Treatment Overview
Buccal fat reduction injections are a non-surgical cosmetic procedure aimed at slimming the lower cheeks by reducing excess buccal fat. Overly full cheeks can create a round or “chubby” appearance, which some individuals find disproportionate to the rest of their facial features.
In Korea, buccal fat reduction injections have become increasingly popular as part of facial contouring and sculpting treatments. Using fat-dissolving injectables such as deoxycholic acid, Korean dermatologists target fat deposits in the buccal region to create a more defined, sculpted, and youthful facial appearance. Korean clinics are globally recognized for their precision, artistry, and advanced injection techniques, ensuring safe and natural-looking results without the need for surgery.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary benefits of buccal fat reduction injections include:
- Slimming and contouring the lower cheeks for a defined facial structure
- Enhancing the jawline and overall facial symmetry
- Reducing the roundness of the face to create a more V-shaped appearance
- Offering a non-surgical alternative to invasive buccal fat removal surgery
- Providing gradual, natural-looking results with minimal downtime
Patients benefit aesthetically by achieving a more refined and proportionate facial shape, boosting self-confidence and facial harmony.
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates for buccal fat reduction injections include:
- Individuals with prominent lower cheek fat contributing to a round face
- Patients seeking non-surgical facial contouring
- Those with good skin elasticity and realistic expectations
- Individuals in good overall health
This treatment is generally not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, patients with active infections in the treatment area, or those with allergies to fat-dissolving injectables.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although considered safe, potential side effects may include:
- Temporary swelling, redness, or bruising at the injection sites
- Mild tenderness or discomfort
- Rare asymmetry or uneven fat reduction, which can be corrected with additional sessions
- Very rare complications such as nerve irritation or localized infection
Korean dermatologists minimize risks through precise anatomical mapping, small-volume injections, and use of FDA or KFDA-approved fat-dissolving agents, ensuring safe and effective contouring.
Techniques Used in Korea
Korean clinics are recognized worldwide for their advanced, precise injection techniques and aesthetic expertise in facial slimming. Common approaches include:
- Micro-injection technique – Administers small amounts of fat-dissolving solution for gradual, controlled reduction
- Targeted buccal fat mapping – Ensures even and safe reduction without affecting surrounding tissues
- Combination treatments – Often paired with jawline fillers, cheek contouring, or skin tightening for holistic facial sculpting
- Layered reduction strategy – Gradual fat dissolution allows the patient to monitor changes and maintain natural facial proportions
The goal is a slim, defined lower face while maintaining natural facial expressions and avoiding a hollowed or overtreated appearance.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery is minimal, allowing most patients to return to daily activities immediately. Recommended aftercare in Korean clinics includes:
- Avoid massaging or pressing the cheeks for 24–48 hours
- Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling or bruising
- Avoid strenuous exercise or alcohol for 1–2 days
- Follow up with the dermatologist for assessment and additional sessions if needed
Mild swelling, redness, or tenderness is normal and usually resolves within a few days.
Results & Longevity
Results from buccal fat reduction injections appear gradually over 2–6 weeks, as the fat-dissolving solution takes effect. Depending on the patient’s metabolism and number of sessions, results are typically long-lasting, with many patients enjoying a permanently slimmer cheek contour after multiple sessions.
Patients can expect a more defined jawline, reduced cheek fullness, and a natural, sculpted lower face, enhancing overall facial balance.
Treatment Process in Korea
The procedure typically includes:
- Consultation – Assessment of cheek fat volume and facial proportions
- Marking injection sites – Ensures precise and symmetrical treatment
- Application of numbing cream – Enhances comfort during injections
- Fat-dissolving injections – Small doses carefully administered to targeted buccal fat areas
- Follow-up evaluation – Ensures even results and plans additional sessions if necessary
- Aftercare guidance – Instructions to optimize recovery and results
Korean clinics are globally recognized for precision, artistry, and patient-focused care, making them a top destination for non-surgical facial slimming.
Cost of Buccal Fat Reduction Injections in Korea
Costs vary depending on the number of sessions, filler type, and clinic reputation:
- Standard session: 400,000 – 900,000 KRW (USD $300 – $675)
- Premium clinics or multiple sessions: 900,000 – 1,500,000 KRW (USD $675 – $1,125)
Top Clinics in Korea
- Banobagi Dermatology – Expert in non-surgical facial slimming and buccal fat reduction
- ID Dermatology Clinic – Specializes in precise facial contouring
- Oracle Dermatology Clinic – Advanced techniques for natural and safe results
- Cinderella Plastic Surgery & Dermatology – Integrates injectable and filler techniques for holistic facial sculpting
- REGEN Dermatology Clinic – Skilled injectors delivering refined, natural outcomes
