Normal vs significant asymmetry
Some asymmetry is universal: 95% of human faces are asymmetric to some measurable degree. Causes include sleeping position habits, dominant chewing side, dental occlusion, prior facial fractures, scoliosis, and pure genetic variation.
Asymmetry only becomes a candidate for surgical correction when it is:
- Clearly visible without close inspection
- Consistent across multiple photographs and angles
- Located in the buccal fat region (mid-cheek) rather than in the bone or muscle
- Causing the patient genuine distress, not just minor cosmetic interest
How surgical rebalancing works
Asymmetric buccal fat removal is the standard intraoral procedure performed asymmetrically — more fat removed from the larger side, less from the smaller side (or none at all). The goal is parity rather than maximum slimming.
Volumes are smaller than typical bilateral cases — often 1–2 grams from the larger side and 0 from the smaller side, or 1.5 grams and 0.5 grams. The surgical planning is done from precise pre-operative photographs and measurements.
Limits of surgical correction
Buccal fat removal cannot correct:
- Bone asymmetry (mandibular or maxillary asymmetry)
- Muscle asymmetry (asymmetric masseter or other facial muscles)
- Dental occlusion asymmetry (which can drive facial muscle asymmetry)
- Subcutaneous fat asymmetry (which is usually weight-distribution related)
A thorough consultation distinguishes which type of asymmetry is present. Surgical correction is offered only when buccal fat is the dominant contributor.
Not sure if you're a candidate?
Buccal fat pad removal is the right choice only for the right face. Send 3 facial photos (front, profile, three-quarter) and Doç. Dr. Erdal will give you an honest, no-pressure suitability assessment before you decide anything.
Ready to discuss buccal fat removal?
Schedule a free WhatsApp consultation with Doç. Dr. Erdal. Send a few facial photos and your questions — typical response within 2 hours during business hours.