Dimensional and anthropometric correlation analyses of buccal fat pad and patient’s personal satisfaction after buccal fat pad excision

AbstractTo evaluate the relationship between the volume and weight of the buccal fat pad removed in the perioperative period and the body mass index (BMI) of patients subjected to buccal fat pad excision as well as to compare the facial dimensions and the level of satisfaction of these patients before and after the surgical procedure. Fifty‐seven patients were included in this study. All were included in the dimensional analysis (weight and volume) and anthropometric correlation (BMI). To evaluate the facial dimensions, 20 volunteers were included and subjected to bilateral measurement at four specific points on the face before and after surgery. Thirty‐five patients were also evaluated regarding the occurrence of peri‐ and post‐operative complications and their level of satisfaction through a specific questionnaire. There was no statistically significant correlation between the dimensions of the buccal fat pad and the anthropometric measurements of the individuals involved in the analysis. There was also no significant alteration of the facial measurements assessed after buccal fat pad excision. The descriptive analysis showed that self‐perception regarding aesthetic need was the predominant factor indicating surgery and that most patients were satisfied with the results, which were close to expected, according to their self‐assessment. Post‐operative complications were limited to trismus and oedema. The weight and volume of the buccal fat pad showed no significant correlation with the anthropometric variables of weight, height and BMI. There were no significant differences in the facial measurements analysed after buccal fat pad excision. The patient satisfaction questionnaire showed that surgical indication was generally motivated by aesthetic factors of individual perception and obtaining results consistent with personal expectations. The frequency of complications arising from buccal fat pad excision included patient discomfort.