Buccal fat pad

Anatomical structure in the human cheek

The buccal fat pad contributes to the fullness of the cheeks.

The buccal fat pad is a rounded mass of adipose tissue located in the cheek area of the human face. It plays a significant role in facial contour and aesthetics, as well as in various physiological functions.

Anatomy

The buccal fat pad is situated between the buccinator muscle and several superficial muscles of the face, including the masseter muscle and the zygomaticus major. It is encapsulated by a thin fibrous membrane and is divided into three lobes: anterior, intermediate, and posterior.

Anterior Lobe

The anterior lobe of the buccal fat pad is located near the corner of the mouth and is the smallest of the three lobes. It is closely associated with the orbicularis oris muscle.

Intermediate Lobe

The intermediate lobe is the largest portion of the buccal fat pad and is situated in the central cheek area. It provides the majority of the volume that contributes to the fullness of the cheeks.

Posterior Lobe

The posterior lobe extends towards the temporal fossa and is located near the pterygoid muscles. It is involved in the cushioning of the temporomandibular joint during mastication.

Function

The buccal fat pad serves several functions:

• Facial Contour: It provides fullness to the cheeks, contributing to the overall shape and contour of the face.
• Protection: It acts as a cushion to protect facial muscles and nerves during mastication and other facial movements.
• Facilitation of Sucking and Chewing: In infants, the buccal fat pad is particularly prominent and aids in sucking and chewing.

Clinical Significance

The buccal fat pad is often considered in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Reduction of the buccal fat pad, known as buccal fat removal, is a procedure performed to create a more contoured facial appearance. Additionally, the buccal fat pad can be used in reconstructive surgery to repair oral defects or as a graft in various surgical procedures.

Related pages

• Facial anatomy
• Adipose tissue
• Cosmetic surgery
• Mastication

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  Extracted buccal fat
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  Diagram of buccal fat