buccal fat pad

Full Definition

The buccal fat pad, also known as Bichat's fat pad, is a well-vascularized adipose tissue located in the masticator space between the buccinator and masseter muscles. This structure serves as an excellent source of tissue for reconstruction of oral cavity defects, maxillary sinus communications, and palatal perforations. The buccal fat pad can be mobilized as a pedicled flap while maintaining its blood supply from the facial and maxillary arteries, providing reliable coverage for moderate-sized defects in oral and maxillofacial reconstruction.

In Context

• "The buccal fat pad was mobilized to close the oroantral communication following molar extraction." — Oral surgery report
• "Buccal fat pad reconstruction provided excellent functional and aesthetic outcomes for the palatal defect." — Reconstructive surgery case study