Plastic Surgeon Warns Margot Robbie's Rumored Buccal Fat Removal Could Cause 'Premature Aging'

Experts caution the popular cosmetic procedure may not be suitable for all patients.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 5:04am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a sculpted, angular cheekbone and jawline, captured in dramatic high-contrast studio lighting to create a high-fashion, glamorous aesthetic.As speculation swirls around Margot Robbie's changing facial features, experts warn that aggressive buccal fat removal can lead to a prematurely aged look.NYC Today

Actress Margot Robbie has faced speculation that she has undergone buccal fat removal, a cosmetic procedure that reduces the fat pad in the lower cheeks to create a more sculpted facial appearance. However, a prominent New York plastic surgeon warns that the procedure can lead to a prematurely aged look, especially in younger patients, and should be used with restraint.

Why it matters

Buccal fat removal has become an increasingly popular procedure among celebrities, but experts say it is often overused and can have long-term negative effects on facial appearance. As more people consider the surgery, it's important to understand the potential risks.

The details

Buccal fat removal involves the surgical reduction of the buccal fat pad, which sits deep within the lower cheeks. This can create a more sculpted, defined look under the cheekbones. However, Dr. Ramtin Kassir, a triple board-certified plastic surgeon, says the procedure is often 'overdone' and may not be suitable for all patients, particularly younger individuals with naturally thinner faces. He explains that once the fat is removed, it does not regenerate, which can lead to a hollow, gaunt appearance over time as natural facial fat diminishes with age.

  • In March 2026, Margot Robbie attended the Chanel Fall fashion show in Paris with a noticeably slimmer facial appearance.
  • In August 2025, Margot Robbie's face appeared fuller compared to her recent Paris Fashion Week look.

The players

Dr. Ramtin Kassir

A triple board-certified celebrity plastic surgeon based in New York.

Margot Robbie

An actress who has faced speculation about undergoing buccal fat removal.

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What they’re saying

“From looking at recent photos, there is no clear evidence that Margot Robbie has undergone buccal fat removal. Her face still shows natural midface volume and a smooth transition under the cheekbone, which is not typically seen when the procedure has been performed aggressively.”

— Dr. Ramtin Kassir, Plastic Surgeon

“Buccal fat removal gained popularity because it creates a sharper, more sculpted facial contour. However, it has also become one of the most overdone procedures in aesthetic surgery in recent years.”

— Dr. Ramtin Kassir, Plastic Surgeon

“In carefully selected patients, typically those with a heavier lower face or more pronounced fullness, it can be a useful adjunct. However, in younger or naturally thinner patients, we generally advise against it.”

— Dr. Ramtin Kassir, Plastic Surgeon

What’s next

As more people consider buccal fat removal, experts say it's crucial to carefully evaluate each patient's individual facial structure and age to determine if the procedure is appropriate, and to use restraint to avoid over-resection that could lead to premature aging.

The takeaway

Buccal fat removal has become a popular cosmetic procedure, but it is often overused and may not be suitable for all patients, particularly younger individuals with naturally thinner faces. Experts caution that the procedure can lead to a prematurely aged appearance over time as natural facial fat diminishes.