In addition to her major surgical specialties, Dr. Susan Tan offers a range of in-office adjunctive procedures — precise, physician-performed treatments for specific cosmetic concerns of the face. Every adjunctive procedure is performed by Dr. Tan personally, with the same standard of anatomical precision and aesthetic judgment that governs her major surgical work.
The following procedures are performed in-office by Dr. Tan personally — not delegated to a nurse or aesthetic provider. They address specific cosmetic concerns of the face that do not require the full scope of a major surgical procedure, but still benefit from the precision and anatomical knowledge of a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon.
Each procedure begins with a consultation to assess your specific concern and confirm that the approach is appropriate. Dr. Tan will be honest about what is achievable and what alternative approaches might better serve your goals.
Surgical removal of facial moles — both for cosmetic improvement and, when indicated, for pathological evaluation. Dr. Tan uses precise excision techniques to minimize scarring, placing incisions along natural facial lines where possible. Every removed mole is sent for pathological analysis as standard of care. Results are immediate. Scar management guidance is provided post-operatively.
Surgical improvement of existing facial scars — from prior surgery, trauma, or acne. Techniques include excision, geometric line closure, Z-plasty, and W-plasty depending on the scar's characteristics. Dr. Tan evaluates each scar's position, texture, width, and tissue quality to determine the approach most likely to produce meaningful improvement. Realistic expectations are discussed thoroughly at consultation.
Surgical reduction of the buccal fat pads — the fat deposits in the lower cheek area responsible for a rounded, full facial appearance. A small incision inside the mouth allows Dr. Tan to access and partially remove the buccal fat, creating a slimmer, more sculpted lower face. Appropriate for patients who desire more facial angularity. Dr. Tan counsels patients carefully on long-term results — as faces naturally deflate with age, buccal fat removal should be approached conservatively.
Surgical creation of a natural-looking cheek dimple — a popular procedure that creates the appearance of a dimple where one does not naturally exist. Performed under local anesthesia through a small incision inside the mouth. The dimple is visible initially at rest and becomes more natural-looking over time — most prominent when smiling. A detailed consultation ensures the patient understands the expected appearance and the permanence of the result.
All adjunctive procedures at Hawaii Facial Plastic Surgery are performed by Dr. Tan personally — under local anesthesia, in-office, as outpatient procedures. Recovery is significantly shorter than major surgical procedures. Most patients return to normal activities within days to one week.
Every procedure begins with a thorough consultation. Dr. Tan will assess your specific concern, explain the technique, show you what to expect from the result, and discuss the limitations honestly. She will also advise whether a different approach — surgical or non-surgical — might better serve your goals.
Every removed tissue specimen (mole, cyst, or excised skin) is sent for pathological analysis as standard of care. Results of pathology are communicated to you promptly.
Request a ConsultationReturn to normal activities same or next day. Scar management begins at 2 weeks post-op.
Sutures removed at 5–7 days. Final scar maturation takes 6–12 months.
Liquid diet for 1–2 days. Most patients return to work within 3–5 days. Final result visible at 3–6 months.
Mild swelling for 1–2 weeks. Dimple initially visible at rest — becomes more natural over several months.
Common questions about in-office adjunctive facial procedures with Dr. Tan.
Begin with a consultation — Dr. Tan will assess your specific concern and tell you honestly which approach will produce the best result for your face.