Cheekbone Reduction
in Korea
It’s not just about shaving the bone.
It is a 3D structural rotation to slim the mid-face without sagging.
It’s not just about shaving the bone.
It is a 3D structural rotation to slim the mid-face without sagging.
Cheekbone Reduction (Zygoma Reduction) targets the Zygomatic Arch (side width) and the Zygomatic Body (45° protrusion) to smooth the harsh mid-facial line.
Modern Korean techniques utilize "3D Rotation" and "High-L Osteotomy." Instead of simply grinding the bone (which flattens the face), the bone is cut, pushed inward, and securely fixed.
The goal is to reduce facial width while maintaining a youthful front volume and preventing soft tissue descent (sagging).
Simply shaving bone provides minimal results. The arch must be fractured and rotated inward to actually reduce facial width.
Using titanium plates/screws prevents "non-union" (bone gaps) and is crucial for preventing cheek droop.
Techniques like "High-L" cuts help pull the muscle upward during fixation to minimize the risk of sagging.
Identify if your wide face is caused by bone, fat, or muscle.
Cheekbone reduction requires precise fixation to support the skin.
Get a medical assessment of your skin elasticity and bone structure.
Korean surgeons favor the "High-L" and "3D Rotation" methods for maximum reduction with safety.
The cut is made higher up on the zygomatic body (forming an 'L' shape). This maximizes the reduction of the 45° cheekbone width compared to traditional low cuts.
The rear part of the cheekbone (near the ear) is cut via a tiny incision in the sideburn hairline. The arch is pushed inward and firmly fixed.
We strongly advocate for Rigid Fixation using titanium plates. "Quick" or "Non-fixation" methods rely on natural healing but carry higher risks of bone displacement (non-union) and cheek sagging later.
Essential diagnostics for Zygoma Reduction.
| Option | Best For | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Cheekbone Reduction | True skeletal width & protrusion | Surgical recovery; risk of sagging if poor technique |
| Fat Grafting (Temples) | Sunken temples making cheekbones look big | Adds volume to face (face gets bigger); temporary |
| Quick/Mini Zygoma | Very minor side protrusion | Often non-fixed (risk of movement); limited results |
| Estimated Cost | $5,000 ~ $9,000 | |
* Cost varies based on method (High-L vs Standard), fixation type, and anesthesia fees.
Zygoma reduction generally has less swelling than jaw surgery.
Usually 1 night hospitalization. Compression garment is key.
Sideburn stitches removed. Intraoral stitches dissolve. Major swelling starts to subside.
Bruising mostly gone. Minor swelling remains but looks like "chubby cheeks."
Bones are fusing. Avoid hard chewing (nuts, jerky) until this point.
Swelling fully gone. Final facial width and contour revealed.
Understanding specific risks for Cheekbone surgery.
The most common concern. Since bone volume decreases, skin may droop. Proper upward fixation and good skin elasticity are required.
If the bone is not fixed properly, it may not heal together. This is why we prioritize rigid plate fixation.
The infraorbital nerve runs near the cheekbone. Temporary numbness in the upper lip/cheek area is common but usually resolves.
Faces are naturally asymmetrical. Surgery aims for balance, but perfect mathematical symmetry is impossible.
Common questions, answered clearly.
Real operating price list (reference). Currency: USD. Reference ranges. Final quotation depends on anatomy, technique, revision status, anesthesia type, and clinic policy.
| Item | Price (USD) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Zygoma Reduction (Standard) — Intraoral incision + fixation; complexity varies by anatomy. | $8,500–14,000 | Reference ranges. Final quotation depends on anatomy, technique, revision status, anesthesia type, and clinic policy. |
| 3‑D Zygoma Reduction — For prominent lateral + anterior projection. | $10,000–16,500 | Reference ranges. Final quotation depends on anatomy, technique, revision status, anesthesia type, and clinic policy. |
| Revision Cheekbone — Scar tissue/plate revision can increase cost. | $12,000–22,000 | Reference ranges. Final quotation depends on anatomy, technique, revision status, anesthesia type, and clinic policy. |
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