Treatment Overview
Submalar Contouring is a cosmetic procedure that reduces or reshapes the submalar (lower cheek) region to create a slimmer, more defined midface. This procedure addresses prominent or wide cheeks, enhancing overall facial harmony and giving a more sculpted, youthful appearance.
In Korea, submalar contouring is popular for achieving V-line or oval facial aesthetics, combining precision bone or soft tissue modification techniques with natural-looking results.
Purpose & Benefits
- Reduces prominence in the lower cheek area
- Slims the midface and enhances facial contour
- Improves facial symmetry and proportion
- Creates a more youthful and balanced appearance
- Can be combined with jawline contouring, Bichectomy, or chin augmentation for optimal results
- Provides permanent or long-lasting changes depending on surgical technique
Ideal Candidates
- Individuals with full, wide, or prominent lower cheeks
- Adults seeking a slimmer midface or V-line contour
- Patients with good overall health and realistic expectations
- Those aiming for permanent or significant contouring results
- Candidates suitable for surgical or minimally invasive procedures
Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary swelling, bruising, or tenderness
- Minor asymmetry (can sometimes be corrected)
- Temporary numbness or tingling in the midface area
- Infection or bleeding (rare with proper care)
- Rare risk of visible scarring depending on incision location
Techniques Used
- Bone Contouring Osteotomy – Surgical reduction of submalar bones for a slimmer midface
- Buccal Fat Reduction (Bichectomy) – Removal of excess fat in the submalar region
- Soft Tissue Sculpting – Minimally invasive techniques to reshape or reposition tissue
- 3D Surgical Planning – Ensures symmetry and natural-looking results
- Korean Expertise – Surgeons emphasize proportional midface contours and subtle, natural aesthetics
Recovery & Aftercare
- Swelling and bruising peak within 2–3 days and gradually subside over 2–4 weeks
- Soft diet and limited facial movement recommended for 1–2 weeks
- Avoid strenuous activity or contact sports for 4–6 weeks
- Follow-up visits to monitor healing, symmetry, and patient satisfaction
- Maintain oral hygiene if intraoral incisions are used
Results & Longevity
- Permanent reduction of prominent lower cheeks
- Slimmer, more defined midface and enhanced facial harmony
- Natural-looking results with improved symmetry
- Long-term outcomes with proper care and maintenance
- Can be combined with other facial contouring procedures for a complete transformation
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is a leading destination for Submalar Contouring due to advanced surgical techniques, precise planning, and experience with Asian facial aesthetics.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Consultation & Facial Analysis – Assess cheek structure, midface volume, and desired outcome.
- 3D Imaging & Surgical Planning – Customized plan for bone or fat reduction with balanced proportions.
- Procedure – Osteotomy, Bichectomy, or soft tissue sculpting performed under general anesthesia or sedation.
- Post-Procedure Care – Swelling and discomfort managed; sutures placed inside the mouth for minimal scarring.
- Follow-Up Evaluation – Monitor healing, symmetry, and final midface contour.
Why Korea is a Top Destination:
- Highly skilled surgeons specialized in V-line and midface contouring
- Advanced 3D planning and minimally invasive techniques
- Focus on natural, proportional results without visible scarring
- Integration with other facial procedures for a harmonious appearance
- High safety and hygiene standards with competitive pricing
Cost Range in Korea
The Submalar Contouring procedure typically costs ₩4,000,000 – ₩12,000,000 KRW (approx. $3,000 – $8,900 USD) depending on:
- Technique used (bone reduction, fat removal, or soft tissue sculpting)
- Complexity and extent of the procedure
- Clinic reputation and surgeon expertise
- Combination with other facial contouring procedures
Global Price Comparison:
- USA & Europe: $5,000 – $15,000
- Japan: $4,500 – $12,000
- Korea: $3,000 – $8,900 (often includes pre-op planning, post-op care, and follow-up)
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Expert in midface and V-line contouring
- ID Hospital – Advanced 3D planning for precise submalar reshaping
- View Plastic Surgery Clinic – Offers combined facial contouring for natural results
- Regen Plastic Surgery – Specializes in minimally invasive midface procedures
- JW Plastic Surgery – Customized plans for a balanced and harmonious midface
