Treatment Overview
High Cheekbone Reduction, also called Zygoma Reduction Surgery, is a specialized facial contouring procedure aimed at reducing the prominence of high, protruding cheekbones. In Korea, this surgery has been refined using 3D simulation, minimal-scar approaches, and advanced bone fixation methods to achieve a balanced, softer facial contour. Korean surgeons are recognized worldwide for their precision, ability to preserve natural expressions, and skill in creating harmonious proportions from all angles.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purposes of high cheekbone reduction are:
- Reduce excessive lateral projection of the cheekbones.
- Create a smoother, more oval facial outline.
- Balance the face from frontal, 45-degree, and side views.
- Correct asymmetry between the left and right cheekbones.
Key Benefits in Korea:
- Minimal visible scarring with hidden incisions.
- Permanent results with stable bone fixation.
- Reduced swelling and faster recovery compared to older methods.
- More youthful, gentle facial appearance without losing natural definition.
Ideal Candidates
You may be a good candidate if:
- Your cheekbones are overly high or wide, making your face appear angular.
- You want a more feminine or softer facial contour.
- You have asymmetry in cheekbone height or projection.
- You are healthy, non-smoking, and have realistic expectations.
- You are seeking an improvement in both the front and side profile.
Possible Risks & Complications
While Korean clinics maintain high safety standards, possible risks include:
- Swelling and bruising (temporary).
- Numbness in the cheek or upper lip (usually resolves in weeks).
- Infection (rare with proper care).
- Slight asymmetry if post-surgical instructions are not followed.
- Delayed bone healing in rare cases.
Surgical Techniques Used
Korean surgeons use precise osteotomy techniques to cut, reposition, and fix the zygomatic bone.
Common methods include:
- L-Shaped Osteotomy: Allows controlled repositioning for optimal contour.
- Arch Reduction: Reduces width from the side view.
- Endoscopic-Assisted Surgery: Minimizes tissue trauma and scarring.
- 3D Surgical Simulation: Ensures accurate pre-surgical planning.
- Titanium Plate Fixation: Provides stable, permanent results.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Hospital Stay: Usually 1 day or same-day discharge.
- Initial Recovery: Swelling peaks in 2–3 days, improves within 1–2 weeks.
- Full Recovery: 4–6 weeks for bone healing; final results visible after 3 months.
- Aftercare Recommendations:
- Avoid chewing hard foods for 2–3 weeks.
- Maintain oral hygiene to prevent infection.
- Use cold compresses to reduce swelling.
- Attend follow-up checkups and imaging scans.
Results & Longevity
- Results Timeline: Noticeable improvement immediately; refined contour after 1–3 months.
- Longevity: Permanent, as bone structure is physically altered.
- Natural Appearance: Maintains normal facial movement and expressions.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Facial Analysis
- 3D CT scan and simulation to analyze cheekbone position and determine reduction plan.
- Detailed discussion about incision placement and possible combined procedures.
- Pre-Surgery Preparation
- Medical exams, blood tests, and anesthesia evaluation.
- Review of surgery goals and realistic outcome expectations.
- Surgery Day
- Performed under general anesthesia.
- Incisions made inside the mouth and near the sideburn area to avoid visible scars.
- Cheekbone cut and repositioned using osteotomy and secured with titanium plates.
- Immediate Post-Op Care
- Ice packs, antibiotics, and pain management.
- Swelling control and oral care instructions provided.
- Follow-Up Visits
- 1 week: Suture removal (if any external incisions were made).
- 1 month: X-ray or CT check to ensure proper bone healing.
- 3 months: Final results assessment.
Why Korea is a Top Destination for High Cheekbone Reduction:
- Advanced Techniques: 3D simulation, endoscopic-assisted bone cutting, and ultrasonic tools.
- Global Reputation: Surgeons frequently operate on international patients seeking precision contouring.
- Minimal Scarring & Faster Recovery: Thanks to refined approaches and careful incision placement.
Cost Range
The cost for High Cheekbone Reduction in Korea usually ranges from ₩7,000,000 – ₩13,500,000 KRW (approx. USD 5,400 – 10,500).
Factors affecting cost:
- Surgeon’s expertise and clinic location.
- Use of advanced 3D imaging technology.
- Complexity of the case (asymmetry correction, combined contouring).
- Inclusion of other surgeries (V-line, chin surgery, etc.).
Cost Breakdown Example:
- Consultation & Imaging: ₩200,000 – ₩400,000 KRW
- Surgical Fee: ₩6,000,000 – ₩11,500,000 KRW
- Anesthesia & Hospital Care: ₩800,000 – ₩1,200,000 KRW
- Post-Op Follow-Up & Medication: ₩200,000 – ₩400,000 KRW
Popular Clinics in Korea
- ID Hospital – Renowned for facial bone contouring and international patient care.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Precision surgeries with 3D planning.
- View Plastic Surgery – Specializes in minimal-incision cheekbone reduction.
- DA Plastic Surgery – Known for advanced zygoma and facial contouring.
- JW Plastic Surgery – Offers highly customized facial harmony procedures.
