Treatment Overview
Malar Reduction Osteotomy is a precise surgical procedure that reshapes the cheekbones by cutting and repositioning the malar bones to reduce their width and prominence. This surgery is designed to create a softer, more balanced facial contour, which aligns well with the aesthetic ideals prevalent in Korea—favoring a smooth, oval, or V-shaped face over broad or protruding cheekbones. It is a permanent solution to prominent cheekbones that cannot be addressed by non-surgical methods.
Purpose & Benefits
The key goals and benefits of malar reduction osteotomy include:
- Permanently reducing the width and projection of the cheekbones
- Achieving a more harmonious and natural facial shape
- Enhancing facial symmetry and balance
- Softening angular or masculine features
- Avoiding visible scars through intraoral incision techniques
- Boosting self-confidence with improved facial aesthetics
Ideal Candidates
Suitable candidates typically are:
- Adults (18+) with prominent or wide cheekbones
- Individuals seeking a softer, less angular facial appearance
- People with good overall health and stable bone development
- Those with realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
- Patients with adequate skin elasticity to adapt to bone changes
Possible Risks & Complications
As with any surgery, there are risks involved:
- Temporary swelling and bruising around the face
- Risk of infection, which is rare with proper care
- Possible temporary numbness or tingling due to nerve irritation
- Asymmetry if bones heal unevenly (uncommon with expert surgeons)
- Discomfort from plates or screws, which is usually minor
- Rare prolonged swelling or healing complications
Choosing experienced Korean surgeons greatly reduces these risks.
Surgical Techniques Used
In Korea, malar reduction osteotomy is performed with the latest technology and refined methods:
- 3D CT imaging to map facial bones and plan precise osteotomy cuts
- Intraoral incisions to avoid external scars
- Use of titanium plates and screws to stabilize repositioned bones
- Minimally invasive techniques to minimize tissue damage
- Optionally combined with jaw or chin contouring for overall facial balance
- Emphasis on maintaining natural ethnic facial features
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery typically includes:
- 1–2 weeks of swelling and bruising
- Resuming light daily activities within 2 weeks
- Avoiding heavy exercise for 4–6 weeks
- Managing pain with prescribed medication
- Maintaining strict oral hygiene to prevent infection
- Follow-ups for suture removal and monitoring bone healing
Korean clinics often provide specialized therapies like LED light treatments and lymphatic massages to accelerate recovery.
Results & Longevity
Results from malar reduction osteotomy are permanent because the bone is physically reshaped. Visible changes typically become apparent within 1–3 months after swelling subsides. The narrower cheekbones give the face a softer, more balanced, and youthful appearance that lasts a lifetime.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is widely regarded as a global leader for malar reduction osteotomy due to its combination of advanced technology, highly skilled surgeons, and patient-centered care. The treatment process includes several detailed steps:
- Initial Consultation and Assessment: Patients undergo a thorough facial analysis, including 3D CT scans and facial simulations. This allows surgeons to create a highly customized surgical plan tailored to each patient’s facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.
- Personalized Surgical Planning: Korean surgeons use the imaging data to plan the exact osteotomy cuts and repositioning strategy. This detailed planning ensures symmetry and minimizes risks. Discussions about additional procedures like jaw or chin contouring may occur to achieve optimal facial harmony.
- Preoperative Preparation: Patients receive comprehensive pre-surgery instructions, including health evaluations, medication guidelines, and lifestyle advice such as smoking cessation. For international patients, Korean clinics provide multilingual coordinators to facilitate communication and smooth preparation.
- Surgical Procedure: Performed under general anesthesia, surgeons make intraoral incisions to access the malar bones without leaving visible scars. The cheekbones are then carefully cut and repositioned inward or reshaped. Titanium plates and screws secure the bones in their new positions. Advanced surgical tools and techniques minimize trauma to surrounding tissues.
- Postoperative Monitoring and Care: After surgery, patients are monitored closely, sometimes overnight. Korean clinics offer specialized aftercare including cold compresses, medication for pain and infection, and dietary recommendations. Regular follow-ups ensure proper healing.
- Recovery Support: Many clinics provide additional therapies such as lymphatic drainage massages, LED light therapy, and scar management treatments to promote quicker and smoother recovery. International patients can access virtual follow-ups and ongoing support.
- Final Results and Follow-up: Swelling generally subsides over weeks, with final facial contour results appearing within 1–3 months. Surgeons ensure the outcomes look natural and meet patient expectations, providing follow-up care as needed.
This meticulous process, combined with Korea’s surgical expertise and cutting-edge technology, explains why Korea remains a top choice for patients worldwide seeking malar reduction osteotomy.
Cost Range
The cost of malar reduction osteotomy in Korea varies based on the clinic’s reputation, the surgeon’s experience, and whether additional procedures are included. On average:
- The price range is approximately ₩8,000,000 to ₩15,000,000 KRW (about $6,000 to $11,500 USD).
- Higher-end clinics and top surgeons may charge towards the upper end due to personalized care and advanced technology.
- The price often includes preoperative imaging, anesthesia, surgery, and some postoperative care.
- Compared to Western countries, Korea offers highly competitive pricing while maintaining world-class surgical standards.
Patients considering surgery are advised to get detailed quotes from multiple clinics and verify what services are included.
Popular Clinics
Some of Korea’s most reputable clinics for malar reduction osteotomy include:
- ID Hospital – Renowned for expert facial bone contouring and personalized treatment plans.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Offers state-of-the-art 3D imaging and natural aesthetic outcomes.
- Grand Plastic Surgery – Known for cutting-edge techniques and high patient satisfaction rates.
- Dr. Jin’s Facial Contouring Clinic – Specializes in ethnic-sensitive facial reshaping with natural results.
These clinics also provide excellent support for international patients, including translation services and comprehensive care packages.
