Treatment Overview
Midface slimming surgery targets the fat and soft tissue in the central cheek region, and may include buccal fat removal, facial liposuction, or malar (cheekbone) contouring, depending on the patient’s facial structure. The goal is to eliminate the “baby face” or overly full cheek appearance and create a more refined, elegant profile.
In Korea, this surgery is often tailored to maintain volume where needed — especially in the under-eye area — while slimming the bulkier parts of the cheeks for a balanced facial appearance.
Purpose & Benefits
The main purpose of midface slimming surgery is to reduce central facial fullness and enhance definition. Key benefits include:
- Reduction of round or puffy cheeks
- More defined cheek contours and under-eye transition
- Smoother midface profile without hollowness
- Improved V-line shape from top to bottom
- A youthful but refined appearance
Unlike standard facial slimming procedures, midface surgery focuses on the subtle shaping of facial depth and structure, not just the jawline or lower face.
Ideal Candidates
You may be a good candidate for midface slimming surgery in Korea if you:
- Have a naturally full or heavy midface region
- Experience volume in the cheeks that gives a “chubby” or less defined appearance
- Are at a stable weight but still have prominent cheek fat
- Desire a long-lasting, sculpted look rather than temporary filler or botox results
- Are in good general health and have realistic expectations
This surgery is popular among individuals in their 20s to 40s, especially those with strong bone structure beneath excess soft tissue.
Possible Risks & Complications
As with any surgery, there are some risks, although they are minimized in Korea thanks to skilled techniques and modern equipment. Risks may include:
- Swelling and bruising (common and temporary)
- Mild asymmetry or irregular contour (rare)
- Numbness or tightness in the cheek area
- Over-reduction of volume, leading to a hollow or aged appearance (minimized by conservative Korean techniques)
- Infection (rare with intraoral incisions and proper aftercare)
Korean surgeons prioritize volume preservation and harmony, so complications related to over-slimming are rare.
Surgical Techniques Used
Midface slimming in Korea is often a multi-technique approach, which may include:
- Buccal Fat Removal: Through an incision inside the mouth, deep fat pads are partially removed from the lower cheeks.
- Facial Liposuction: Very fine cannulas are used to remove excess surface fat, sculpting the area between the cheekbone and jawline.
- Zygoma Reduction (if needed): In cases of wide or protruding cheekbones, bone contouring may be included to narrow the midface.
- Midface Lifting or Fat Repositioning: When necessary, fat is repositioned to prevent volume loss or under-eye hollowing.
Korea’s emphasis on 3D facial balance ensures that each case is uniquely designed based on bone structure, fat volume, and skin elasticity.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery from midface slimming surgery varies by technique but generally involves:
- Mild to moderate swelling for 1–2 weeks
- Return to work or daily activities in 3–5 days (for fat removal/lipo-only cases)
- Soft diet for 5–7 days if intraoral incisions are used
- Avoidance of strenuous activity and facial massage for at least 2 weeks
- Full results visible in 1–3 months as swelling resolves and tissues settle
Korean clinics provide detailed aftercare instructions, medications, and follow-up appointments to support a smooth healing process.
Results & Longevity
Results from midface slimming surgery in Korea are:
- Subtle yet noticeable, with improved facial angles
- Long-lasting, especially when fat is permanently removed or repositioned
- Designed to maintain youthful facial volume, avoiding an aged or gaunt look
- Harmonious, fitting naturally with the rest of the face
Because of the personalized and conservative approach, patients can expect natural results that age well over time.
Treatment Process in Korea
Here’s what the typical treatment journey looks like for midface slimming in Korea:
- Initial Consultation
Includes 3D imaging, facial analysis, and goal setting. - Customized Surgical Plan
Surgeons design a tailored strategy, possibly combining fat removal, lifting, or bone work. - Surgery Day
Performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on complexity. - Recovery Support
Clinics provide aftercare kits, medications, and post-op monitoring. - International Services
Many clinics offer English-speaking coordinators, airport transfers, hotel recommendations, and even virtual post-op follow-ups for global patients.
Korea is known for its patient-centered experience, especially in facial contouring procedures.
Cost Range
The cost of midface slimming surgery in Korea depends on the methods used:
- Buccal Fat Removal Only: $1,800 – $3,500 USD
- Facial Liposuction: $2,000 – $4,000 USD
- Zygoma Reduction (if included): $5,000 – $7,500 USD
- Combined Slimming Procedures: $6,000 – $10,000+ USD
Costs generally include consultation, surgery, anesthesia, post-op care, and follow-up appointments. Despite the high quality of care, Korea remains competitively priced compared to the U.S., Japan, or Europe.
Popular Clinics for Midface Slimming in Korea
ID Hospital
Specialists in facial bone and soft tissue contouring, known for natural midface transformations.
Banobagi Plastic Surgery
Offers highly customized facial slimming and reshaping procedures with advanced simulation tools.
GNG Hospital
Combines surgical and non-surgical facial contouring with strong international support services.
NANA Plastic Surgery
Renowned for youthful, balanced results in cheek and midface procedures.
VIEW Plastic Surgery
Focused on V-line and midface harmony, offering precise liposuction and lifting techniques.
