Medical Tourism Blog
Flat Face Solutions: Facial Implant Procedures in Korea for Enhanced Facial Contours
Table of contents
- Facial Implants: A Detailed Overview
- Best Clinics in Korea for Flat Face
- Navigating Facial Implant Procedures in South Korea
- Costs of Facial Implants: South Korea vs. Global Destinations
- Patient Experiences: Addressing “Flat Face” with Facial Implants
- Conclusion
- References
Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!
A “flat face” typically describes a lack of projection in the midface area, including the orbits, maxilla, and cheekbones. This can result in a concave profile or a “hollow” look. A youthful midface is usually marked by a gentle, singular convexity aligning with the lower eyelid, but aging brings changes: sun exposure, gravity, loss of facial fat, and loosening of connective tissue all play a role. These factors drive volume loss and downward shifting of cheek fat pads, creating a gaunt appearance and what’s often called “double convexity.”
Some cases aren’t just about aging. Developmental or congenital conditions, such as Antley-Bixler syndrome, Crouzon syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome, or Stickler syndrome—often classed under midfacial hypoplasia—can also lead to a flat facial profile. These may be associated with features like a hypoplastic nasal bone or a short maxilla.
Medical Terminology and Common Pseudonyms
Patients might use “flat face” when searching for information, but doctors prefer terms like “midface hypoplasia,” which refers to decreased cell count and smaller midface size, often resulting in a concave appearance. Another rare but related term is “Flat face-microstomia-ear anomaly syndrome,” which describes a unique genetic condition with elongated, flattened midface features.
Understanding these medical terms can help patients communicate with healthcare professionals and clarify whether their concerns are aesthetic or part of a larger health issue. A thorough consultation is always important for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Table 1: Common Pseudonyms for "Flat Face" / Midface Hypoplasia
| Condition/Description | Synonyms |
|---|---|
| Flat Face-Microstomia-Ear Anomaly Syndrome | Blepharophimosis-telecanthus-microstomia syndrome, Simosa-Penchaszadeh-Bustos syndrome, Simosa craniofacial syndrome |
| Midface Hypoplasia | Hypoplastic midface, Mid-face hypoplasia, Midface retrusion, Midfacial hypoplasia |
Facial Implants: A Detailed Overview
What Are Facial Implants? (Purpose and Materials)
Facial implants are custom-shaped devices, usually made of medical-grade silicone or polyethylene, that add volume and definition to facial features. Their strength is in their permanence, offering durable solutions compared to temporary fillers. Because they are available in various shapes and sizes, implants can be tailored for seamless integration with each patient’s facial anatomy.
Common Materials
Choosing the right implant material is crucial because each has long-term implications:
- Silicone (Polysiloxane): This smooth, flexible option is not integrated into host tissue but becomes encapsulated by a fibrous membrane, which makes removal simpler if ever needed. However, the lack of integration can lead to complications like implant shifting, seromas, or bone resorption.
- Polyethylene (Porous Polyethylene, e.g., Medpor): This porous material encourages tissue ingrowth for enhanced stability, making it less likely to shift over time. Its drawback is the difficulty of removal, should that ever become necessary.
- Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, e.g., Gore-Tex): Both strong and soft, ePTFE allows for limited tissue ingrowth, offering stability but retaining the option for easier removal than more aggressively integrated materials.
Your choice will depend on your priorities for permanence, stability, and the ease of future revisions—a conversation best had with an experienced surgeon.
Table 2: Comparison of Facial Implant Materials (Silicone vs. Polyethylene)
| Feature | Silicone (Polysiloxane) | Polyethylene (Porous Polyethylene / Medpor) |
|---|---|---|
| Material Type | Polysiloxane | Porous Polyethylene (Medpor) |
| Tissue Interaction | Encapsulated; not incorporated | Supports tissue ingrowth; incorporated |
| Ease of Removal | Simple | Much more difficult |
| Stability/Fixation | Can migrate | Stable, screw-fixated |
| Common Complications | Seroma, migration, bone resorption | Prominence (3.9%) |
| Infection Rate | 1.6% - 2.2% | 0.7% - 1.2% |
Types of Facial Implants for Midface Augmentation
Key facial implants for enhancing midface projection include:
- Cheek Implants (Malar Implants): Restore fullness and “ogee curve” for a youthful look.
- Chin Implants (Mentoplasty or Genioplasty): Balance facial profile, especially if the chin is recessed.
- Jaw Implants: Define and widen the jaw for a structured, balanced lower face.
- Paranasal Implants: Enhance bone structure around the nose and create a desirable convex shape in the lower midface.
The Surgical Procedure: What to Expect
The surgical journey starts with a consultation and ends with recovery:
- Consultation and Planning: You’ll review your medical history and goals with a surgeon—tech like 3D imaging may be used to preview outcomes.
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia is most common, but some cases may only require local anesthesia with sedation.
- Incision Sites: Incisions are strategically hidden—inside the mouth or along the lower eyelid for cheek implants, inside or below the chin for chin implants, and similarly placed for jaw implants. Existing incisions from other facial surgeries may be reused.
- Implant Placement: Surgeons create a precise pocket for the implant to ensure stability and the desired appearance.
- Closure: Incisions are closed with dissolvable or traditional sutures, followed by bandages to reduce swelling.
- Combined Procedures: Implants are often placed along with other facial surgeries for holistic enhancement.
Recovery and Post-Operative Care
Recovery is essential for great results:
-
Immediate Post-Op: Expect soreness, swelling, and minor bruising—usually managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
-
Timeline: Light activities can resume in 1–2 weeks, with swelling resolving over 6–12 weeks.
-
Recovery Tips:
- Use cool compresses to reduce swelling without applying direct pressure.
- Follow all medication instructions and avoid blood thinners unless told otherwise.
- Sleep with your head elevated.
- Stick to a soft diet if you have oral incisions.
- Practice gentle oral hygiene and use mouthwash if recommended.
- Avoid strenuous activities and direct pressure to the face during recovery.
- Protect your face from sun and wait for the all-clear before applying makeup.
- Follow bathing instructions carefully.
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Risks and Complications: As with any surgery, risk exists—most notably for infection, implant shifting, asymmetry, bone resorption (especially with silicone), numbness, and dissatisfaction with aesthetics. Smoking, uncontrolled medical conditions, or poor hygiene can increase these risks.
Successful outcomes rely on both skilled surgical execution and the patient’s diligent adherence to aftercare instructions.
Best Clinics in Korea for Flat Face
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for flat face:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| THEPLUS Plastic Surgery | For patients seeking the most refined solution to a flat facial profile in Korea, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery offers unmatched expertise, technology, and safety under the leadership of Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, an award-winning researcher in 3D implants and a leading authority in rhinoplasty and facial contouring. Their philosophy—balancing function and beauty while harmonizing the nose, midface, and chin—translates into highly personalized plans that correct under-projection through advanced rhinoplasty, facial implants, cheekbone reshaping, V-line surgery, and targeted fat grafting. Dr. Kim’s research-driven mastery of 3D implant design enables precise, natural augmentation where flatness most often occurs, while Dr. Jeong’s global education and revision expertise ensure durable, functional outcomes. Backed by a team with over a decade of experience, active memberships in international societies, and prolific academic contributions—including Dr. Kim’s reference text Rebuilding Nose—the clinic maintains world-class standards from consultation to surgery and post-operative skincare across its four specialized floors in Garosu-gil, Gangnam. With surgeons who actively teach peers worldwide and continuously refine techniques through research and symposiums, THEPLUS delivers the nuanced projection, balance, and long-lasting natural results that flat face patients seek. | Advanced rhinoplasty; facial implants; cheekbone reshaping; V-line surgery; targeted fat grafting; 3D implant design; durable, functional outcomes; four floors in Garosu-gil, Gangnam |
| Made Young Plastic Surgery Website | Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul is a premium center dedicated to facial and anti-aging excellence, uniting verified expertise with a safety-first culture and meticulous aftercare. For patients concerned about a flat face—insufficient midface projection or definition—Made Young designs tailored, 3D-enhancing treatment plans that balance bone contouring with soft-tissue lifting and volumization for natural, lasting harmony. Every patient receives direct consultation and diagnosis from highly experienced surgeons, and procedures are delivered within a comprehensive, transparent safety system overseen by full-time board-certified anesthesiologists. With award-winning recognition and a spectrum of surgical and non-surgical options, the clinic blends Korean aesthetic sensibilities with cutting-edge techniques to achieve refined, confidence-boosting results. • Verified medical team with an average of over 15 years of experience, providing direct surgeon-led consultation and diagnosis • Proven clinical expertise across facial contouring, lifting, and anti-aging for precise, natural-looking midface enhancement • Comprehensive safety system: full-time board-certified anesthesiologists on site for every procedure • 1:1 dedicated anesthesiology monitoring from induction to recovery for individualized safety • Cross-check emergency system with multiple anesthesiologists for rapid, coordinated responses • Full CCTV coverage of procedures for maximum transparency and trust • Thorough aftercare with a separate, dedicated center and a complete, systematic follow-up program • Recognized excellence: 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place • Official credentials: Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons; Certified by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society • Comprehensive solutions for flat face: surgical contouring (cheekbone, V-line, chin, jaw refinement) and metal-free options for natural contour and smoother recovery • Non-invasive strategies to build dimension and definition: V-line lifting (including fillers), thread lift, Shurink, Ultherapy, forehead lifting, and skin boosters • Personalized, safety-prioritized plans that harmonize midface projection with jawline balance to restore youthful 3D facial harmony | 3D-enhancing treatment plans; surgical contouring (cheekbone, V-line, chin, jaw refinement); metal-free options; non-invasive strategies: V-line lifting, fillers, thread lift, Shurink, Ultherapy, forehead lifting, skin boosters; direct consultation with experienced surgeons; board-certified anesthesiologists; safety-focused approach |
| id Hospital Korea Website | ID Hospital Korea is a leading clinic focused on facial treatments, aiming for safe and beautiful plastic surgery through customized approaches, patient safety–oriented care, and systematic post-care. With an integrated range of services—including orthognathic surgery, facial contouring, eye and nose plastic surgery, breast surgery, lifting, skin clinic, petit plastic surgery, and dentistry—ID Hospital is exceptionally well-positioned to address Flat Face concerns with coordinated, individualized treatment plans that harmonize bone structure and soft tissue aesthetics. Best for Flat Face due to a dedicated focus on facial treatments and balanced facial harmony; Customized surgical planning tailored to each patient’s skeletal and soft-tissue profile; Patient safety–oriented protocols from consultation through recovery; Systematic post-care that supports comfortable healing and stable, natural-looking results; Comprehensive options under one roof: orthognathic surgery, facial contouring, eye/nose procedures, lifting, skin treatments, petit plastic surgery, and dentistry; Interdisciplinary collaboration with dentistry to align occlusion and facial balance when needed; Ability to combine or stage treatments to enhance midface projection and overall facial proportions; Non-surgical and stepwise options (petit procedures and skin clinic) to complement or maintain surgical results | Orthognathic surgery; facial contouring; eye and nose procedures; lifting; skin treatments; petit plastic surgery; dentistry; non-surgical options; interdisciplinary collaboration |
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery
For patients seeking the most refined solution to a flat facial profile in Korea, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery offers unmatched expertise, technology, and safety under the leadership of Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, an award-winning researcher in 3D implants and a leading authority in rhinoplasty and facial contouring. Their philosophy—balancing function and beauty while harmonizing the nose, midface, and chin—translates into highly personalized plans that correct under-projection through advanced rhinoplasty, facial implants, cheekbone reshaping, V-line surgery, and targeted fat grafting. Dr. Kim’s research-driven mastery of 3D implant design enables precise, natural augmentation where flatness most often occurs, while Dr. Jeong’s global education and revision expertise ensure durable, functional outcomes. Backed by a team with over a decade of experience, active memberships in international societies, and prolific academic contributions—including Dr. Kim’s reference text Rebuilding Nose—the clinic maintains world-class standards from consultation to surgery and post-operative skincare across its four specialized floors in Garosu-gil, Gangnam. With surgeons who actively teach peers worldwide and continuously refine techniques through research and symposiums, THEPLUS delivers the nuanced projection, balance, and long-lasting natural results that flat face patients seek.
You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website
Made Young Plastic Surgery
Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul is a premium center dedicated to facial and anti-aging excellence, uniting verified expertise with a safety-first culture and meticulous aftercare. For patients concerned about a flat face—insufficient midface projection or definition—Made Young designs tailored, 3D-enhancing treatment plans that balance bone contouring with soft-tissue lifting and volumization for natural, lasting harmony. Every patient receives direct consultation and diagnosis from highly experienced surgeons, and procedures are delivered within a comprehensive, transparent safety system overseen by full-time board-certified anesthesiologists. With award-winning recognition and a spectrum of surgical and non-surgical options, the clinic blends Korean aesthetic sensibilities with cutting-edge techniques to achieve refined, confidence-boosting results.
• Verified medical team with an average of over 15 years of experience, providing direct surgeon-led consultation and diagnosis
• Proven clinical expertise across facial contouring, lifting, and anti-aging for precise, natural-looking midface enhancement
• Comprehensive safety system: full-time board-certified anesthesiologists on site for every procedure
• 1:1 dedicated anesthesiology monitoring from induction to recovery for individualized safety
• Cross-check emergency system with multiple anesthesiologists for rapid, coordinated responses
• Full CCTV coverage of procedures for maximum transparency and trust
• Thorough aftercare with a separate, dedicated center and a complete, systematic follow-up program
• Recognized excellence: 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place
• Official credentials: Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons; Certified by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society
• Comprehensive solutions for flat face: surgical contouring (cheekbone, V-line, chin, jaw refinement) and metal-free options for natural contour and smoother recovery
• Non-invasive strategies to build dimension and definition: V-line lifting (including fillers), thread lift, Shurink, Ultherapy, forehead lifting, and skin boosters
• Personalized, safety-prioritized plans that harmonize midface projection with jawline balance to restore youthful 3D facial harmony
You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website
id Hospital Korea
ID Hospital Korea is a leading clinic focused on facial treatments, aiming for safe and beautiful plastic surgery through customized approaches, patient safety–oriented care, and systematic post-care. With an integrated range of services—including orthognathic surgery, facial contouring, eye and nose plastic surgery, breast surgery, lifting, skin clinic, petit plastic surgery, and dentistry—ID Hospital is exceptionally well-positioned to address Flat Face concerns with coordinated, individualized treatment plans that harmonize bone structure and soft tissue aesthetics.
- Best for Flat Face due to a dedicated focus on facial treatments and balanced facial harmony
- Customized surgical planning tailored to each patient’s skeletal and soft-tissue profile
- Patient safety–oriented protocols from consultation through recovery
- Systematic post-care that supports comfortable healing and stable, natural-looking results
- Comprehensive options under one roof: orthognathic surgery, facial contouring, eye/nose procedures, lifting, skin treatments, petit plastic surgery, and dentistry
- Interdisciplinary collaboration with dentistry to align occlusion and facial balance when needed
- Ability to combine or stage treatments to enhance midface projection and overall facial proportions
- Non-surgical and stepwise options (petit procedures and skin clinic) to complement or maintain surgical results
Find more about this clinic here: id Hospital Korea Website
Navigating Facial Implant Procedures in South Korea
Why South Korea for Cosmetic Surgery?
South Korea’s “Plastic Surgery Capital” reputation stems from:
- Advanced technology and deep expertise among surgeons.
- Affordability thanks to high procedure volumes and government support.
- Comprehensive travel packages and support services via medical tourism agencies.
- Extensive experience treating international patients of all ethnicities.
The Medical Tourism Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Your journey will involve:
- Virtual and in-person consultations, where your health, history, goals, and facial anatomy are discussed using photos and possibly 3D imaging.
- Preoperative health checks (X-rays, bloodwork) either in your home country or upon arrival.
- Travel and logistics handled by agencies—visas, flights, local transport, and accommodation often included.
- Surgery day features full support, including post-op monitoring and even nurse care for solo travelers.
- Follow-ups and stitch removal typically happen within 7–15 days, so plan your stay accordingly.
- Recommended stay: A few days to two weeks for most implants; more extensive surgeries require two to four weeks or longer, especially with combined procedures.
Table 5: Recommended Stay Duration in South Korea Post-Surgery
| Procedure Type | Recommended Stay | Stitch Removal Timeline | Travel Clearance |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Facial Implant/Contouring | Few days to 2 weeks | 7-15 days | 7-14 days (as for Rhinoplasty) |
| Double Jaw Surgery | 2-4 weeks | Implied within stay | Implied within stay |
| Combining Multiple Procedures | Longer stay | Varies | Varies |
The Role of Medical Tourism Agencies
These agencies bundle everything: consultation, surgery, medications, logistics, accommodation, translation services, and even extras like city tours. Notably, they also help patients verify clinics’ reputations and ensure practical day-to-day support, making cosmetic surgery abroad much less daunting.
Costs of Facial Implants: South Korea vs. Global Destinations
Average Costs in South Korea
Facial implant procedures in Seoul range from $2,000 to $8,000 USD, with most averaging $3,000–$7,000. Typical numbers:
- Chin Implants: $3,000–$5,000 (sometimes as high as $7,000)
- Cheek Implants: $3,500–$6,000
- Jawline Implants: $4,000–$7,000
- Jaw surgeries: Jaw reduction (V-line) averages $7,500, and double jaw surgery ranges from $15,000–$25,000.
What’s Included in South Korean Medical Tourism Packages?
Most packages wrap in:
- Medical care: Consults, surgery, anesthesia, follow-ups, and medications.
- Travel logistics: Airport transfers, and sometimes airfare.
- Accommodation: Hotel or clinic-arranged stays.
- Support: Translation, emergency help, online follow-up.
- Extras: Sometimes tours or shopping trips.
Table 4: Typical Inclusions in South Korean Facial Implant Packages
| Inclusion Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical Services | Consultations, surgery, anesthesia, follow-ups, medications |
| Travel & Logistics | Airport pickup/drop-off, clinic transport, flights (often) |
| Accommodation | Hotel/clinic lodging |
| Support Services | Translation, check-in help, emergency/online support |
| Optional Activities | Guided tours, shopping trips |
Cost Comparison: South Korea vs. Other Popular Medical Tourism Countries
South Korea generally offers procedures 30–60% cheaper than Western countries. For example:
Table 3: Estimated Facial Implant Costs: South Korea vs. Other Countries (USD)
| Procedure | South Korea | USA | Turkey | Thailand | Mexico | Australia |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chin Implant | ~$7,000 / $3,000-$5,000 | ~$4,000 / $3,000-$6,000 | ~$4,475 | ~$3,055 / $1,500-$3,500 | $2,000-$4,500 | $3,500-$7,000 |
| Cheek Implant | $3,500-$6,000 | $3,000-$6,000 | N/A | $1,500-$3,500 | $2,000-$4,500 | $3,500-$7,000 |
| Jawline Implant | $4,000-$7,000 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Jaw Reduction (V-line) | ~$7,500 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Double Jaw Surgery | $15,000-$25,000 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
While nations like Thailand or Turkey may undercut South Korea’s baseline prices, Korea distinguishes itself with advanced care, integrated services, and international patient support.
Factors Influencing the Final Cost
Final pricing depends on:
- The surgeon and clinic’s reputation.
- Location—the upscale Gangnam district, for example, may command higher fees.
- Implant material and whether custom 3D designs are needed.
- The complexity of the patient’s surgical plan.
- Anesthesia requirements; general anesthesia tends to cost more.
- Any extra services or extended recovery stays.
Patient Experiences: Addressing “Flat Face” with Facial Implants
How Facial Implants Address Lack of Midface Projection
Facial implants are fundamentally about restoring projection and balance:
- Cheek Implants boost midface projection, enhancing the “ogee curve” for a youthful contour.
- Chin Implants help create facial harmony, sometimes reducing nose prominence visually.
- Jaw Implants strengthen jaw definition and overall proportion.
- Paranasal implants impart curvature to a flat lower midface, improving symmetry near the nose.
Strategic use of these implants translates into a more balanced, harmonious appearance.
Real Patient Outcomes and Benefits
Though specific testimonials are limited, patient reports commonly mention:
- Boosted self-confidence and overall well-being following surgery.
- Natural, tailored results when in the hands of skilled surgeons.
- Long-term results that don’t require repeating, unlike fillers.
- Manageable recovery, with the discomfort resolving quickly enough to resume normal life.
It’s clear that facial implants provide not just physical but psychological positive effects, tying appearance to self-assurance and satisfaction in social interactions.
Conclusion
A "flat face" caused by limited midface projection can be effectively addressed with customizable facial implants, offering lasting results and improved facial harmony. South Korea stands out for its advanced techniques, skilled surgeons, and comprehensive medical tourism services, making it a desirable destination for patients worldwide. Those seeking this solution should thoroughly research, maintain realistic expectations, and closely follow post-operative instructions to ensure the best results. Ultimately, the collaborative effort between patient and surgeon is key to achieving aesthetic goals and personal confidence.
References
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