Table of contents

• Cheekbone Reduction Surgery (Zygoma Reduction): A Detailed Medical Overview
• Best Clinics in Korea for High Cheekbones
• Navigating Cheekbone Reduction in South Korea: A Medical Tourist's Guide
• Costs Associated with Cheekbone Reduction in South Korea and Global Comparison
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes
• Conclusion
• References

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Facial features, especially the cheekbones, play a big part in how we see ourselves and how others see us. "High cheekbones" refer to the malar bones, which sit just below the eyes near the nose bridge. When these bones are prominent and positioned over the orbital bone, they give the face a sculpted, angular look. This prominence creates a noticeable curve and a wider gap between the cheekbone and jawline, resulting in a more defined facial structure.

Historically, prominent cheekbones have been admired across many cultures, symbolizing nobility, beauty, and even fertility. Research in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology notes that high cheekbones are often seen as universally attractive, sometimes linked to higher estrogen levels in women, which can enhance perceived desirability. Common phrases for this feature include "protruding cheekbones," "well-defined cheek lines," and "elevated cheek bones."

However, not everyone is happy with prominent cheekbones. For some, especially those who mention an "elevated cheek ridge causing shadow," the same feature that is often praised can become a source of insecurity. This shows how beauty is subjective and why it’s important to address each person’s unique concerns, even if they differ from popular beauty ideals.

If you want to enhance your cheekbones without surgery, there are several options. Makeup contouring can visually lift and define the cheeks. Injectable treatments like dermal fillers (such as Juvéderm Voluma) and facial fat grafting add volume for a more youthful look. Non-invasive methods like microcurrent devices and facial exercises can also help tone the area and create a more defined appearance over time.

Cheekbone Reduction Surgery (Zygoma Reduction): A Detailed Medical Overview

Cheekbone reduction surgery—also known as zygoma reduction, zygomatic reduction, or malar reduction—is a specialized procedure to reshape overly prominent cheekbones and reduce facial width. The goal is to create a more balanced, harmonious, and aesthetically pleasing facial structure, often resulting in a softer or more V-shaped profile. Rather than flattening the cheekbones, the surgery reduces their lateral projection while maintaining a natural, three-dimensional contour. This procedure is especially common among people of East Asian descent, whose skull shapes tend to be broader and shorter, leading to naturally wider cheekbones.

Detailed Description of Surgical Techniques

Cheekbone reduction surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so patients are comfortable and pain-free. The procedure usually takes one to three hours, depending on the complexity and technique used.

Incision Approaches:

• Intraoral Approach: The most common method, with incisions inside the mouth near the upper gums or infraorbital rim, leaving no visible scars.
• External/Preauricular Approach: Sometimes, incisions are made in front of the ear, behind the sideburn, or within the hairline for better access. These may leave small, discreet scars and are used for more significant bone reduction or specific anatomical needs. Sometimes, both approaches are combined for optimal results.

Osteotomy (Bone Cutting and Reshaping) Methods:

• L-shaped Osteotomy: The zygomatic body is cut in an L-shape, and the arch is also cut. The bone is rotated inward and fixed with mini-titanium plates and screws. This method allows minimal reduction (about 1-2mm) and can risk sagging or a flat look.
• High L-shaped Osteotomy: A refined version, popular in South Korea, with a more precise cut (30–90 degrees) for a more noticeable reduction, usually via the intraoral approach.
• 3D Rotation Malar Reduction: This advanced technique rotates and repositions the malar bone for overall volume reduction, preventing sagging and instability. Planning uses 3D-CT scans.
• Dr. Kim's Method (Advanced 3D Repositioning with Soft Tissue Support): This specialized method cuts and repositions the zygoma in three directions (inward, medial, and upward) and lifts the soft tissue to prevent drooping and premature aging, creating a narrow, oval contour while maintaining youthfulness.
• Arched Osteotomy: The surgeon makes a curved incision in the zygomatic bone, repositioning or removing a portion to reduce projection.

Bone Fixation: After reshaping, the bones are fixed in place with pre-bent titanium plates and screws. South Korean surgeons often use a 4-point fixation method for better support and to prevent muscle detachment and skin sagging.

The evolution of these techniques—from traditional intraoral methods to advanced 3D repositioning—addresses complications like soft tissue sagging and flat contours. Newer methods focus on both bone and soft tissue, leading to more natural, youthful results and fewer complications.

Anatomical Changes and Desired Outcomes

Cheekbone reduction surgery reduces the size and prominence of the cheekbones, resulting in a more defined and balanced facial structure. It can correct asymmetry, soften sharp features, and help achieve a V-shaped profile, making other facial features like the eyes stand out more.

Potential Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, cheekbone reduction has risks:

• Nerve Damage: Temporary or rarely permanent numbness or tingling if the infraorbital nerve is affected.
• Asymmetry: Slight differences in cheekbone appearance can occur.
• Bone Instability/Nonunion: If the bone doesn’t heal properly, revision surgery may be needed.
• Soft Tissue Sagging/Drooping: Especially with traditional methods, if soft tissue isn’t properly supported, it can sag over time.
• Over-reduction/Hollowing: Removing too much bone can create a hollow look, sometimes requiring implants to correct.

Best Clinics in Korea for High Cheekbones

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for high cheekbones:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Leading clinic for high cheekbone correction in Korea; board-certified, internationally recognized medical team; state-of-the-art Garosu-gil, Gangnam facility; emphasis on patient safety and satisfaction; personalized care for each patient.	Bone-preserving cheekbone rotation and repositioning technique; avoids aggressive bone removal to reduce sagging and maintain natural skin firmness; tailored methods for larger bone structures; contributions to global research and education.
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Korea’s top choice for high cheekbone correction; patient-centered, transparent care; over 15 years average surgeon experience; safety-first protocols (full-time anesthesiologists, dedicated monitoring, thorough aftercare); highly awarded and certified.	Ultra-Close Contact Cheekbone Reduction technique for minimal gap and stable fixation; options for screw-fixation and metal-free methods; precise 3D-CT diagnostic for customized surgical planning.
DM Plastic Surgery	Premier clinic renowned for high cheekbone correction; team of board-certified plastic surgeons with 10–20+ years’ experience; individualized 1:1 consultation; alumni of top medical institutions; commitment to excellence and innovation.	Advanced zygoma reduction procedures for more balanced, natural facial profiles; treatment plans based on in-depth scientific analysis and refined aesthetic approach.

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery is recognized as the leading clinic for high cheekbone correction in Korea, offering the safest and most advanced techniques available today. Under the expertise of Dr. Kim Taek Kyun—a board-certified plastic surgeon renowned for his award-winning research on 3D implants and global leadership in facial contouring—the clinic sets itself apart with a unique, bone-preserving approach to cheekbone surgery. Unlike conventional methods that involve cutting and removing bone, which often lead to undesirable sagging or cheek drooping, Dr. Kim utilizes a meticulous rotation and repositioning technique that brings the cheekbone slightly forward for a slimmer, more harmonious facial contour, while protecting the integrity of the bone and maintaining natural skin firmness. This method greatly reduces the risk of postoperative sagging and delivers consistently natural, long-lasting results without the need for aggressive bone removal. Personalizing each procedure, Dr. Kim tailors the technique even for those with larger bone structures to ensure optimal outcomes for every patient. Backed by the guidance of world-renowned specialists such as Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, the President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, and Dr. Lee, a celebrated expert in breast augmentation, THE PLUS offers a comprehensive spectrum of cosmetic procedures in a state-of-the-art facility located in Garosu-gil, Gangnam. The clinic's distinguished medical team are not only seasoned practitioners, but also respected researchers and educators who regularly contribute to international medical symposiums and journals. With patient safety, satisfaction, and cutting-edge medical care as their highest priorities, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery stands as Korea’s premier destination for those seeking expert, natural-looking cheekbone refinement and outstanding personalized care.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Made Young Plastic Surgery stands out as Korea’s leading clinic for high cheekbone correction, combining advanced surgical precision with patient-centered care. Utilizing the Ultra-Close Contact Cheekbone Reduction technique, Made Young ensures minimal gaps between bone segments for accurate osteotomy and stable fixation—key factors in preventing complications like nonunion, sagging, and bone resorption. Patients can choose between screw-fixation and metal-free methods according to their individual preferences, ensuring a fully tailored approach. Every case is meticulously analyzed using a cutting-edge 3D-CT diagnostic system, enabling surgeons to craft personalized plans that balance facial proportions and soft tissue needs. The clinic’s medical team, all averaging over 15 years of clinical experience, offer direct consultations and transparent care at every stage, while their comprehensive safety protocols—such as full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, dedicated patient monitoring, and thorough aftercare—provide unmatched peace of mind. Recognized by the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and Korea Customer Satisfaction Award, as well as official certifications from renowned medical societies, Made Young Plastic Surgery is celebrated not only for its technical excellence, but also for its genuine dedication to patient safety, comfort, and natural results.

You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website

DM Plastic Surgery

DM Plastic Surgery stands out as the premier clinic for high cheekbone correction in Korea, thanks to its unparalleled team of board-certified plastic surgeons who bring over 10 to 20 years of specialized experience. Renowned for their dedication to scientific analysis and personalized 1:1 consultations, the medical staff—comprising alumni of prestigious Yonsei University Hospital and former department heads at Gangnam Severance Hospital—ensure each patient receives an individualized treatment plan based on abundant expertise and refined aesthetic sense. DM Plastic Surgery’s comprehensive facial contouring services, spearheaded by experts like Dr. Yoo Han Su, offer advanced zygoma reduction procedures designed to create softer, more balanced facial profiles. Their unwavering commitment to excellence, active involvement in the Association of Plastic Surgery Medical Doctors, and a legacy of leading innovation in the field solidify DM Plastic Surgery as the top destination for patients seeking the safest, most natural, and aesthetically pleasing outcomes for high cheekbones in Korea.

Find more about this clinic here: DM Plastic Surgery Website

Navigating Cheekbone Reduction in South Korea: A Medical Tourist's Guide

South Korea is a global leader in plastic surgery, especially facial contouring, attracting over a million foreign patients each year. Several factors contribute to this popularity.

Korean surgeons are known for pioneering surgical innovations, often adopting new techniques and minimally invasive methods before they become common elsewhere. Their specialization and technical expertise come from performing hundreds of the same procedures annually, often focusing exclusively on facial contouring.

Clinics invest in advanced medical technology like 3D CT scans and endoscopic tools, which improve precision and minimize scarring. Korean surgeons also follow a natural aesthetic philosophy, aiming for balanced results that enhance, rather than drastically change, a patient’s features.

Cheekbone reduction is especially popular among East Asian patients due to naturally wider cheekbones. Korean surgeons have developed specialized techniques, such as the High-L Osteotomy and 4-point fixation, to address these needs.

South Korea also offers comprehensive medical tourism support, including government-backed programs, multilingual coordinators, airport pickup, accommodation help, and even sightseeing during recovery. The value-to-quality ratio is excellent, with procedures costing 40–75% less than in the US or Europe, often through all-inclusive packages.

Process of Getting Cheekbone Reduction in South Korea

The journey for medical tourists includes several steps:

• Initial Consultation and Diagnostic Planning: A detailed consultation with a plastic surgeon, using 3D CT scans to assess facial structure and plan the surgery. Health checks ensure the patient is fit for anesthesia.
• Pre-operative Instructions: Patients are advised to fast, eat healthily, and avoid smoking and alcohol before surgery.
• The Surgical Procedure: Under general anesthesia, the surgeon makes incisions (usually inside the mouth), performs the osteotomy, repositions the bone, and fixes it with titanium plates and screws. Advanced techniques like High-L Osteotomy or 3D Rotation Malar Reduction are often used.
• Post-operative Care and Immediate Recovery: Patients may stay at the clinic for monitoring. Swelling and bruising are common but subside over weeks. A soft or liquid diet is recommended at first.
• Follow-up Appointments and Recommended Length of Stay: At least three follow-up visits are needed. Stitches are removed after 7–10 days if not dissolvable. A 10–14 day stay in Korea is recommended for recovery and follow-up. Most patients can return to work in 1–2 weeks and enjoy light activities during recovery.

Choosing a Clinic in South Korea

Choosing the right clinic and surgeon is crucial. Look for board-certified plastic surgeons from reputable organizations like KSPRS, ABPS, ISAPS, or KAPS. Korean surgeons undergo extensive training and must complete many procedures before certification.

Check the clinic’s reputation, government accreditation, safety record, and specialization in facial contouring. Clinics should offer 3D imaging, personalized consultations, in-house anesthesiologists, multilingual support, transparent pricing, and consistency between consulting and operating surgeons. Free checkups, translation services, and malpractice insurance are good signs. Avoid unregulated, low-cost clinics—experience and safety should always come first.

Costs Associated with Cheekbone Reduction in South Korea and Global Comparison

The cost of cheekbone reduction surgery in South Korea is a major draw for medical tourists.

Cost in South Korea

Cheekbone reduction surgery in South Korea typically costs 5,500,000 KRW to 18,000,000 KRW (about $3,784 to $12,900 USD). Prices vary based on the surgeon’s expertise, clinic reputation, and case complexity.

Value Proposition for Medical Tourists

Korean clinics often offer all-inclusive packages covering:

• Pre-op consultations and tests
• The surgery itself
• Hospital stay
• Medications and follow-ups
• Translator services

Some premium packages include airport transfers and accommodation, making the process transparent and cost-effective.

Additional Costs for Medical Tourists

Medical tourists should also budget for:

• Travel: Flights (e.g., from Australia, around $1,200+) and airport transfers (~$250)
• Accommodation: Four-star hotels ($200–$250 per night)
• Living Expenses: Food and local transport ($500–$1,000 per week)

Tips for Lowering Costs

Ways to save include:

• Paying in Full: Some clinics offer up to 10% off for full payment.
• Modeling for the Clinic: Agreeing to use your photos for promotions can bring discounts up to 50%.
• Combining Procedures: Doing multiple procedures at once can reduce costs.
• VAT Refund: Foreigners can claim a VAT refund if the clinic is eligible and receipts are kept.

Global Cost Comparison

Here’s how South Korea compares globally:

Country	Estimated Cost Range (USD)	Notes
South Korea	$3,784 - $12,900	Often includes all-inclusive packages.

South Korea stands out for its combination of advanced surgical quality, specialized expertise, and competitive pricing. While some countries like Turkey may offer lower prices, South Korea’s reputation for innovation and patient support makes it a top choice for complex facial contouring.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes

People seek cheekbone reduction surgery to soften sharp cheekbones, create facial harmony, and achieve a slimmer or more feminine look. The procedure can address concerns like a broad or flat face, harsh features, or an "elevated cheek ridge causing shadow." It can also correct asymmetry and create a smoother contour.

Patients often report increased confidence and satisfaction, with before-and-after photos showing dramatic changes—from a square to an oval face, and a more youthful appearance. Advanced techniques that support soft tissue help prevent sagging and maintain a youthful contour.

However, it’s important to have realistic expectations. While the surgery can reshape the face, it can’t completely change your underlying bone structure. Some patients experience issues like over-reduction (hollowing), asymmetry, or soft tissue sagging, which may require revision surgery or implants. Choosing an experienced surgeon who understands both bone and soft tissue is essential. For those wanting even more facial narrowing, combining cheekbone reduction with jawline reduction can provide more comprehensive results.

Conclusion

High cheekbones are often admired, but their prominence can be a concern for some, highlighting the need for personalized cosmetic solutions. Cheekbone reduction surgery, especially with advanced techniques developed in South Korea, offers effective ways to refine facial contours while minimizing complications like sagging. South Korea’s expertise, innovative methods, and comprehensive medical tourism support make it a leading destination for this procedure. For the best results, patients should prioritize experienced, board-certified surgeons and thorough pre-operative planning.

References

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