Medical Tourism Blog
Midface Volume Loss Solutions in Korea: PRP Fat Grafting & Cheekbone Implant Procedures
Table of contents
- Common Pseudonyms for Midface Volume Loss
- Detailed Medical Procedures for Midface Volume Restoration
- Best Clinics in Korea for Midface Volume Loss
- Navigating Cosmetic Procedures in South Korea for Medical Tourists
- Cost Analysis: South Korea vs. Other Countries (Medical Tourist Perspective)
- Patient Outcomes and Experiences
- Conclusion
- References
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Midface volume loss, often described as "deflated cheek tissue from aging," is a common concern that can dramatically affect facial appearance and self-confidence. This condition is marked by a sunken or hollow look in the central face, especially between the cheekbone and jawline (the buccal area). As facial volume and skin elasticity decrease, the face can appear tired, older, or even gaunt.
The main cause of midface volume loss is aging, which leads to a gradual reduction in subcutaneous fat and a decline in collagen and elastin production. Fat tends to shift from the upper face to the lower face, changing the youthful, inverted triangle shape into a more square and deflated look. Rapid weight loss, especially from medications like semaglutide-based drugs (such as Ozempic or Wegovy), can also cause facial hollowing, sometimes called "Ozempic face." While not medically dangerous, these changes can be emotionally challenging. Other factors like sun exposure, smoking, and pollution can speed up this process. People with midface volume loss often notice flatter cheeks and a less defined midface, making them look older or more fatigued. Treatments focus on restoring lost volume and improving skin quality.
Common Pseudonyms for Midface Volume Loss
Different terms are used to describe midface volume loss, which helps patients and healthcare providers communicate more clearly.
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Sunken Cheeks | Describes the inward, hollow look of the midface due to volume loss. |
Detailed Medical Procedures for Midface Volume Restoration
If you're looking to address midface volume loss, two main medical procedures stand out: PRP Fat Grafting and Cheekbone Implants. Each has its own approach, benefits, and considerations.
PRP Fat Grafting (Platelet-Rich Plasma Fat Grafting)
What is PRP Fat Grafting?
PRP Fat Grafting, also called Platelet-Rich Plasma Fat Grafting or Platelet-Rich Plasma Fat Transfer, is a cosmetic procedure that combines the regenerative power of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) with traditional fat grafting. Fat is taken from areas with excess (like the abdomen or thighs), while a blood sample is processed to isolate PRP, which is rich in growth factors. The PRP is mixed with the purified fat and injected into the face.
The growth factors in PRP help the transferred fat cells survive and integrate, leading to longer-lasting results than fat grafting alone. Since your own fat and blood are used, there's no risk of rejection or allergic reaction. PRP Fat Grafting not only restores facial volume but also improves skin quality, elasticity, and texture, offering a comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
The Procedure: Step-by-Step
- Consultation and Assessment: A certified plastic surgeon reviews your medical history and goals, using imaging to plan the treatment.
- Fat Harvesting: Fat is removed from donor sites (like the abdomen or thighs) using liposuction or syringe aspiration (Coleman Technique) to minimize cell damage.
- Fat Processing: The fat is purified by removing impurities using sedimentation, filtration, or centrifugation. Techniques like Microfat and Nanofat can be used for specific needs.
- Preparing Platelet-Rich Plasma: Blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to separate PRP, which is rich in growth factors.
- Combining PRP and Fat: The purified fat and PRP are mixed to create an advanced filler.
- Injection Process: The mixture is injected into target areas (cheeks, temples, jawline, under-eye hollows) using microinjections for even distribution and a natural look. Surgeons may slightly overcorrect the volume to account for some resorption.
- Post-Procedure Care: Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, use prescribed antibiotics, and attend follow-ups. Swelling and mild discomfort are common but usually resolve in one to two weeks.
Key Benefits and Considerations
PRP Fat Grafting offers natural, long-lasting results using your own fat, with no risk of rejection. It restores facial volume, removes unwanted fat from donor areas, and improves skin quality. It's effective for softening lines and refining facial contours.
However, not all transferred fat survives, so some may be reabsorbed, possibly requiring a second session. Results can vary depending on the provider's technique. Complications are rare but can include skin irregularities, prolonged swelling, graft overgrowth, fat necrosis, infection, acne, and spider veins. A very rare but serious risk is fat embolism, especially in certain facial areas, though the cheek is considered safer.
Cheekbone Implants
What are Cheekbone Implants?
Cheekbone implants are solid, artificial materials surgically placed to add volume to the cheek area, such as the malar (cheekbone) and sub-malar (mid-cheek) regions. They enhance facial contours and provide a more youthful, symmetrical look. Unlike temporary fillers, cheek implants offer a permanent solution and avoid the risk of migration or an overfilled appearance.
Implants are usually made from silicone or porous polyethylene (Medpor®) and are customized to fit each patient. They can be shaped to enhance cheekbone projection, round out sunken cheeks, or address both areas for balanced results.
Types of Cheek Implants
- Malar Implants: Placed over the cheekbones to increase projection and definition, popular among younger adults.
- Submalar Implants: Placed in the mid-cheek to correct a hollow appearance and add support.
- Combined Cheek Implants: Used when both malar and submalar augmentation is needed for comprehensive volume restoration.
The Surgical Process: Step-by-Step
- Pre-operative Preparation: Patients fast for 8 hours, shower, and avoid certain medications before surgery. Medical history is reviewed.
- Consultation and Marking: The surgeon marks the face and confirms readiness.
- Anesthesia: Sedative anesthesia is administered through a catheter.
- Incision: A small incision is made inside the upper lip or mouth (sometimes under the eyelid) to minimize visible scarring.
- Implant Placement: A pocket is created, and the implant is fitted and secured, often with a fixation screw.
- Closure: The incision is closed with stitches, and a compression bandage is applied.
- Recovery: Patients go home the same day. Swelling peaks in the first 1-2 days and subsides over a week. Light activities can resume within a week, but full recovery takes about six weeks.
Key Benefits and Considerations
Cheek implants provide a permanent solution for cheek volume loss, with minimal scarring and customizable results. They can be removed or adjusted if needed. Risks include bleeding, infection, numbness, chronic pain, or implant shifting, but these are rare with proper care and experienced surgeons.
PRP Fat Grafting vs. Cheekbone Implants: A Comparative Overview
| Factor | PRP Fat Grafting | Cheekbone Implants |
|---|---|---|
| Material Used | Patient's own fat and PRP | Silicone or porous polyethylene (Medpor®) |
| Longevity | Long-lasting, but some fat may be reabsorbed; touch-ups may be needed | Permanent, but removable if desired |
| Volume Loss Treatment | Restores overall facial volume, softer and more natural look | Adds defined projection and structural volume to cheeks |
| Skin Quality | Improves skin texture and elasticity | No direct skin benefits |
| Procedure Complexity | Multi-step: fat harvesting, processing, PRP prep, injection | Surgical insertion of implant; generally quicker |
| Allergic Reaction | None (autologous materials) | Possible, but rare with biocompatible implants |
| Recovery Time | Swelling/bruising for about two weeks; light activity after a week | Swelling/discomfort for weeks; light activity after a week |
Best Clinics in Korea for Midface Volume Loss
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for midface volume loss:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| THEPLUS Plastic Surgery | Four-floor facility covering consultation, surgery, and post-op skincare; surgeons are active clinicians/researchers/educators (publish in journals, speak at international symposiums, lead webinars); focus on safety, clear communication, and personalized planning; leadership includes Dr. Kim (board-certified, award-winning 3D implant researcher; rhinoplasty and facial contouring authority), Dr. Jeong (President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons; unites function and beauty), and Dr. Lee (board-certified breast augmentation specialist; experience at top hospitals including Seoul National University Hospital); team’s academic engagement and procedural breadth for tailored midface rejuvenation. | Facial contouring; facial implants; face fat grafting; fillers; thread lifts; facelifts. |
| Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic | Cheongdam, Gangnam; world-class expertise with safest, advanced stem cell fat grafting protocols; elevates graft survival from 20–30% to 50–60%; led by Dr. An Kyung Chun (Top 18 Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Experts, Director of the 5D Liposculpture Academy, World’s Top 100 Doctors in Stem Cell Aesthetic Medicine); MOHW–approved double-door sealed cleanrooms (Clean Class 10,000, HEPA); anatomy-based design tailored to facial proportions and vectors of light reflection; boutique, single-specialist approach trusted by VIPs and celebrities; structured 4-step aftercare (swelling reduction, irregularity correction, skin elasticity recovery, residual fat contouring); leadership in physician training and extensive experience. | Stem cell–enriched fat grafting using advanced centrifuges operated at 4°C; Edinizer for uniformly sized fat parcels enabling denser placement, reducing necrosis/irregularities, limiting swelling, and boosting take rates. |
| Made Young Plastic Surgery | Deep facial and anti-aging specialization; verified medical team averaging over 15 years of clinical experience; direct, doctor-led consultations; safety systems with full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, 1:1 monitoring, cross-check protocol, and full procedure CCTV; dedicated aftercare center for comprehensive, systematic follow-up; awards (2022 Korea No.1 Award; 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place); Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons; certified by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society. | Precise surgical lifting; non-invasive strategies including thread lifting; ultrasound-based tightening (Shurink, Ultherapy); filler-focused V-line lifting. |
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery
Located in the vibrant Garosu-gil area of Gangnam, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery offers a comprehensive, four-floor facility designed to support every step of care—from consultation to surgery and post-operative skincare. The clinic’s surgeons are not only seasoned clinicians but also active researchers and educators who publish in scholarly journals, speak at international symposiums, and lead webinars to advance the field. With a core focus on safety, clear patient communication, and personalized planning, THE PLUS provides a full spectrum of solutions relevant to midface volume loss, including facial contouring, facial implants, face fat grafting, fillers, thread lifts, and facelifts—each selected to restore balance, proportion, and a natural-looking midface.
The leadership at THE PLUS brings deep, internationally recognized expertise to midface aesthetics. Dr. Kim, a board-certified plastic surgeon and award-winning 3D implant researcher, is a leading authority in rhinoplasty and facial contouring; he runs annual educational sessions for fellow surgeons and emphasizes harmonizing facial features to enhance natural beauty. Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, frequently lectures and sits on global panels, approaching every case with an ethos that unites function and beauty—an essential principle when addressing midface volume loss alongside nasal and cheek harmony. Complementing the team, Dr. Lee, a board-certified specialist in breast augmentation with experience at top hospitals including Seoul National University Hospital, contributes to the clinic’s culture of meticulous technique and natural, long-lasting results. Together, the team’s academic engagement and procedural breadth position THE PLUS as a trusted destination for tailored midface rejuvenation in Korea.
You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website
Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic
Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic in Cheongdam, Gangnam is Korea’s premier choice for correcting midface volume loss because it combines world-class expertise with the safest, most advanced stem cell fat grafting protocols for natural, long-lasting results. Led by Dr. An Kyung Chun—selected as one of Korea’s Top 18 Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Experts, Director of the 5D Liposculpture Academy, and listed among the World’s Top 100 Doctors in Stem Cell Aesthetic Medicine—the clinic elevates graft survival from the typical 20–30% to 50–60% by enriching fat with stem cells extracted via advanced centrifuges operated at the optimal 4°C. Ministry of Health and Welfare–approved, double-door sealed cleanrooms maintain Clean Class 10,000 air quality with HEPA filtration during stem cell separation and concentration, minimizing contamination risk and supporting graft quality. For smooth, even midface contours, Lydian uses the Edinizer to create uniformly sized fat parcels, reducing the risk of necrosis and surface irregularities while enabling denser placement that helps limit swelling and further boosts take rates. Every procedure follows an anatomy-based design tailored to each patient’s facial proportions and vectors of light reflection, supported by continuous investment in the latest devices and a boutique, single-specialist approach trusted by VIPs and celebrities. A structured 4-step aftercare pathway—swelling reduction, irregularity correction, skin elasticity recovery, and residual fat contouring—optimizes recovery and refinement, while Dr. An’s leadership in physician training and vast experience in full-face fat grafting and stem cell therapy ensure meticulous technique and consistently elegant, natural rejuvenation of the midface.
You can check out their website here: Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic Website
Made Young Plastic Surgery
For patients seeking the most refined solution to midface volume loss in Korea, Made Young Plastic Surgery in Gangnam stands out as the premier choice, uniting deep facial and anti-aging specialization with a verified medical team averaging over 15 years of clinical experience and providing direct, doctor-led consultations for truly tailored plans. Whether recommending precise surgical lifting or non-invasive strategies such as thread lifting, ultrasound-based tightening (Shurink, Ultherapy), and filler-focused V-line lifting to restore youthful midface contours, the clinic blends traditional aesthetic harmony with cutting-edge techniques. Safety is uncompromising, with full-time board-certified anesthesiologists on site, a 1:1 dedicated monitoring system, a cross-check protocol for rapid, coordinated responses, and full procedure CCTV for transparency. Post-procedure, patients benefit from a separate, dedicated aftercare center delivering comprehensive, systematic follow-up to optimize outcomes and longevity. This commitment to excellence is reflected in major honors—2022 Korea No.1 Award, 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place—and professional trust as an Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and certification by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society, making Made Young the trusted destination for midface rejuvenation.
You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website
Navigating Cosmetic Procedures in South Korea for Medical Tourists
South Korea is a top destination for cosmetic surgery, thanks to its advanced clinics, skilled surgeons, and competitive prices. International patients should understand the process for a smooth experience.
General Process for International Patients
Most journeys start with online research. Many clinics have multilingual websites and offer free initial consultations. Pre-operative tests are common to ensure safety. Medical tourism agencies like Bookimed can help with transparent pricing, verified clinics, and 24/7 support, including personal coordinators and multilingual staff. Visa requirements are straightforward for many nationalities, and travel costs should be included in your budget.
Getting PRP Fat Grafting in South Korea
- Consultation and Assessment: Meet with a certified surgeon to discuss goals and plan the procedure.
- Harvesting Fat: Fat is removed from donor sites and purified.
- Preparing Platelet-Rich Plasma: Blood is drawn and processed to isolate PRP.
- Combining PRP and Fat: The two are mixed to create the filler.
- Injection Process: The mixture is injected into the face with microinjections.
- Post-Procedure Care: Follow instructions for recovery, including avoiding strenuous activity and attending follow-ups.
Getting Cheekbone Implants in South Korea
- Initial Inquiry and Consultation: Submit photos and medical history online, then attend in-person consultations.
- Pre-Surgery Preparation: Follow pre-op instructions, including fasting and medication restrictions.
- Anesthesia and Incision: Sedative anesthesia is administered, and incisions are made inside the mouth.
- Implant Insertion and Securing: Implants are placed and fixed to the cheekbone.
- Suturing and Dressing: Incisions are closed and a compression dressing is applied.
- Recovery and Follow-up: Swelling peaks in the first days and subsides over a week. Stitches are removed around Day 14, and sensitivity returns within three months.
Cost Analysis: South Korea vs. Other Countries (Medical Tourist Perspective)
South Korea is known for high-quality cosmetic surgery at competitive prices, making it attractive for medical tourists.
Estimated Costs in South Korea
- PRP Fat Grafting: ₩5,000,000 to ₩16,000,000 ($3,500 to $11,300 USD). Standalone PRP sessions are much less.
- Cheekbone Implants: ₩5,500,000 to ₩10,000,000 ($3,790 to $6,890 USD).
Prices usually include surgeon fees, operating room, anesthesia, and some follow-up care. Additional costs may include pre-op tests ($100-$500), medications ($50-$200), extra follow-ups ($50-$150), and travel/accommodation.
Cost Comparison: South Korea vs. US, UK, Australia, and Turkey
| Procedure | South Korea (USD) | United States (USD) | United Kingdom (USD) | Australia (USD) | Turkey (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PRP Fat Grafting | $3,500 - $11,300 | $2,500 - $7,000 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Cheekbone Implants | $3,790 - $6,890 | ~$4,000 | ~$6,400 | ~$4,300 | N/A |
| General Surgery Avg. | $4,000 - $10,500 | Up to $22,000 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Note: Some countries lack specific data for these procedures; comparisons use similar surgeries where needed.
Factors Influencing Cost and Medical Tourism Advantages
Patients can save 40-65% by choosing South Korea, without sacrificing quality. Clinics offer state-of-the-art facilities, experienced surgeons, and transparent pricing. Many packages include consultations, tests, surgery, anesthesia, and aftercare, with some even covering accommodation and transfers. This comprehensive approach, combined with high standards and competitive pricing, makes South Korea a top choice for midface volume restoration.
Patient Outcomes and Experiences
Understanding real patient experiences helps set expectations for midface volume restoration.
Effectiveness in Addressing Midface Volume Loss
Both PRP Fat Grafting and Cheekbone Implants are effective for restoring youthful contours. Fat grafting softens lines and adds fullness, with results that can be long-lasting but may require touch-ups. Cheek implants offer a permanent solution for cheek definition and balance, unlike temporary fillers.
Reported Patient Satisfaction and Aesthetic Improvements
Satisfaction rates are high for both procedures when performed by skilled surgeons. For PRP Fat Grafting, studies show patient satisfaction rates of 78%-100%. Cheekbone Implants also receive high marks, with similar procedures like hyaluronic acid fillers showing 92.8% of patients reporting improved cheek volume at 6 months and 79% at 2 years. Patients often feel they look several years younger after treatment.
| Midfacial Region | Baseline (%) | Month 6 (%) | Month 12 (%) | Month 24 (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outer/lower cheek areas | 59.0 | 97.6 | 93.1 | 89.8 |
| Cheekbone projection | 69.7 | 97.6 | 95.5 | 91.7 |
| Area beside nose | 53.6 | 95.7 | 94.0 | 91.0 |
| Tear troughs | 47.2 | 84.7 | 80.1 | 77.7 |
| Nasolabial folds | 31.2 | 73.6 | 69.0 | 56.7 |
Data from Juvéderm Voluma XC studies as a proxy for volume restoration satisfaction.
Common Side Effects and Potential Complications
Both procedures are generally safe, but side effects can occur.
For PRP Fat Grafting, common effects include tenderness, swelling, firmness, lumps, bruising, pain, redness, discoloration, and itching—usually mild and resolving within two weeks. Rare complications include skin irregularities, prolonged swelling, graft overgrowth, fat necrosis, infection, acne, and spider veins. The most serious risk is fat embolism, especially in certain facial areas, but the cheek is the safest zone.
For Cheekbone Implants, typical side effects are swelling, bruising, discomfort, and stiffness. Risks include bleeding, infection, numbness, chronic pain, or implant shifting, but these are rare with experienced surgeons.
| Complication Type | PRP Fat Grafting | Cheekbone Implants |
|---|---|---|
| Common Side Effects | Tenderness, swelling, lumps, bruising, pain, redness, itching | Swelling, bruising, discomfort |
| Moderate Complications | Skin irregularities, prolonged swelling, fat necrosis, etc. | Bleeding, infection, numbness |
| Severe Complications | Fat embolism, tissue necrosis, vision loss, stroke (rare) | Rare, usually related to above issues |
Conclusion
Midface volume loss can be effectively treated with PRP Fat Grafting or Cheekbone Implants, each offering unique benefits and considerations. South Korea provides high-quality care and significant cost savings for medical tourists. Choosing the right procedure depends on your goals, desired longevity, and willingness to undergo surgery or touch-ups—consulting with experienced surgeons and thorough planning are key to achieving the best results.
References
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