Table of contents

• Zygoma Reduction (Cheekbone Reduction) Surgery: A Detailed Overview
• Best Clinics in Korea for Prominent Cheekbones
• The Medical Tourist's Journey: Cheekbone Reduction in South Korea
• Cost Analysis: South Korea vs. Global Medical Tourism
• Patient Outcomes and Addressing Concerns
• Conclusion
• References

If you’re looking for solutions to facial features described as “cheeks protrude creating wide face,” it’s vital to understand the underlying facial anatomy, available procedures like zygoma reduction, and practical aspects, especially when considering medical tourism in South Korea. This article provides an accessible overview, covering the definition of prominent cheekbones, the details of cheekbone reduction surgery, key considerations for patients—especially international ones—costs, and what you can expect after surgery. Our goal is to empower you to make informed, confident decisions about this transformative journey.

What are "Prominent Cheekbones"? (Medical Definition and Anatomy)

Prominent cheekbones refer to the noticeable lateral projection of the zygomatic bone—the malar bone that shapes the contour of your cheeks. While “high cheekbones” are often admired in some cultures, in this context, “prominent cheekbones” means the face appears broad because the cheekbones stick out to the sides. Many people seeking change aren’t looking to lower the highness of their cheekbones, but rather to reduce their width, which they may feel creates a masculine, angular, or disproportionate look.

This distinction matters: “high cheekbones” are all about vertical bone placement and are often seen as attractive, but when people worry their “cheeks protrude creating wide face,” it’s the horizontal width that concerns them. For some, prominent cheekbones may also indicate rare medical conditions such as autosomal dominant craniometaphyseal dysplasia, which leads to widened facial structures.

Common Pseudonyms and Related Terms

If you’re researching this topic, you might see a variety of terms used interchangeably. Here’s a handy reference:

Table 1: Common Pseudonyms for “Prominent Cheekbones”

Term	Description
Cheekbone excess	General term for oversized cheekbones
Malar hypertrophy	Overgrowth of the malar (cheek) bone
Zygomatic hypertrophy	Overgrowth of the zygomatic bone
Wide face	Patient description for faces with large bizygomatic width
Diamond shaped face	Cheekbones are the widest, chin and forehead are narrower
Malar reduction	Surgery to reduce prominence of the malar bone
Zygoma reduction	Alternative term emphasizing focus on the zygomatic bone
Cheek reduction	May include bone, fat, or other reductions to slim the cheeks

Cultural Perceptions and Aesthetic Considerations

Beauty ideals differ: while many Western standards treasure “high cheekbones,” cultural aesthetics in places like South Korea tend to favor a softer, oval, or heart-shaped visage. Here, broad cheekbones may be seen as less feminine and more angular or masculine. This has driven South Korea to become a leader in advanced, subtle cheekbone reduction procedures, making local surgeons highly skilled in achieving “Korean beauty standard” outcomes. If you’re a medical tourist from outside East Asia, be sure to communicate your personal preferences, as local beauty ideals may differ from yours.

Over the years, cultural beliefs about cheekbones have varied widely, sometimes even associating “high cheekbones” with luck or leadership, reflecting the complex relationship between facial structure and society.

Zygoma Reduction (Cheekbone Reduction) Surgery: A Detailed Overview

Objectives of the Procedure: Achieving Facial Harmony and Contouring

Zygoma reduction, also known as cheekbone reduction or malar reduction, aims to slim overly prominent cheekbones by reshaping the zygomatic bone. This results in a softer, narrower, and more balanced facial contour. The main goal is to turn a broad or angular midface into a more harmonious, oval or heart-shaped look, greatly boosting confidence for many patients.

Key Surgical Techniques

The procedure focuses on permanent bone changes:

• Osteotomy: The most common method involves making surgical cuts (osteotomies) in the zygomatic bone, then repositioning it for a narrower profile. Variations include:
  • L-shaped osteotomy: Standard, high L-shaped, and orbital rim shaving techniques offer different benefits in terms of scarring and bone repositioning.
  • Arched or curved osteotomy: Cuts follow a gentle curve, allowing specific contouring.
  • M-shaped osteotomy: Used for certain anatomies, requires high expertise.
  • Repositioning over removal: Modern approaches focus on bone rotation and repositioning rather than cutting pieces away, to minimize sagging and optimize support.
• Bone shaving: Less invasive, bone shaving is used for minor adjustments or refining shapes.
• Fixation: The repositioned bones are usually stabilized with small titanium plates and screws, ensuring good healing, although some surgeons may opt for healing without hardware for minor cases.

Surgical Approaches (Incision Sites)

Approach depends on incision placement:

• Intraoral: Most popular—incisions are inside your mouth, leaving no external scars. However, traditional methods might not fully address sagging.
• External: Incisions on the sideburns (preauricular) or within the scalp (coronal) allow greater access but may leave hidden or visible scars.
• Combined: Some complex cases use a mix of both approaches for optimal results.

Advanced techniques now emphasize soft tissue resuspension along with bone work to prevent sagging—a major concern after earlier intraoral-only procedures. When choosing a clinic, ensure they describe their soft tissue management strategy.

Pre-Surgical Assessment and Planning

Every journey starts with consultation. Your surgeon will assess your bone structure, collect your health history, and discuss your desired outcomes. Cutting-edge clinics use high-resolution 3D CT scans and simulation software to pre-plan surgery and show you likely results, customizing the approach to your anatomy and preferences and improving symmetry and satisfaction.

A careful analysis of your unique zygoma type allows the surgeon to choose the best surgical method and plan the new bone position for the most natural contour.

Associated and Complementary Procedures

Cheekbone reduction is often one component in a larger facial contouring plan. It may be combined with liposuction, buccal fat removal, or midface lifting procedures to further soften the face or prevent drooping. For a true “V-line” jaw shape, many patients combine cheekbone reduction with jaw or chin surgeries.

Table 2: Key Cheekbone Reduction Surgical Techniques & Approaches

Technique / Approach	Incision Site	Key Feature/Benefit	Potential Drawback
Osteotomy	Varies	Permanent bone shape change	More complex than shaving, longer recovery
L-shaped Osteotomy	Intraoral/preauricular	Effective repositioning, precise cuts	Traditional forms risk sagging if not managed well
Arched Osteotomy	Intraoral/preauricular	Specific contouring, curved cuts	Soft tissue management still needed
M-shaped Osteotomy	Intraoral/temporal	Tailored to bone structure	Requires specialized expertise
Bone Shaving	Intraoral/hairline	Less invasive, for minor changes	Only minor reduction possible
Intraoral Approach	Inside the mouth	No visible scars	Less access, traditional method may cause sagging
Preauricular Approach	Sideburns	Great access to the arch	Scar on sideburn
Coronal Approach	Within the scalp	Maximum exposure, best soft tissue repositioning	Longer scar, but typically hidden
Combined Approaches	Intraoral + external	Tailored for complex cases	More complexity, more incisions

Best Clinics in Korea for Prominent Cheekbones

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

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Groundbreaking approach by Dr. Kim; internationally recognized, board-certified surgeons; customized procedures for different bone structures; patient-centered philosophy; safety-focused, seamless communication; located in Gangnam's Garosu-gil	Advanced rotation and repositioning technique (bone-preserving); brings cheekbone slightly forward; minimizes sagging and maintains skin firmness; tailored for natural, harmonious results
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Advanced safety standards; 3D-CT diagnostic system; elite surgeons averaging 15+ years' experience; comprehensive aftercare; national awards; full CCTV for transparency; state-of-the-art Gangnam facility	Ultra-Close Contact Cheekbone Reduction (stable fixation, minimum complications); both screw-fixation and metal-free options; personalized analysis for every surgery
DM Plastic Surgery	Board-certified surgeons with 10–20+ years' experience; backgrounds from top hospitals; 1:1 personalized consultation; scientific, detailed analysis; highest safety and innovation standards	Comprehensive facial contouring options; expert zygoma reduction for natural, tailored results; advanced and individualized treatment plans

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery stands out as the premier clinic for treating prominent cheekbones in Korea, thanks to its groundbreaking approach developed by Dr. Kim and the exceptional expertise of its surgical team. Unlike traditional cheekbone reduction methods that require cutting and removing bone, which can lead to unwanted sagging or "cheek drooping," Dr. Kim employs an advanced rotation and repositioning technique. This innovative, bone-preserving method brings the cheekbone slightly forward to achieve a slimmer and more balanced facial contour while minimizing the risk of facial sagging and maintaining the skin’s natural firmness. Each procedure is carefully customized, particularly for individuals with larger bone structures, ensuring a natural, harmonious result tailored to the patient's unique features. THE PLUS is led by internationally recognized, board-certified surgeons—including Dr. Kim, Dr. Jeong (President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons), and Dr. Lee—all of whom are actively involved in academic research, global medical societies, and the education of fellow surgeons. Located in Gangnam's Garosu-gil, the clinic’s patient-centric philosophy emphasizes safety, seamless communication, and an unwavering commitment to aesthetic excellence. Whether you seek subtle refinement or transformative facial balancing, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery delivers world-class care, making it the top destination for outstanding cheekbone procedures in Korea.

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

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in the heart of Seoul’s prestigious Gangnam district, is a premium destination for those seeking advanced facial contouring and anti-aging procedures. Renowned for its exceptional safety standards and innovative techniques, Made Young is especially acclaimed for its expertise in prominent cheekbone (zygomatic) surgery. The clinic’s highly skilled surgeons employ the Ultra-Close Contact Cheekbone Reduction technique—an approach that ensures precisely aligned bone sections, stable fixation, and minimal complication risk such as nonunion, sagging, or bone resorption. Each patient’s facial structure is meticulously analyzed using a 3D-CT precision diagnostic system, enabling the development of truly customized treatment plans. With options for both screw-fixation and metal-free cheekbone reductions, Made Young combines artistry, safety, and modern medical science, making it the leading choice for those seeking natural and balanced results in cheekbone contouring.

Why Made Young Plastic Surgery is the Top Choice for Prominent Cheekbones:

• Advanced Ultra-Close Contact Cheekbone Reduction Technique: Minimizes gaps between bone sections for accurate, stable results and reduced complications.
• Tailored Surgical Methods: Offers both screw-fixation and metal-free options to match each patient’s anatomical and aesthetic goals.
• 3D-CT Diagnostic System: Delivers thorough preoperative facial analysis for perfectly customized surgical plans.
• Elite Medical Team: Surgeons average over 15 years of experience and provide direct consultations and expert personalized care.
• Comprehensive Safety Measures: Full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, 1:1 monitoring during procedures, emergency cross-check system, and full CCTV coverage for utmost transparency.
• Dedicated Aftercare: Separate center and systematic post-procedure support to optimize recovery.
• Recognized Excellence: Multiple national awards and official recognitions, including the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and certification by major professional societies.
• Premium Environment: State-of-the-art facility in Gangnam, Seoul, with genuine dedication to patient wellbeing and satisfaction.

Made Young Plastic Surgery sets the benchmark for safety, expertise, and natural-looking results in prominent cheekbone correction, ensuring every patient achieves a harmonious and confident new look.

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

DM Plastic Surgery

DM Plastic Surgery stands out as the best clinic in Korea for addressing prominent cheekbones thanks to its exceptional team of board-certified plastic surgeons, all of whom have more than 10 to 20 years of specialized experience and have trained at top institutions such as Yonsei University Hospital. The clinic is led by surgeons who not only hold esteemed academic and professional backgrounds—including roles as the former head of Plastic Surgery at Gangnam Severance Hospital—but who also offer the latest techniques and the most comprehensive range of procedures for facial contouring, including expert zygoma reduction to soften and refine prominent cheekbones. Each patient at DM Plastic Surgery receives a personalized treatment plan, developed through 1:1 consultations and detailed scientific analysis, ensuring results that are both natural and tailored to the individual’s facial structure. As active members of the Association of Plastic Surgery Medical Doctors, DM’s surgeons continuously uphold the highest standards of safety, innovation, and aesthetic excellence, making the clinic a leading choice for anyone seeking facial harmony, including those concerned with pronounced cheekbone contours in Korea.

Find more about this clinic here: DM Plastic Surgery Website

The Medical Tourist's Journey: Cheekbone Reduction in South Korea

Why South Korea is a Leading Destination for Facial Contouring

South Korea leads the world in facial bone contouring, thanks to:

• Advanced surgical methods: Korean surgeons focus on innovative, bone-preserving techniques for natural results and minimal scarring.
• Aesthetic standards: The cultural popularity of “V-line” and softer features pushes expertise and innovation.
• Safety and care: Stringent regulations ensure high safety, specialized training, and modern equipment.
• Medical tourism infrastructure: International clinics frequently offer English-speaking support, dedicated international patient care, and bundled packages.

Process of Getting Cheekbone Reduction in South Korea

• Consultation: Begin with a thorough consultation, often online. 3D imaging gives the surgeon a detailed map of your facial structure. Simulation software lets you preview possible results.
• Pre-operative tests: Medical screening ensures you’re healthy for surgery. You’ll also receive instructions on diet and smoking or alcohol restrictions.
• Anesthesia: Cheekbone reduction uses general anesthesia for patient comfort.
• Surgery:
  • Incision: Most often through the mouth, avoiding visible scars. Sometimes extra incisions are needed.
  • Bone restructuring: The surgeon performs an osteotomy, repositions the bone, and ensures stabilization.
  • Soft tissue lift: Advanced clinics actively lift and secure facial soft tissues to prevent sagging.
  • Closure: Dissolvable sutures may be used for mouth incisions.
• Aftercare: Most patients don’t need overnight hospitalization, but dressings and compression help reduce swelling.
• Suture removal and follow-ups: External stitches (if any) are removed within 5-14 days. Multiple follow-ups monitor healing.
• Recovery: Expect swelling and bruising for several weeks. A soft or liquid diet is required for 1-2 weeks. Gradually, most return to light activity after 1-2 weeks (but heavy exercise must wait). Full recovery and final results appear after 3-6 months.
• International patient tips: Most overseas patients stay at least 7-14 days, with longer stays beneficial for monitoring. Choose accommodation near the clinic for easy follow-up and ensure language support is available. Consider timing to avoid peak holidays and clarify all package inclusions to budget accurately.

It’s crucial to ask clinics exactly what your package covers—flights, long-term accommodation, and daily living costs are often not included.

Cost Analysis: South Korea vs. Global Medical Tourism

Estimated Costs of Cheekbone Reduction Surgery in South Korea

South Korea offers competitive prices, usually 20-50% less than in the US, Australia, or parts of Europe. Generally, zygomatic reduction costs range between $3,784 and $12,900 USD, with most patients paying $4,000–$9,000 USD for comprehensive care. Initial surgery consultation fees are usually $100–$150 USD.

What’s Typically Included in Korean Surgery Packages

Packages for international clients may offer:

• Surgical and anesthesia fees
• Pre-op consultations and imaging
• Medications
• Interpreter services
• Clinic transfers and, sometimes, a limited hotel stay

However, these don’t always include airfare or extended accommodation—always confirm details.

Estimated Cheekbone Reduction Costs: South Korea vs. Other Countries (USD)

Here’s how costs compare:

Table 3: Estimated Cheekbone Reduction Costs: South Korea vs. Other Countries (USD)

Country	Estimated Cost Range (USD)
South Korea	$3,784 - $12,900
Turkey	$1,448 - $7,800
USA	From $5,000; avg $4,194; max $7,800
Mexico	From $4,712
Thailand	From $3,720

Factors Influencing the Overall Cost

Several things can affect pricing:

• Surgeon and clinic reputation
• Surgical complexity and additional face procedures
• Surgical technique and anesthesia type
• Post-op medications and follow-up care
• Package inclusions and travel expenses

Combining procedures (like jaw or chin reshaping) significantly increases overall costs.

Patient Outcomes and Addressing Concerns

Expected Aesthetic Outcomes

Patients can expect a softer, more harmonious, and elongated facial contour after zygoma reduction. The permanent reshaping reduces width and angularity and aims for a more feminine profile or heart-shaped face, depending on the patient’s wishes.

Addressing Specific Patient Concerns: “Cheeks Protrude Creating Wide Face”

This surgery is specifically designed to resolve concerns about “cheeks protrude creating wide face” by narrowing the lateral projection of your cheekbones. For many, this transformation brings increased confidence and satisfaction.

Preventing Post-Operative Sagging and Complications

Korean clinics emphasize soft tissue suspension and secure fixation—key advancements that minimize the risk of facial sagging or premature aging. Risks like poor healing, infection, nerve damage, asymmetry, and bone non-union are rare but possible, and can be mitigated by careful surgeon selection, detailed pre-surgery planning, and diligent aftercare. Discuss all potential risks with your provider to set realistic expectations.

Conclusion

Prominent cheekbones can make the face appear wide and angular, prompting many to seek zygoma reduction for a more harmonious look. Korean clinics excel at this surgery, blending advanced bone repositioning and soft tissue techniques to prevent sagging and deliver natural results. South Korea also offers competitive pricing and strong support infrastructure for medical tourists—just be sure to clarify all package details and expectations. With expert care and thoughtful planning, cheekbone reduction can be a safe, satisfying path to lasting facial balance.

References

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29