What causes sunken cheeks?

Sunken cheeks are primarily caused by age-related loss of facial fat and collagen, but can also result from genetics, significant weight loss, lifestyle factors such as poor nutrition or sun exposure, certain medical conditions, medications, and bone density loss. A thorough medical consultation is essential to determine the underlying cause.

What are the common treatment options for sunken cheeks in Korea?

Treatment options include facial fillers (like hyaluronic acid and PLLA), face fat grafting using your own fat, Juvelook collagen booster injections, and cheekbone implants. Each procedure varies in invasiveness, longevity, and results, allowing personalized options for patients.

How do dermal fillers work for sunken cheeks?

Dermal fillers, often containing hyaluronic acid, are injected beneath the skin to restore volume and smooth facial contours. They work quickly, providing immediate results, with effects lasting from six months to two years depending on the material used.

What is face fat grafting and its benefits?

Face fat grafting involves harvesting your own fat from areas like the abdomen or thighs, purified, and then injected into hollow cheeks. It offers natural, long-lasting volume enhancement, improves skin quality, and has a high biocompatibility since the fat is autologous.

What is Juvelook collagen booster and how does it work?

Juvelook is a South Korean hybrid biostimulator combining poly D,L-lactic acid (PDLLA) and hyaluronic acid (HA). It provides immediate hydration and volume from HA, while PDLLA stimulates collagen production over time, leading to firmer, more youthful skin for up to 12-18 months.

Are cheekbone implants a permanent solution?

Yes, cheekbone implants made of medical-grade silicone or porous polyethylene are a permanent solution that enhances facial bone structure and adds volume. They provide a highly customizable result, though surgical risks like infection or asymmetry should be considered.

What is the process for undergoing aesthetic procedures in South Korea?

International patients typically research licensed clinics with skilled surgeons, consult online or upon arrival, and undergo procedures that usually involve minimal downtime. South Korea offers advanced treatments, competitive pricing, and comprehensive support to facilitate a seamless experience from consultation to recovery.

How much do these procedures cost in South Korea compared to other countries?

Facial fillers cost approximately $200–$450 per treatment, fat grafting ranges from $806–$4,431, Juvelook booster treatments are about $300–$1,033, and cheekbone implants typically cost $3,790–$6,890. Korea offers competitive pricing with high-quality care, often at lower or similar costs compared to the USA and Europe.

What are patient experiences with these treatments in Korea?

Patients report quick results, minimal discomfort, and natural-looking enhancements. Natural fat transfer and collagen stimulators provide long-term benefits, while implants offer permanent changes. Overall, treatments in Korea are highly regarded for safety, expertise, and outcomes.

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Blogs›Sunken Cheeks Solutions in Korea: Facial Filler, Face Fat Grafting, Juvelook Collagen Booster & Cheekbone Implant

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Sunken Cheeks Solutions in Korea: Facial Filler, Face Fat Grafting, Juvelook Collagen Booster & Cheekbone Implant

Thursday, Dec 4, 2025

Understanding Sunken Cheeks
Detailed Medical Procedures for Sunken Cheeks
Best Clinics in Korea for Sunken Cheeks
Undergoing Procedures in South Korea: A Medical Tourist's Guide
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!

Sunken cheeks—often called the "hollow midface creating an aged look"—are a common concern for those looking to maintain a youthful appearance. This aesthetic issue is more than skin deep, influencing both the way people are perceived and how they feel about themselves. In this guide, we cover the causes behind sunken cheeks, explore the leading medical procedures available, and offer practical insights into pursuing treatment in South Korea. Our aim is to present clear, accurate information to help patients make well-informed choices on their aesthetic journey.

Understanding Sunken Cheeks

Definition and Common Pseudonyms

Sunken cheeks are characterized by a noticeable hollowness or lack of volume in the cheek area, resulting in a flattened or gaunt facial appearance. This condition often disrupts overall facial harmony and accentuates lines and shadows, making individuals appear older or more fatigued. In clinical and cosmetic settings, the terms "hollow cheeks," "hollow midface," "depleted of volume," and "gaunt appearance" are frequently used to describe this condition.

Causes and Contributing Factors

The main culprit behind sunken cheeks is age-related loss of facial fat and collagen, which are essential for skin’s volume and elasticity. As we get older, natural declines in collagen, elastin, and muscle mass make cheeks appear hollow and skin look less firm. However, a variety of other factors can also play a role, including:

Genetics: A natural tendency towards thinner facial features or less cheek fat.
Weight Loss: Significant weight loss can make the face appear gaunt.
Lifestyle Factors: Poor nutrition, dehydration, smoking, excessive sun exposure, extreme exercise, and poor sleep can accelerate facial aging.
Medical Conditions: Chronic diseases (like cancer, HIV-associated lipoatrophy, autoimmune issues, eating disorders, and tuberculosis) can cause visible facial fat loss.
Medications and Treatments: Some drugs (including those affecting hormones and metabolism) as well as chemotherapy may redistribute fat.
Bone Loss: Gradual bone density loss in the cheekbones and skull reduces support and hints at aging.

Because so many factors can lead to sunken cheeks, a medical consultation is essential. A thorough evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional will help clarify whether aesthetic treatment is appropriate and safe, or if an underlying health issue needs attention.

Table 1: Common Pseudonyms for Sunken Cheeks

Term	Description
Sunken Cheeks	Cheeks appearing hollow or depleted of volume
Hollow Cheeks	Emphasizes lack of fullness
Hollow Midface	Central face lacking volume, contributes to aged appearance
Gaunt Appearance	Thin, drawn, or emaciated look, often linked to volume loss
Depleted Cheeks	Highlights tissue and fat reduction in the cheeks

Detailed Medical Procedures for Sunken Cheeks

Facial Fillers

Lip Fillers, Nose Filler, Juvelook Volume Filler, Collagen Filler, Marionette Line Filler, Smile Line Filler, Under Eye Filler, Radiesse Filler, Forehead Filler, Facial Filler, Chin Filler

Description, Materials, and Mechanism of Action

Dermal fillers, usually containing hyaluronic acid (HA), are injected beneath the skin to restore volume and smooth facial contours. Other common materials include calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), and polymethylmethacrylate. Hyaluronic acid fillers act quickly to plump treated areas by attracting water, while PLLA-based fillers stimulate your own collagen production for longer-lasting effects.

Expected Outcomes, Side Effects, and Longevity

Results are usually visible immediately, with swelling and redness subsiding within a week or two. Mild side effects like bruising, tenderness, and small lumps at injection sites are common but temporary. Depending on the filler type and area treated, effects last six months to two years—necessitating periodic repeat sessions (“filler fatigue”) to maintain results.

Face Fat Grafting

Description, Materials, and Mechanism of Action

Face fat grafting transfers your own fat from donor sites like the abdomen or thighs into hollow facial areas. The process involves fat harvesting, purification, and careful reinjection. Because the fat comes from your body (autologous fat), it is highly biocompatible. Fat grafts also contain stem cells that can rejuvenate skin and underlying tissue. Nano fat grafting uses finer fat particles for improved blending and potential cell survival.

Expected Outcomes, Side Effects, and Longevity

Patients enjoy natural, lasting volume and improved skin quality post-surgery. Swelling, bruising, and soreness are expected, and complications such as fat necrosis or cysts are rare. Not all transferred fat survives—typically 30-70% is reabsorbed—so revision sessions may be needed. Whatever fat survives is considered permanent, and results continue to improve as the fat establishes a blood supply.

Juvelook Collagen Booster

Rejuran Healer, Skin Booster Exosome, Skin Booster, Lilied Skin Booster, Collagen Booster, Collagen injection, Juvelook Collagen Booster

Description, Key Ingredients, and Mechanism of Action

Juvelook is a hybrid biostimulator developed in South Korea, blending poly D,L-lactic acid (PDLLA) with hyaluronic acid (HA). PDLLA prompts your body to manufacture more collagen, while HA provides instant hydration and volume. HA’s filling effects are immediate, but as it slowly dissolves, the PDLLA works behind the scenes to firm and brighten skin over several months.

Benefits, Side Effects, and Longevity

Juvelook improves fine lines, deep wrinkles, elasticity, and even under-eye hollows, with benefits for pore size and acne scars. Side effects are generally mild—swelling, bruising, or small bumps—which resolve quickly. Effects from a single session last 3-6 months, while a series of three treatments can extend benefits up to 12-18 months or longer, thanks to collagen’s ongoing remodeling.

Cheekbone Implants

Description, Materials, and Mechanism of Action

Cheekbone implants offer a permanent solution by surgically inserting solid materials (usually medical-grade silicone or porous polyethylene/Medpor®) to augment the cheekbones. There are submalar, malar, and combination types for targeting different facial areas. Implants directly enhance facial bone structure, providing volume and definition that mimic natural youthfulness.

Benefits, Risks, and Longevity

Permanent and highly customizable, cheek implants correct significant volume loss or congenital flatness. The incisions are typically hidden inside the mouth, preventing visible external scarring. Risks include infection (about 3%), numbness, possible implant migration, or asymmetry. Precision in planning and placement is critical, underscoring the need for an experienced surgeon.

Table 2: Procedure Comparison for Sunken Cheeks

Feature	Facial Fillers	Face Fat Grafting	Juvelook Collagen Booster	Cheekbone Implants
Primary Material	HA, CaHa, PLLA, PMMA	Autologous Fat	PDLLA + HA	Silicone, Porous Polyethylene
Mechanism	Volume/collagen boost	Volume + skin regeneration	Hydration + collagen	Permanent bone augmentation
Invasiveness	Non-surgical	Minimally invasive surgery	Minimally invasive	Surgical
Longevity	6 mos – 2 yrs	Permanent (variable rate)	3-6 mos (single); up to 2 yrs	Permanent (removable if needed)
Benefits	Immediate, quick, custom	Natural, regenerative	Dual-action, minimal downtime	Longevity, high definition
Drawbacks/Risks	Temporary, lumps, cost	Absorption, surgical risks	Multiple sessions, bumps	Surgery risks, less flexibility

Best Clinics in Korea for Sunken Cheeks

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for sunken cheeks:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Best-in-class facial contouring expertise for sunken cheeks; full spectrum of midface volumization options in one place; Harmony-first planning; Leadership you can trust; Academic and educational engine; Safe, seamless care pathway; Structural and soft-tissue mastery	Dr. Kim’s award-winning research in 3D implants and authority in facial bone surgery for malar/submalar augmentation; Full spectrum of midface volumization options in one place: facial fat grafting, fillers, and facial implants allow tailored plans for natural-looking volume restoration and durable cheek definition; Harmony-first planning: Dr. Kim’s focus on balanced features and Dr. Jeong’s function-and-beauty ethos help avoid an overfilled look, ensuring cheeks complement the nose, eyes, and jawline; Leadership you can trust: Dr. Jeong serves as President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons; the team is board certified, active in top societies (including international bodies), and is regularly invited for presentations and live surgeries around the world; Academic and educational engine: the surgeons publish in scholarly texts, run annual training for peers, and continue global knowledge-sharing via webinars—keeping sunken-cheek treatments aligned with the latest advances; Safe, seamless care pathway: a dedicated four-floor facility supports consultation, surgery, and post-operative skincare with experienced professionals who prioritize safety and patient satisfaction; Structural and soft-tissue mastery: combined expertise in cheekbone surgery, facial implants, and fat grafting enables solutions that address both bony contour and soft-tissue volume—key to lasting correction of sunken cheeks.
Cellinique Clinic	Premium one-doctor stem cell clinic specializing in immunity, regeneration, and the restoration of natural health and beauty—ideal for patients seeking sophisticated, science-driven solutions for sunken cheeks; Led by Dr. Chris Gunwoo Kim, a renowned expert in stem cell medicine, with cutting-edge scholarship; 2024 Asia lecture tour on High-Concentration Blood Cell Zone and Stem Cell Inducing Factor (SDF-1alpha) Injection; spoke at the Aesthetic Medicine Update Seminar and Exhibition in Jakarta; scheduled for the 2024 K-Med Expo & Saigon Int’l Meditech Show in Ho Chi Minh City; lectured at the Korean Society of Dermatology, Obesity, and Aesthetic Medicine on “Blood Stem Cells: The Simplest Approach to Anti-Aging and Tissue Regeneration,” and in 2025 presented Cellinique’s proprietary NovaStem Kit—a minimally manipulated cell biotechnology for anti-aging—at the Spring Conference of KOAT.	NovaStem: concentrates autologous blood to activate aged cells and regenerate damaged tissues for improved elasticity; stem cell therapy and exosomes to enhance tissue repair; PRP for biologic stimulation; precision volumization with Radiesse, hyaluronic acid fillers, and stem cell fat grafting to rebuild contours while inducing collagen and elastin; adjunct modalities such as Juvelook and thread lifting can further refine structure and firmness.
Haru Clinic	World-class filler expertise; Natural-looking design; Transformative non-invasive results; Hyaluronic acid cheek fillers: Belotero; Thread Lift for midface support; Collagen Tightening; Balanced facial rejuvenation; Full-spectrum care in Sinsa	World-class filler expertise: Dr. Jeong’s Merz research role and physician training background ensure precise, safe volumization for sunken cheeks; Natural-looking design: Every plan is customized to harmonize midface proportions for a subtly refreshed appearance; Transformative non-invasive results: Advanced methods deliver surgical-like improvement with minimal downtime and lasting effect; Hyaluronic acid cheek fillers: Immediate, adjustable restoration of midface volume and contour using premium fillers such as Belotero; Thread Lift for midface support: Minimally invasive threads elevate sagging cheeks and jawline while stimulating collagen for firmer skin; Collagen Tightening: Energy-based radiofrequency or ultrasound improves cheek firmness and elasticity without incisions; Balanced facial rejuvenation: Options such as Double Chin Lift can refine the neck angle and jawline to enhance overall harmony with fuller cheeks; Full-spectrum care in Sinsa: Personalized, minimally invasive and surgical treatments are available to match each patient’s goals and anatomy.

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, Seoul, is a four-floor, world-class center that delivers a seamless experience from consultation through surgery and post-operative skincare. Led by internationally recognized surgeons who actively publish in journals and books and lecture at global symposiums, the clinic is renowned for excellence in rhinoplasty and facial contouring—expertise that directly translates to refined, natural midface rejuvenation. Dr. Kim, a board-certified plastic surgeon and award-winning researcher in 3D implants, and Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, embody a philosophy that balances function and beauty, ensuring results that enhance each person’s unique features. With more than a decade of experience per specialist, a commitment to safety, and clear, personalized communication, THEPLUS offers trusted, high-level care for patients seeking elegant, long-lasting facial harmony.

Best-in-class facial contouring expertise for sunken cheeks: Dr. Kim’s award-winning research in 3D implants and authority in facial bone surgery support precise malar/submalar augmentation when structural enhancement is indicated.
Full spectrum of midface volumization options in one place: facial fat grafting, fillers, and facial implants allow tailored plans for natural-looking volume restoration and durable cheek definition.
Harmony-first planning: Dr. Kim’s focus on balanced features and Dr. Jeong’s function-and-beauty ethos help avoid an overfilled look, ensuring cheeks complement the nose, eyes, and jawline.
Leadership you can trust: Dr. Jeong serves as President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons; the team is board certified, active in top societies (including international bodies), and is regularly invited for presentations and live surgeries around the world.
Academic and educational engine: the surgeons publish in scholarly texts, run annual training for peers, and continue global knowledge-sharing via webinars—keeping sunken-cheek treatments aligned with the latest advances.
Safe, seamless care pathway: a dedicated four-floor facility supports consultation, surgery, and post-operative skincare with experienced professionals who prioritize safety and patient satisfaction.
Structural and soft-tissue mastery: combined expertise in cheekbone surgery, facial implants, and fat grafting enables solutions that address both bony contour and soft-tissue volume—key to lasting correction of sunken cheeks.

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

Zygoma Reduction & Square Jaw Reduction & Fat Grafting & Non-incisional Double Eyelid Surgery & Breast Augmentation

Cellinique Clinic

Cellinique Clinic in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, is a premium one-doctor stem cell clinic specializing in immunity, regeneration, and the restoration of natural health and beauty—ideal for patients seeking sophisticated, science-driven solutions for sunken cheeks. Led by Dr. Chris Gunwoo Kim, a renowned expert in stem cell medicine, the clinic’s leadership is grounded in cutting-edge scholarship: in 2024 he joined an Asia lecture tour on “High-Concentration Blood Cell Zone and Stem Cell Inducing Factor (SDF-1alpha) Injection,” spoke at the Aesthetic Medicine Update Seminar and Exhibition in Jakarta, and is scheduled for the 2024 K-Med Expo & Saigon Int’l Meditech Show in Ho Chi Minh City. He also lectured at the Korean Society of Dermatology, Obesity, and Aesthetic Medicine on “Blood Stem Cells: The Simplest Approach to Anti-Aging and Tissue Regeneration,” and in 2025 presented Cellinique’s proprietary NovaStem Kit—a minimally manipulated cell biotechnology for anti-aging—at the Spring Conference of the Korean Obesity and Aesthetic Treatment Society (KOAT).

For sunken cheeks, Cellinique delivers 100% personalized care that combines advanced stem cell technology with complementary treatments to restore midface volume and skin quality. Options include NovaStem, which utilizes concentrated autologous blood to activate aged cells and regenerate damaged tissues for improved elasticity; stem cell therapy and exosomes to enhance tissue repair; PRP for biologic stimulation; and precision volumization with Radiesse, hyaluronic acid fillers, and stem cell fat grafting to rebuild contours while inducing collagen and elastin. Adjunct modalities such as Juvelook and thread lifting can further refine structure and firmness. This integrated, evidence-informed approach targets both the cause of volume loss and the quality of overlying skin, delivering natural-looking rejuvenation tailored to each patient.

You can check out their website here: Cellinique Clinic Website

Haru Clinic

Haru Clinic in Sinsa, Seoul, is a destination for personalized, minimally invasive and surgical aesthetic treatments for the face and body. Led by Dr. Jeong—an official research physician at Merz, the renowned company behind Belotero filler—who teaches other doctors the latest filler techniques, the clinic focuses on carefully designing each patient’s face to create harmony and balance through non-invasive methods. For sunken cheeks, Haru emphasizes natural, refreshed results tailored to individual features, using advanced approaches that achieve transformative, long-lasting outcomes comparable to invasive surgery with minimal downtime.

World-class filler expertise: Dr. Jeong’s Merz research role and physician training background ensure precise, safe volumization for sunken cheeks.
Natural-looking design: Every plan is customized to harmonize midface proportions for a subtly refreshed appearance.
Transformative non-invasive results: Advanced methods deliver surgical-like improvement with minimal downtime and lasting effect.
Hyaluronic acid cheek fillers: Immediate, adjustable restoration of midface volume and contour using premium fillers such as Belotero.
Thread Lift for midface support: Minimally invasive threads elevate sagging cheeks and jawline while stimulating collagen for firmer skin.
Collagen Tightening: Energy-based radiofrequency or ultrasound improves cheek firmness and elasticity without incisions.
Balanced facial rejuvenation: Options such as Double Chin Lift can refine the neck angle and jawline to enhance overall harmony with fuller cheeks.
Full-spectrum care in Sinsa: Personalized, minimally invasive and surgical treatments are available to match each patient’s goals and anatomy.

You can check out their website here: Haru Clinic Website

Undergoing Procedures in South Korea: A Medical Tourist's Guide

General Process for Medical Tourists in South Korea

South Korea is a global leader in cosmetic surgery, thanks to its advanced techniques, skilled specialists, and attractive pricing. International patients benefit from well-established medical tourism support, offering help from clinic selection to recovery arrangements.

Research and Clinic Selection: Choose a clinic licensed by the Ministry of Health and Welfare and a KSPRS-certified surgeon. Look for clinics with multilingual staff and transparent reviews.
Booking Surgery: Initial assessments are often conducted online, and support agencies can help with bookings and travel logistics.
Preparation: Ensure your travel paperwork is in order, declare medical history, and arrange insurance covering surgical complications.
Arrival and Consultation: In-person consultations confirm the plan; advanced imaging may be used. Clinics provide recovery schedules, garments, and medication.
Recovery: Most patients stay in Korea for at least 10-14 days. Post-surgery care is structured and comprehensive.

Travel tips include avoiding peak months, skipping strenuous activity after procedures, and using translation services or clinic-arranged taxis for convenience and safety.