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Surgery · 광대축소

Cheekbone (Zygoma) Reduction Surgery

Bone surgery that moves wide or projecting cheekbones inward to soften the midface width.

Quick facts
  • Korean name: 광대축소
  • Procedure time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
  • Anesthesia: General anesthesia
  • Sessions: 1
  • Downtime: 2 to 3 weeks of visible swelling
  • Results: Shape clearer at 1 month; final at 3 to 6 months
  • Lasts: Permanent
  • Typical price: ₩5,000,000–₩7,500,000 (per surgery, before VAT)

What is Zygoma (Cheekbone) Reduction?

Zygoma reduction (광대축소) reduces both the front projection of the cheekbone and the side arch that makes the face look wide. It is one of the three classic Korean facial contouring operations.

Most techniques need two small incisions: one inside the mouth above the upper teeth and one hidden in the sideburn.

How it works

The surgeon makes an L-shaped or similar cut through the cheekbone body and a second cut at the back of the arch, then moves the freed segment inward and fixes it with a plate and screws. Some techniques shave the front bone instead for mainly frontal prominence.

Who it suits

  • Wide midface from the front view
  • Prominent front cheekbones
  • Side arches that stick out beyond the temples

Who should skip it or wait

  • Patients with thin, sagging cheeks, who may look older afterwards
  • People whose width comes from fat or muscle
  • Smokers unwilling to stop

Side effects and risks

  • Cheek sagging (especially with older or thin skin)
  • Bone non-union or segment shifting
  • Asymmetry
  • Temporary numbness of the cheek and upper lip
  • Hollow temples becoming more visible

Aftercare

  • Wear the face band as instructed
  • Avoid chewing hard foods for 4 weeks
  • No sleeping face-down
  • Return for sideburn stitch removal around day 7

Planning around your trip

Plan 10 to 14 days in Seoul for the hospital night, sideburn stitch removal on day 7 and a follow-up before you fly.

Plastic Surgery clinics near Apgujeong

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

Zygoma (Cheekbone) Reduction price in Apgujeong

₩5,000,000–₩7,500,000
per surgery, before VAT

Typical range at clinics around Apgujeong, Sinsa and Cheongdam, checked 2026-10. Source: Korea Experience, Korea Plastic Surgery Cost Guide 2026. Cosmetic treatments in Korea carry 10% VAT; ask whether a quote includes it.

Zygoma (Cheekbone) Reduction questions

Will my cheeks sag afterwards?

Sagging is a known risk because the bone that supports soft tissue is moved. Good fixation and, for some patients, a simultaneous lift reduce it.

Why is there an incision in my sideburn?

The back of the arch is hard to reach from the mouth, so a 1 cm incision in the hair is used to cut it. It is usually not noticeable.

Can I combine it with jaw surgery?

Yes, cheekbone, jaw angle and chin are often done together as '3-part contouring'. Recovery is longer and the hospital stay may be 2 nights.

Will this make my temples look hollow?

Narrower cheekbones can make existing temple hollows stand out. Fat grafting or filler in the temples is often discussed at consultation.

How soon can I smile and chew normally?

Smiling is fine after a few days. Most surgeons want soft food for 4 weeks to protect the fixation.

How many nights in hospital?

Usually 1 night. If combined with jaw or chin surgery, 1 to 2 nights.

Plan your visit

Get a quote before you fly

Send the treatment, your dates and any past procedures. We reply in English with options, prices and clinic locations near Apgujeong Station.