The Cheekbone Reduction Procedure
Zygomatic remodelling is a highly effective procedure for men and women who feel that their face appears too broad. It is also popular with Asian patients to reduce facial width. The face looks slimmer and facial balance is improved.
Surgery Time
2 – 3 hours
Anaesthetic
General
Hospital Stay
Day case or one night hospital stay if required
Time Off Work
1 – 2 weeks
Full Recovery
4 – 6 weeks
An operation to narrow the zygomatic bones can be used to reduce lateral protrusion of the cheekbone (Zygoma). This is the diamond-shaped bone that is situated below and lateral to the eye socket at the broadest part of the cheek.This remodelling of the malar complex or zygoma can be used to alter the facial width and can be a powerful way to slim the overall facial shape and change the appearance of the facial form.
Mr Juling Ong’s expertise as a facial reconstructive surgeon means he is highly skilled in producing a subtle improvement that achieves a more attractive appearance to the mid-face, with minimal scarring that should not be noticeable when fully healed. Mr Juling Ong will carefully plan the procedure to adjust the cheek’s projection, shape and volume, taking into account your other facial features.
Mr Juling Ong’s facial expertise as a reconstructive surgeon means he is highly skilled in producing a harmonious and natural result. Each patient has a unique facial structure and different concerns, and Mr Ong will give you unbiased, expert advice and ensure you have realistic expectations from surgery.
During a cheekbone osteotomy, the zygomatic arch is cut, and the cheekbone is rotated inward and fixed into position with a titanium plate and screws. The procedure typically takes 2 to 3 hours and is performed under a general anaesthetic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cheekbone reduction surgery?
Cheekbone reduction surgery (zygoma reduction) reduces the width and projection of prominent cheekbones by reshaping the zygomatic bone. This creates a slimmer, less wide facial appearance. It is a technically demanding procedure requiring a thorough understanding of facial anatomy and careful surgical planning.
Who is typically seeking cheekbone reduction?
Cheekbone reduction is most commonly sought by patients who feel their face is too wide at the midface level due to prominent cheekbones. It is particularly requested in the context of East and Southeast Asian facial aesthetics, where a softer, less angular midface is often preferred. It may also be sought by Western patients with very prominent zygomatic arches who feel this feature is too dominant.
How is cheekbone reduction performed?
Incisions are made inside the mouth and in the hairline at the temple to allow access to the zygomatic arch and body without visible external scarring. The bone is osteotomised (cut) and repositioned or reduced as required. Metal fixation plates may be used to stabilise the repositioned segments.
What is the recovery from cheekbone reduction?
Swelling is significant and a major feature of recovery, which can last six months to one year before the result is apparent. Most patients take three to four weeks off work. A soft diet is required for four to six weeks. The face may appear disproportionately swollen before the result settles.
When can I return to normal activities after zygomatic reduction surgery?
Patients can usually return to work between one to two weeks after surgery. You will be advised to avoid strenuous exercise and physical activity for up to six weeks after surgery.
What are the risks of cheekbone reduction?
Risks include asymmetry, nerve injury (particularly to the zygomatic and infraorbital branches of the facial and trigeminal nerves), infection, hardware-related complications, and the need for revision. This is a complex craniofacial procedure and should be performed by a surgeon with specific experience in facial skeletal surgery.
Can cheekbone reduction be combined with jaw reduction?
Yes. These two procedures are frequently performed together in patients seeking a comprehensive softening of the facial silhouette. Combined zygoma and mandible reduction is a well-established combination in Asian facial contouring surgery. Mr Juling Ong will plan both procedures together using imaging to ensure a harmonious overall result.
During your consultation, Mr Juling Ong will explain all potential risks and discuss your treatment options in full. Please call us on 020 7927 6528 or email us at info@julingong.com to arrange an appointment.
