We recently conducted a consultation for a patient seeking revision zygoma surgery in our clinic. This patient had undergone zygoma surgery twice before: the first in China and the second in Korea. However, even after these surgeries, they experienced significant discomfort due to asymmetry, non-union of the bone, and overly reduced cheekbones.
We thoroughly analyzed the patient's condition by reviewing the CT scan results together. Numerous fixation pins were embedded around the zygoma due to previous surgeries. Specifically, more than 7 pins were found in the posterior zygoma area alone, totaling over 10 pins when including the anterior part. The problem was that despite these many pins, the bone had not properly united and was separated both anteriorly and posteriorly. This indicated that the zygoma was unstable due to bone non-union. The left zygoma was more severely protruded than the right, and overall facial asymmetry was prominent.
Complexity and Approach to Revision Zygoma Surgery
As this was the third zygoma surgery, the revision was anticipated to be highly complex. The core challenges included removing the existing complex pins, precisely repositioning the non-united bone, and improving facial asymmetry. Beyond simply reducing the bone, a delicate approach that considered the overall harmony of the face was essential.
At On Clinic, we accurately identify the patient's individual skeletal structure and problems through 3D CT analysis, and based on this, we establish a customized surgical plan. We particularly focused on precisely identifying the non-union site of the zygoma and re-fixing the bone while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.
"This third surgery is incredibly challenging, but I believe the results will be good. We will do our best!" I strived to provide the patient with the best possible and satisfying outcome.
Surgical Results: Asymmetry Improvement and Bone Union
Remarkable changes were observed in the post-operative CT scans.
- Zygoma Reduction: The previously protruding zygoma moved naturally inward, aligning with the orbital bone line. While the zygoma used to extend beyond the joint, the orbital bone now defines the widest part of the face. Overall, the zygoma area appears to have been reduced by more than one-third, nearly half.
- Asymmetry Improvement: The asymmetry between the left and right zygomas was significantly improved, restoring overall facial balance.
- Complete Bone Union: The most critical issue of non-union was resolved. The previously existing bone gaps (non-union) were confirmed to have completely fused, achieving a stable state. This contributes significantly not only to the patient's functional recovery but also to their aesthetic satisfaction.
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Compared to pre-operative photos, the patient was highly satisfied with their much smoother and smaller facial line. They were particularly delighted that the bone had fully united, eliminating any further instability.
Such complex revision zygoma surgery requires not just bone-shaping techniques, but also profound knowledge and extensive experience in understanding the entire facial structure and harmony. On Clinic continuously researches and strives to accurately diagnose each patient's unique condition and provide optimal results through safe and effective surgery.
On Clinic Dr. Myungjun Oh | Last Reviewed 2026-05-23