A patient visited On Clinic for revision cheekbone surgery after her face became wide and severely asymmetrical following a previous cheekbone surgery. She must have been very concerned about the changes that appeared after her first surgery. In such cases, accurate diagnosis and a precise surgical plan are paramount.
Why is Revision Cheekbone Surgery Necessary?
It is often reported that after initial cheekbone surgery, the face may appear wide or asymmetry may worsen. This can be due to the cheekbones not being sufficiently gathered inward, or conversely, spreading outward towards the back, which widens the face. Specifically, the face may appear wide in frontal photos, but this might not be easily perceived from certain angles, such as in selfies.
In this patient's case, the right cheekbone was more widely spread than the left, resulting in severe asymmetry. 3D CT analysis revealed that the posterior cheekbones were excessively spread, causing left-right asymmetry in the facial contour. In such a state, the face can appear generally wide and flat.
On Clinic's Approach to Revision Cheekbone Surgery
At On Clinic, we aim for surgery that goes beyond simply shaving bone, considering the overall three-dimensionality and balance of the entire face. To improve the patient's wide face and asymmetry, we focused on the following key improvements:
- Mid-face Reduction and Cheekbone Repositioning: We repositioned the depressed cheekbones outward to visually reduce the mid-face and add three-dimensionality to the face.
- Correction of Spread Cheekbones: We reduced the inner space of the widely spread posterior cheekbones to narrow the overall facial width and create a smooth, straight cheekbone line.
- Asymmetry Improvement: We precisely adjusted the degree of spread of the left and right cheekbones to maximize the improvement of facial asymmetry.
Revision cheekbone surgery requires more delicate and advanced techniques than the initial surgery. It is crucial to accurately understand the altered bone structure and soft tissue condition from the previous surgery and to provide an optimal solution tailored to the individual's facial characteristics.
In my consultation room, I thoroughly explained the surgical plan to the patient while reviewing 3D CT images together. The patient expressed her anticipation for the improved appearance, and I also strived my best to deliver a satisfactory outcome. The surgery was successfully performed, and we were able to achieve the three-dimensional and balanced face shape the patient desired.
Expected Post-Surgery Effects
Through this approach, after surgery, the eyes can visually appear larger, and the face as a whole can become smaller, more three-dimensional, and gathered, leading to a more refined and harmonious impression. By bringing the widely spread bones inward, the facial contour transforms into a more harmonious appearance.
Revision cheekbone surgery should focus not just on reducing bone, but on restoring the overall harmony and naturalness of the entire face. Ultimately, the goal is to improve facial width and asymmetry, creating a more refined and satisfying impression. If you are considering revision cheekbone surgery, it is crucial to consult thoroughly with a specialist who has extensive experience and expertise to find the most suitable method for you.
Dr. Myungjun Oh, On Clinic | Last reviewed 2026-05-23