Midface Zygoma Surgery: It's Not Just About the Cheekbones
Many people believe that a wide or asymmetrical face is simply due to large or protruding cheekbones. However, through the precise diagnosis conducted at On Clinic, many are surprised by unexpected findings. The patient in this video, for example, had a small face but was concerned about a wide midface and protruding cheekbones. Yet, CT analysis revealed that the actual size of both cheekbones was not significantly different. The issue was the degree of cheekbone protrusion, left-right asymmetry, and the length of the midface.
The Importance of Cheekbone 'Position and Shape,' Not Just Size
Analyzing the patient's CT scan, it was observed that the left anterior zygoma was broadly sunken, and the 45-degree zygoma was excessively prominent. This was a complex issue that could not be resolved by simply reducing the cheekbones. At On Clinic, in such cases, we apply a unique surgical method that naturally repositions the protruding 45-degree zygoma area downwards, below the eyes, to create a straight cheekbone line. This approach is a delicate one that goes beyond mere cheekbone reduction, considering the overall facial proportions and three-dimensionality.
"The cheekbones are not the cause. Asymmetry is not caused by the cheekbones either. We reposition the protruding 45-degree zygoma downwards, below the eyes, to create a straight cheekbone line." — Dr. Myungjun Oh
This surgical method simultaneously brings several positive effects:
- Temple Area Reduction: As the prominent cheekbones are repositioned, the temple area naturally reduces, narrowing the overall face width.
- Creation of Voluminous Anterior Zygoma: Adjusting the cheekbone position adds volume to the anterior zygoma, creating a more youthful and vibrant impression.
- Facial Asymmetry Improvement: By adjusting the degree of cheekbone protrusion, which causes left-right asymmetry, facial balance is restored.
- Midface Length Shortening: The midface appears shorter overall, making the face look smaller and more youthful.
- Overall Proportion Improvement: Each part of the face harmonizes, completing an ideal facial proportion.
As such, one surgery can achieve multiple effects, which Dr. Myungjun Oh described as the "Five-in-One Effect." The patient was very satisfied with this explanation and expressed anticipation for the surgery.
1-Month Post-Surgery Update: Rapid Recovery and Additional Care
One month after the surgery, the patient revisited On Clinic to check on her progress and received a Titanium treatment. Titanium treatment helps with skin contraction and provides a lifting effect, contributing to a more elastic facial line. Dr. Myungjun Oh gave a very positive assessment of the patient's recovery.
"She looks so beautiful! Her face is as small as a fist! The bones have almost completely fused now." — Dr. Myungjun Oh
CT scans also confirmed that the bones in the surgical area were fusing remarkably quickly. This is a synergistic result of On Clinic's precise surgical techniques and the patient's diligent post-operative care.
Post-surgical swelling varies by individual, but generally, swelling in the upper face subsides quickly, while it tends to decrease more slowly in the lower face. This can make the face appear longer or more swollen initially. In the patient's case, the swelling on the right side of her face subsided less, making the asymmetry temporarily appear more severe. However, Dr. Oh reassured her that this is a natural part of the recovery process and that with consistent skin contraction device management, her face would become as small as a fist within a year. Consistent care can lead to faster and more satisfying results.
Midface Zygoma Surgery: On Clinic's Differentiated Approach
On Clinic's midface zygoma surgery is not simply about shaving bone. We focus on meticulously analyzing each patient's facial structure and proportions to achieve the most harmonious and natural results. Specifically, surgical plans are established considering the degree of protrusion and harmony with surrounding tissues, rather than just the size of the cheekbones.
Precise Surgical Techniques and Safe Recovery
Based on years of extensive clinical experience and expertise, Dr. Myungjun Oh performs surgery with minimal incision and precise dissection. This shortens operating time, minimizes bleeding, reduces patient burden, and aids in rapid recovery. Furthermore, we provide customized post-operative care programs to promote bone fusion and prevent skin sagging, ensuring patients achieve optimal results.
- 3D CT Precision Analysis: Before surgery, 3D CT scans accurately identify the structure of facial bones and nerve pathways, enabling the creation of a safe and precise surgical plan.
- Personalized Design: A 1:1 customized surgical design is created, considering the patient's unique facial features and desired improvements.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Our skilled medical team performs surgery with minimal incision and dissection, reducing pain and swelling and shortening recovery time.
- Systematic Post-Operative Care: Comprehensive post-operative care programs, including swelling management and skin contraction care, aid in fast and safe recovery and enhance satisfaction.
On Clinic continuously researches and strives to help patients regain a more beautiful and confident face.
Dr. Myungjun Oh, On Clinic | Last Reviewed 2026-05-23