Hello, I am Dr. Myungjun Oh from On Clinic. Today, I would like to introduce a case of a patient who achieved improved facial asymmetry and a more youthful appearance through cheekbone and mid-face reduction surgery. This patient had long been concerned about facial asymmetry and prominent cheekbones. In particular, the asymmetry around the eyes was noticeable, affecting the perceived size of their eyes.
The Problem of Asymmetrical Cheekbones and Mid-Face
Examining the patient's face directly in the consultation room, I deeply empathized with their concerns. The patient's left and right cheekbones protruded to noticeably different degrees, which disrupted the overall balance of their face. Specifically, the cheekbones protruded wider than the orbital bones around the eyes, creating a visual effect where the eyes appeared relatively smaller. I explained to the patient, "By reducing the mid-face and moving the cheekbones inward, the asymmetry will align with your eyes. This will also give the effect of larger eyes." I emphasized that an approach considering the overall harmony of the face, beyond simply reducing the cheekbones, was crucial. By reducing the cheekbones to align with the eye bones, we can improve asymmetry and expect the added benefit of the eyes appearing larger.
Precise Surgical Planning Through CT Analysis
The changes can be clearly confirmed through pre- and post-operative CT images. In the pre-operative CT, the patient's cheekbones protruded quite widely relative to the eyes, and left-right asymmetry was also distinct. The post-operative CT images show that the cheekbones were effectively reduced and moved inward, aligning with the eye line. These changes reduce the width of the face and create a softer, more balanced overall contour.
Benefits of the Surgery:
- Improved left-right facial asymmetry
- Reduced cheekbone protrusion and narrowed facial width
- Visual effect of larger eyes
- Harmonious change in overall facial contour
- Creation of a more youthful image
Misinformation vs. Correct Surgical Method
Many people consider contouring surgery that involves cutting the orbital bones to make their eyes appear larger. However, this method can actually make the eyes look smaller or lead to functional problems. I clearly explained this to the patient.
"There are many cases where people cut the orbital bones in contouring surgery to make their eyes bigger. But that method actually makes the eyes smaller. You shouldn't do that! The method I used for this surgery is what makes the eyes appear larger."
The correct cheekbone reduction surgery involves adjusting the position and size of the cheekbones to reduce the space around the eyes, ultimately making the eyes appear larger and more open. After the surgery, the patient looked in the mirror and expressed great satisfaction, saying, "I look so much younger! And my asymmetry has improved." The patient also mentioned that their face seemed shorter, which is a visual effect that occurs when the facial width is reduced. At On Clinic, we strive to achieve the most ideal results by precisely analyzing each patient's unique facial structure. Facial contouring surgery is not a simple cosmetic procedure but a highly complex surgery involving the facial bone structure, so it is crucial to consult thoroughly with an experienced specialist and make a careful decision. Consult via chat now
Dr. Myungjun Oh, On Clinic | Last reviewed: 2026-05-23