Cheekbone Reduction — How Do 3D and 3S Surgery Differ?

The cheekbones occupy the widest area of the face, making them an important part of facial contouring surgery aimed at narrowing facial width. Because the cheekbone has a hollow structure, pushing it inward can be expected to create a slimmer-looking face; however, results vary by individual.

The cheekbone consists of a body and an arch (zygomatic arch). The section right beside the teeth is the body, while the part that thins outward into a rounded arch shape is the side cheekbone (zygomatic arch). Kim Jongseo Plastic Surgery (Apgujeong, Seoul) applies 3D cheekbone surgery, 3S (minimal incision) cheekbone surgery, and the molding technique depending on the condition of the cheekbone, and was selected as an Outstanding Facial Contouring Hospital by the Ministry of Health and Welfare (2009). Detailed history can be found on the About the Director page.

What Is 3D Cheekbone Surgery?

3D cheekbone surgery is performed under general anesthesia and treats both the body and the side cheekbone, using an intraoral incision together with a preauricular (in front of the ear) incision. The intraoral incision reduces the volume of the cheekbone, while the preauricular incision folds the side cheekbone inward. This method is generally recommended when both the body and the arch are large.

Techniques such as hydrodissection and hemostatic spray are used with the goal of reducing bruising and pain, and going outside after about 5 days may be expected. However, recovery speed varies by individual.

How Is 3S Minimal-Incision Cheekbone Surgery Different?

3S cheekbone surgery is performed under local anesthesia with only a preauricular incision, focusing mainly on the side cheekbone. Through the preauricular incision, the body is shaved down and the side cheekbone is folded inward — a relatively simple procedure that allows drinking liquids immediately after surgery. This method is generally recommended for those who are reluctant about general anesthesia or do not want an intraoral incision, though the amount of reduction achievable is limited.

In summary, 3D cheekbone surgery is generally recommended when both the body and the arch are large, while 3S cheekbone surgery is generally recommended when only the side cheekbone is large and the face appears wide from the front. Which method is right for you is determined through a consultation.

How Is Cheek Sagging Prevented After Cheekbone Reduction?

If the chewing muscle pulls down on a cheekbone that has been separated, cheek sagging can worsen. To prevent this, a three-step method is used — creating bone support ridges at the body and in front of the ear and fixing them with small wires — with the goal of preventing cheek sagging. In addition, the zygomatic arch is folded inward with the goal of creating a natural line both from the front and at a 45-degree angle.

When Is the Molding Technique Suitable?

The molding technique separates the side cheekbone into several pieces and pushes them inward to reshape the area. It does not require general anesthesia and is generally recommended when the body is small but the side cheekbone is prominent. It can be understood as a similar concept to 3S minimal-incision cheekbone surgery. The scalp incision method (coronal incision), on the other hand, is not a preferred method at Kim Jongseo Plastic Surgery, since lifting can now be achieved through a preauricular incision.

Can Cheekbone Surgery Be Combined with a Facelift?

For older patients or those with insufficient skin elasticity, extending the preauricular incision further upward allows a lift to be performed at the same time. For lifting procedures, endoscopic forehead lift or preauricular temple lift are recommended, and more details can be found in the Facelift Guide.

What Preparation Is Needed Before Surgery?

Before cheekbone surgery, a simple radiograph and a health checkup are required. It is recommended to preview the approximate result through a virtual surgery simulation before deciding on surgery, as planning surgery with a clear goal tends to lead to higher satisfaction afterward. Depending on facial balance, combining the procedure with jaw reduction surgery, for example, can also be reviewed during consultation.

Consultation Information

Kim Jongseo Plastic Surgery (Apgujeong, Seoul) · 2F Apgujeong Building, 842 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · 02-3416-0070 (after hours 070-4027-0070) · Book a Consultation

This article is provided for informational purposes only. The effects and recovery period of any surgery or procedure may vary by individual. All medical procedures carry the possibility of side effects, so please consult thoroughly with a specialist beforehand.

Detailed Procedure Materials

Below is procedure information from the previous website (surgery.co.kr). Before-and-after results may vary by individual, and all medical procedures carry the possibility of side effects.