What Is a Prominent Cheekbone?

A prominent cheekbone, also known as malar prominence or zygoma protrusion, is when the cheekbone area extends outward more than the surrounding facial structures. This creates a wide, angular, or even “boxy” appearance to the face, often resulting in an unbalanced or overly sharp facial profile.
Individuals with pronounced cheekbones may notice their face appears wider from the front view and more projected from the side.

In many cases, no amount of skincare or contouring can fully correct this structural issue—making surgical intervention the go-to solution for a softer, more harmonious look.

What Is Cheekbone Reduction Surgery?

Cheekbone reduction surgery, or zygomatic reduction, is a bone contouring procedure that repositions the zygoma (cheekbone) and the zygomatic arch inward to create a slimmer facial width and a smoother side profile.

At Seoul Cheil Plastic Surgery, the technique involves:

• Intraoral (inside the mouth) incision for minimal visible scarring
• Osteotomy of the zygoma to cut and reposition the cheekbone
• Inward and backward repositioning of the zygomatic body and arch
• Stabilization with microplates and screws to ensure long-term results
• Surgery time: approximately 1.5–2 hours under general anesthesia
• Minimal visible scars as all incisions are hidden inside the mouth and hairline
• Often combined with jawline contouring for a balanced V-line effect

Why Combine With Other Procedures?

Patients with prominent cheekbones may also have other facial concerns, such as:

• A square jawline
• A wide lower face
• A flat or undefined chin

In such cases, cheekbone reduction is often performed alongside:

• Mandible angle reduction for a narrower lower face
• Chin surgery (genioplasty) for improved proportions
• Fat grafting to restore natural volume after bone contouring

This comprehensive approach ensures a balanced, natural-looking transformation.

Key Characteristics of Prominent Cheekbones

• Face appears wide and angular
• Cheekbones project outward when viewed from the side
• Hollow areas under the cheekbones (midface depression)
• Can create a “sunken” or tired look
• Makeup contouring has limited effect

Can I Just Get Fillers or Botox?

While fillers and Botox can provide temporary volume or softening, they cannot reshape the bone structure itself.
For true bony prominence, cheekbone reduction surgery is the only solution to achieve long-lasting, structural changes.

Cheekbone Reduction at Seoul Cheil Plastic Surgery

Seoul Cheil Plastic Surgery is a leading clinic specializing in facial bone contouring with over 20 years of experience.

Why patients choose Seoul Cheil:

• Board-certified surgeons specializing in bone surgery
• Customized facial analysis for each patient
• Minimal scarring techniques with internal incisions
• Post-surgical care focused on fast recovery
• Multilingual staff for international patients



If you’ve been struggling with wide, angular cheekbones and want a softer, more refined facial shape, cheekbone reduction surgery at Seoul Cheil Plastic Surgery could be the answer.

Book a consultation today and take the first step toward a more balanced and harmonious appearance!