The Hidden Risks of Cheekbone Reduction Surgery
Cheekbone reduction surgery, while effective at slimming the face, may contribute to premature facial aging due to loss of crucial mid-face bone support. The procedure involves cutting and repositioning the zygomatic arch, fundamentally altering facial structure.
This increasingly popular facial contouring procedure typically takes between 90 minutes to 3 hours under general anesthesia or IV sedation. Patients generally recover within 2 to 7 days, though full healing takes longer.
Surgical Techniques and Process
During the operation, surgeons make strategic incisions both inside the mouth and behind the ear to access the cheekbone. The zygomatic arch is then cut in an L-shaped or two-site osteotomy pattern.
After cutting, the cheekbone is carefully rotated inward to achieve a narrower facial appearance. Titanium plates and screws are used to secure the repositioned bone in its new location.
This malarplasty technique effectively reduces facial width while aiming to maintain structural integrity. Yet the procedure fundamentally alters the mid-face bone structure that naturally supports facial tissues.
Aging Considerations
Medical experts caution that “The reduction of bone volume in the mid-face region may contribute to an older appearance over time.” This occurs because cheekbones provide essential support for soft tissues that prevent sagging.
Without adequate bone structure, gravity’s effects accelerate, potentially leading to premature facial aging. This represents a significant long-term consideration for patients seeking the procedure primarily for aesthetic reasons.
Soft Tissue Effects
The intra-oral incisions necessary for cheekbone reduction can sometimes result in facial sagging after surgery. “To counteract this, some surgeons recommend combining cheekbone reduction with a facelift to lift and support facial soft tissues,” according to medical professionals.
This combination approach helps maintain youthful contours while achieving the desired facial slimming effect. The facelift component specifically addresses potential soft tissue laxity resulting from bone reduction.
Surgical Details
The procedure typically involves removing part of the cheekbone and reattaching it using titanium hardware. These specialized screws and plates ensure proper healing and stability of the newly positioned bone.
Scarring remains minimal since incisions are strategically placed inside the mouth or behind the ears. But patients should expect significant swelling during the initial recovery period.
While cheekbone reduction effectively creates a slimmer, more contoured face, patients must carefully weigh immediate aesthetic benefits against potential long-term structural consequences. The delicate balance between facial slimming and maintaining youthful support continues to challenge both surgeons and those considering this transformative procedure.