Korean Facial Contouring

Facial Contouring in Korea by
Board-Certified Specialists

From cheekbone and jaw reduction to two-jaw surgery and contour revision, every facial bone procedure is planned with 3D CT precision and performed by dedicated craniofacial surgeons in Gangnam, Seoul.

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Global Leader in Safe and Natural Plastic Surgery since 2000
26+
Years Experience
Certified
Facial Contouring Surgeons
50+
Countries Served
Our Philosophy

Harmony in Every Angle

The bones of the cheek, jaw, and chin define the entire shape of your face. A beautiful result is never about removing as much bone as possible. It is about reshaping each structure in proportion to the others, and to your soft tissue, so the face stays balanced, natural, and unmistakably yours. This is the foundation of facial contouring at Banobagi.

Interview: Dr. Oh Chang-hyun

A doctor whose surgery time never decreases

Usually, the more you repeat a procedure, the more proficient you become and the faster it goes, but my surgery time simply doesn't seem to drop. I want today's surgery to be better than yesterday's, and this afternoon's to be better than this morning's. The more I operate, the more I want to raise the quality, and the more I notice things that still need to be done. Years ago, when I was building my skills, I took pride in short surgery times. Now I can't shorten them, and if I can do better, there is no reason not to.

Chief Director Oh Chang-hyun, March 2022
What's the Difference?

Differences in experience equal differences in skill

""What is needed above all else in facial contouring surgery is the 'eye of experience.'""

The difference between natural and artificial beauty also begins with this balance. When contouring surgery loses this point of balance, it results in an unnatural feeling or unnatural changes. Furthermore, the size and shape of the face must align with the individual's overall image and texture; while correcting flaws, it must never compromise strengths. Finding the ideal balance for each individual to enhance the level of perfection, this is the core of contouring surgery and the reason why the eye of experience is necessary.

Patients Worldwide

A Globally Noted Contour Expert

Patients from more than a dozen countries choose Banobagi for facial contouring, and that international trust comes from results that look natural across very different facial structures.

The jawline that suits a patient from Seoul is rarely the one that suits a patient from Madrid or Hanoi, so every cheekbone reduction, jaw reduction, V-line, and two-jaw surgery is planned around the individual’s own bone structure, proportions, and features rather than a single template.

This individualized approach, refined through years of high-volume facial bone surgery, is why facial contouring patients around the world continue to travel to Banobagi in Seoul, Korea.

Medical Tourism

Why Korea for Facial Contouring?

Korea pioneered modern V-line and facial bone surgery, and leads the world in volume, technique, and patient safety for facial contouring.

1st

Birthplace of V-Line Surgery

Korea pioneered modern facial bone contouring and V-line surgery and performs the highest volume of these procedures in the world. That volume gives Korean facial bone surgeons unmatched expertise across cheekbone, jaw, chin, and two-jaw cases through sheer repetition.

20+

Years of Craniofacial Training

Korean facial bone surgeons complete rigorous medical school, residency, and years of subspecialty craniofacial and maxillofacial training. This depth of specialization in osteotomy, fixation, and facial bone anatomy is rare in Western countries, where surgeons often perform a broader range of procedures.

50%

Lower Cost vs. Western Countries

Facial contouring in Korea costs 30–50% less than equivalent facial bone procedures in the United States, United Kingdom, or Australia, without compromising quality. Korea's competitive market and high surgical volume keep even complex jaw surgery accessible for international patients.

Asian

Facial Bone Anatomy Expertise

Korean techniques were developed specifically for Asian facial bone structure, including a wide zygoma, square mandible angle, and prominent jaw. This deep anatomical understanding lets surgeons reshape bone safely while protecting nerves and preventing the sagging that can follow aggressive reduction.

Did You Know?

Korean facial bone surgeons routinely collaborate with oral and maxillofacial specialists for jaw and two-jaw cases, and use MRI-safe titanium pins or bioresorbable fixation that needs no removal surgery. Combined with 3D CT planning and a medical tourism infrastructure of multilingual coordinators, international patient lounges, and airport pickup, the entire journey is designed to be safe and seamless.

Our Procedures

Facial Contouring Procedures

Each procedure is performed by surgeons who specialize in facial bone contouring and craniofacial reconstruction techniques.

Cheekbone Reduction

Sculpt and reposition protruding cheekbones for a smoother, balanced profile. Bone is rotated inward and pinned to prevent sagging.

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Jaw Reduction

Slim a square or wide jaw with a long curved osteotomy for a soft, natural V-line, with no harsh secondary angle.

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Chin Genioplasty

Reshape and reposition a short, long, or wide chin to refine your profile and complete a balanced V-line jawline.

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Two-Jaw Surgery

Reposition the upper and lower jaws to correct protrusion, recession, asymmetry, and bite, improving both function and facial balance.

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Protruding Mouth Correction

Set back a protruding mouth by repositioning the teeth and jaw bone, so the lips close naturally and the profile is balanced.

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Face Contour Revision

Correct unsatisfactory results from a previous contouring surgery: secondary angles, asymmetry, over-reduction, or sagging.

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Popular Combinations

Cheekbone reduction + jaw reduction is the most popular combination, slimming the entire face for a complete V-line. Jaw reduction + chin genioplasty refines the whole lower face and sharpens the profile. Combining procedures means a single anesthesia event and one recovery period, with a more harmonious overall result.

Not sure which facial contouring procedure is right for you?

Send us a photo and our surgeons will review your facial structure and recommend the best approach.

Free Consultation
At a Glance

Compare Facial Contouring Procedures

Quick comparison to help you understand the differences. Your surgeon will provide a personalized recommendation during consultation.

Procedure Best For Technique Often Combined With
Cheekbone Reduction Protruding or high cheekbones, broad flat face, lower-cheek shadows L-shaped osteotomy of the zygoma, rotated inward and fixed with titanium pins Jaw reduction, chin genioplasty
Jaw Reduction Square or wide jaw, masculine or angular lower face Long curved osteotomy of the mandible angle; optional cortical shaving, masseter & buccal fat reduction Cheekbone reduction, chin genioplasty
Chin Genioplasty Short, long, receding, or wide chin; weak profile Inverted-V or T-shaped osteotomy, or bone advancement, graft, or implant, fixed with titanium pins Jaw reduction
Two-Jaw Surgery Jaw protrusion or recession, asymmetry, open bite, gummy smile Maxilla & mandible osteotomy and repositioning, fixed with bioresorbable pins Jaw reduction, genioplasty
Protruding Mouth Correction Protruding mouth, lips that won't close, gummy smile Premolar extraction, anterior segmental osteotomy, setback and fixation Genioplasty, two-jaw surgery
Face Contour Revision Secondary angle, asymmetry, over/under-reduction, sagging after prior surgery Curved bone re-shaving, zygomatic repositioning, cheek lift, additional osteotomy Cheek lift, fat grafting
Am I a Candidate?

Who Is a Good Candidate for Facial Contouring?

Facial contouring suits a wide range of patients. Here are the most common reasons people choose each procedure.

Cheekbone Reduction

  • Your cheekbones look high or protruding, especially from a 45° angle
  • You have shadows or hollows in the lower cheeks from prominent bone
  • Your face looks broad or flat and you want softer contours
  • One cheekbone sits higher or wider than the other

Jaw Reduction

  • You have a square or wide jaw and want a slimmer lower face
  • Your face looks angular or overly strong from the front
  • Your jawline lacks a smooth, tapered V-line
  • You want to improve both your front and side profile

Chin Genioplasty

  • Your chin is short, receding, or set back, weakening your profile
  • Your chin is long, protruding, or pointed
  • Your chin looks wide or square relative to your jaw
  • You want a balanced V-line and a defined chin tip

Two-Jaw & Protruding Mouth

  • Your upper and/or lower jaw protrudes or is recessed
  • You have a noticeable bite problem or facial asymmetry
  • Your lips don't close comfortably, or you show excess gum when smiling
  • You want to correct function and facial balance together

Face Contour Revision

  • You are dissatisfied with a previous facial contouring surgery
  • You have a "secondary angle," asymmetry, or an unnatural jawline
  • Your cheekbones were over- or under-reduced
  • Your cheeks have begun to sag after a prior zygoma reduction

General Requirements

  • You are at least 18 years old (after facial bone growth is complete)
  • You are in good general health with no uncontrolled conditions
  • You have realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve
  • You are willing to follow pre- and post-operative care instructions
Before Your Surgery

How to Prepare for Facial Contouring in Korea

Good preparation makes for a smoother procedure and faster recovery. Here is what to do at each stage before your surgery date.

01

2–4 Weeks Before Arrival

  • Stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E, and herbal supplements, as these increase bleeding risk
  • Stop weight-loss medications such as Wegovy or Mounjaro at least 2 weeks before surgery
  • Stop blood thinners at least 1 week before surgery (consult your prescribing doctor first)
  • Inform the clinic of any regular medications you take, as some may need to be reviewed by the anesthesiologist
  • Avoid alcohol for at least 2 weeks before surgery
  • If you smoke, stop as early as possible, as smoking significantly impairs bone and gum healing
  • Arrange travel and accommodation close to the clinic in Gangnam, Seoul (a 3-week stay for two-jaw or protruding mouth correction)
  • Send pre-consultation photos (front, both side profiles, and a 45-degree angle), plus any prior CT scans or surgical records, to your coordinator via WhatsApp or email
02

1 Week Before Surgery

  • Complete all pre-operative blood tests and health screening as directed
  • Remove acrylic nails or nail polish, as oxygen saturation is monitored via fingernails during surgery
  • Prepare a button-down shirt or zip-up clothing to avoid pulling anything over your face post-surgery
  • Confirm your surgery date, 3D CT scan, and pre-operative consultation time with your coordinator
  • Arrange for someone to accompany you on surgery day
03

The Day Before Surgery

  • Fast for 6 to 8 hours before surgery (no food or water unless instructed otherwise by your surgeon)
  • Wash your face thoroughly and do not apply creams, makeup, or skincare products
  • Get a full night of rest to support your body's healing response
  • Prepare a wedge or travel pillow for sleeping upright, which helps reduce facial swelling
  • Stock soft and liquid foods (soup, porridge, smoothies) for the days after surgery, as chewing will be limited
04

What to Bring to the Clinic

  • Passport or government-issued photo ID
  • A list of any medications you currently take (prescription or over-the-counter)
  • A scarf or face mask for covering swelling or your compression band when going outside during recovery
  • A companion or your coordinator's contact details for the journey home
  • Payment and any pre-arranged deposit confirmation
Your Coordinator Will Guide You

Every Banobagi patient is assigned a dedicated multilingual coordinator who provides a personalised preparation checklist ahead of your surgery date. If you have any questions at any stage, whether before you arrive or during your stay, your coordinator is available to help.

Aftercare

Facial Contouring Recovery & Aftercare

What to expect after your procedure and how to ensure the best possible results.

Day 1–3

Immediate Recovery

A compression band supports the face. Swelling peaks within 48–72 hours and some numbness is normal. Sleep upright, use cold compresses, eat soft or liquid foods, and use the prescribed mouth rinse to keep intraoral incisions clean.

Day 5–7

Discharge & First Steps

Your hospital stay (same-day to 3 nights, depending on the procedure) ends. Light daily activities resume within 3–7 days. Swelling is still present but steadily improving, and gentle mouth movement is encouraged as advised.

Day 14

Stitch Removal

Intraoral stitches are removed and your surgeon checks healing. Major bruising has faded and the contour begins to emerge. You are cleared for your normal routine and, for overseas patients, travel home. Light exercise resumes around 3–4 weeks.

Month 3–6

Final Results

Residual swelling fully resolves and the bone consolidates firmly around the fixation. Your slimmer, refined contour settles into its permanent shape and numbness gradually fades. Because incisions are inside the mouth, there are no visible external scars.

Travel Tip

Plan to stay in Seoul for at least 10–14 days after cheekbone, jaw, or chin surgery, and at least 3 weeks for two-jaw surgery or protruding mouth correction. This covers your hospital stay, stitch removal around day 14, and follow-up checks before flying home. Many international patients combine their medical trip with light sightseeing in Seoul once swelling subsides and they are cleared for activity.

Why Banobagi

Why Patients Choose Banobagi for Facial Contouring

Board-Certified Specialists

Every surgeon holds certification from the Korean Board of Plastic Surgery with dedicated craniofacial and facial bone training and years of focused experience.

Real-Name Surgeon System

Your named surgeon performs the entire procedure from start to finish. No ghost surgeries, ever.

Full-Time Anesthesiologist Team

Dedicated anesthesiologists monitor every procedure under general anesthesia from start to finish for your safety.

Multilingual Coordinators

1:1 patient coordinators in 8+ languages guide you through every step of your journey.

3D CT Scanning & Diagnosis

Advanced 3D CT imaging maps your bone thickness, nerve position, and symmetry for precise, predictable facial bone surgery.

Bone, Muscle & Fat Together

We treat bone, muscle, and fat as one system, pairing osteotomy with muscle or buccal fat reduction and tissue support to prevent sagging and keep results natural.

Our Surgeons

Facial Contouring Specialists

Board-certified plastic surgeons with deep expertise in facial bone contouring and craniofacial reconstruction.

Dr. Changhyun Oh Board Certified

Dr. Changhyun Oh

Facial Contouring Specialist
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Changhyun Oh

Facial Contouring Specialist

  • Specialized plastic surgeon at Banobagi Plastic Surgery Clinic
  • M.D., PhD, Seoul National University College of Medicine
  • Residency at Seoul National University Hospital
  • Invited Professor, Inha University College of Medicine
  • Member of the Korean Association of Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons
  • Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons & the Korean Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
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Meet all our surgeons
Real Results

Before & After

Real patient results from Banobagi's facial contouring team. Drag the slider to compare.

Cheekbone reduction after Cheekbone reduction before
Cheekbone reduction before
Cheekbone reduction after
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Cheekbone reduction after Cheekbone reduction before
Cheekbone reduction before
Cheekbone reduction after
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Chin genioplasty after Chin genioplasty before
Chin genioplasty before
Chin genioplasty after
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Chin genioplasty after Chin genioplasty before
Chin genioplasty before
Chin genioplasty after
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Two-jaw surgery after Two-jaw surgery before
Two-jaw surgery before
Two-jaw surgery after
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Two-jaw surgery after Two-jaw surgery before
Two-jaw surgery before
Two-jaw surgery after
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Protruding mouth correction after Protruding mouth correction before
Protruding mouth correction before
Protruding mouth correction after
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Protruding mouth correction after Protruding mouth correction before
Protruding mouth correction before
Protruding mouth correction after
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Face contour revision after Face contour revision before
Face contour revision before
Face contour revision after
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Face contour revision after Face contour revision before
Face contour revision before
Face contour revision after
Before After
View all before & after photos
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Recovery depends on the procedure. After cheekbone reduction, jaw reduction, or chin genioplasty, most patients resume light daily activities within 3–5 days, with stitches removed around day 14. Two-jaw surgery and protruding mouth correction are more extensive, requiring about 7 days before light activity and a minimum 3-week stay in Korea. Major swelling subsides within 3–4 weeks, with the final, fully refined contour settling over 3–6 months.
Yes. Combining facial bone procedures in a single session is common and often recommended for a balanced result. Popular combinations include cheekbone reduction with jaw reduction for an all-over V-line, or jaw reduction with chin genioplasty to refine the lower face. Combining procedures means one anesthesia event and one recovery period rather than several.
Yes. Banobagi uses titanium alignment pins for cheekbone and chin surgery, which are MRI-safe and do not require a second surgery to remove. For two-jaw surgery, bioresorbable Osteotrans pins are used; they provide strong fixation and gradually absorb into the bone, eliminating the need for removal.
For cheekbone reduction, jaw reduction, or chin genioplasty, plan a stay of at least 10–14 days, enough time for consultation, surgery, initial recovery, and stitch removal around day 14. Two-jaw surgery and protruding mouth correction require a minimum 3-week stay due to their complexity and the need for 3–4 follow-up visits.
Facial bone surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so you feel nothing during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is managed with prescribed medication. Most patients describe swelling, tightness, and numbness in the first week rather than sharp pain. Numbness around the operated area is normal and gradually resolves over the following weeks to months.
Jaw reduction is a purely cosmetic procedure that slims a square or wide jaw by reshaping the mandible bone. Two-jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) repositions both the upper and lower jaws to correct functional issues such as bite alignment, jaw protrusion or recession, facial asymmetry, and a gummy smile. Two-jaw surgery is more extensive and is chosen when there is a structural or functional concern, not just aesthetics.
Banobagi's techniques are designed to prevent these issues. For cheekbone reduction, separated bones are rotated inward and re-secured with titanium pins to support the soft tissue and prevent sagging. For jaw reduction, a long curved osteotomy avoids creating a "secondary angle" for a natural jawline. Where soft-tissue laxity is a concern, a cheek lift can be combined to keep the result natural.
Cheekbone reduction, jaw reduction, chin genioplasty, two-jaw surgery, and protruding mouth correction are performed primarily through incisions inside the mouth, leaving no visible external scarring. Cheekbone reduction may use a tiny hidden incision near the sideburn for the upper bone, which fades to become virtually undetectable.
Facial bone contouring is recommended once facial bone growth is complete, typically from around age 18. It is most commonly performed on patients in their 20s and 30s. There is no strict upper age limit provided overall health is good and bone quality is adequate; your surgeon will assess suitability with a 3D CT scan during consultation.
Temporary numbness and limited mouth opening are normal in the first weeks as the bone heals, and a soft diet is recommended early on. Permanent nerve injury is rare. Banobagi uses 3D CT planning to map the position of major nerves before surgery, and the surgical approach is designed to protect them, so chewing function returns to normal as healing completes.
Face contour revision can correct most issues from a prior surgery, including secondary jaw angles, an unnatural or asymmetric jawline, under- or over-reduced cheekbones, and sagging cheeks after zygoma reduction. Revision is more complex than primary surgery and requires expertise in scar tissue, bone, and soft-tissue management. Banobagi's revision specialists routinely correct results from both Korean and overseas clinics.
Get Started

Begin Your Facial Contouring Journey

Send us a message with your photos and goals. Our surgeons will review your case and recommend the best procedure, all before you arrive in Seoul.

01
Send Your Photos

Message us on WhatsApp or Instagram with front-facing photos and your goals.

02
Surgeon Review

Our specialist reviews your case and recommends the ideal procedure and approach.

03
Book & Travel

Your coordinator arranges everything: surgery date, accommodation guidance, and aftercare plan.

Free Consultation

Reach out through your preferred channel. We typically respond within 2 hours.

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