Cheekbone Reduction Cost and Procedure Guide

While prominent cheekbones may be a sought-after feature for some, protruding cheekbones can make your face seem wider and create an unwanted harshness that overshadows other features. Cheekbone reduction surgery aims to bring your features into harmony, resulting in a delicate facial silhouette.¹

If you feel your cheekbones are too wide, angular or pronounced, understanding this procedure can help you decide if it's right for you. This guide covers what cheekbone reduction is, alternative procedures, the costs involved and how the surgery works from consultation through recovery.

What Is Cheekbone Reduction Surgery?

Cheekbone reduction, technically known as zygomatic reduction or reduction malarplasty, helps reshape and reduce the prominence of the cheekbones.² You may be interested in this procedure to achieve a slimmer, more balanced facial appearance or to address concerns related to asymmetry and disproportion of the middle face.¹

The widest part of your face is typically the area around your cheekbones, specifically the zygomatic arch. This curved (convex) bony structure extends from your nose toward your ear. Surgery involves shaving down or fracturing the cheekbone to reposition it inward. Incisions are typically made inside the mouth to access the cheekbones, where your surgeon shaves or cuts a section of the bone before shifting and securing it in place with small screws or plates.¹

Cheekbone surgery, though complex and invasive, is a highly effective solution for a wide profile caused by the underlying bone structure.¹ But remember, not all facial fullness is caused by the bone itself. For example, a broader face may be due to excess fat or overdeveloped chewing muscles.³

How Much Does Cheekbone Reduction Cost?

The average cost of cheekbone reduction surgery is $11,000.⁴ While cheekbone reduction surgery stands out as the only effective treatment for reducing pronounced bony structures, your surgeon will work with you to determine which procedure is best.¹

There can be several cost considerations when it comes to cheekbone reduction surgery:⁵

• Anesthesia type. General anesthesia costs more than local anesthesia.
• Extent of surgery. More complex procedures or combined surgeries increase costs.
• Geographic location. Urban areas and regions with higher living costs tend to have higher prices.
• Preoperative tests and postoperative care. Imaging, lab work and follow-up visits add to the total.
• Surgeon's experience and reputation. Highly experienced surgeons may charge more.
• Surgical facility fees. Hospital or accredited surgical center charges vary.

Is Cheekbone Reduction Surgery Covered by Insurance?

Your health insurance company determines whether it covers cheekbone reduction based on medical necessity. Since cosmetic surgery that reshapes normal body structures to improve appearance and self-esteem is elective and not generally medically necessary, health insurance usually excludes coverage.⁶

How Cheekbone Reduction Surgery Works

Understanding the process may help you feel more confident and prepared for your procedure. Here is what you may typically expect from a cheekbone reduction surgery.

Preparation

Successful outcomes depend on examining the patient's existing bone structure beforehand to determine how much of the facial width comes from the cheekbones.¹ Before surgery, you'll meet with your surgeon to:⁷

• Review your medical history and discuss your goals
• Undergo a physical exam and facial imaging (such as X-rays or CT scans)
• Receive instructions to stop smoking and avoid certain medications that increase bleeding
• Get preoperative guidelines, such as fasting before surgery and arranging for someone to drive you home

Procedure

The procedure involves carefully cutting, shaving, or filing the cheekbone (zygoma) and its arch and moving the bones inward to narrow the face.¹

Each case is different, but your surgeon may make precise, straight or L-shaped bone cuts, called osteotomies, usually from incisions made inside the mouth and near the ear next to your hairline. This reduces the width and side-projection of the cheekbones, helping you achieve a more narrowed, contoured facial profile.

In some cases, a less invasive method of simply shaving the bone might be used for subtle changes, or a focused cut on the posterior arch can address the width closer to the ear.¹

Recovery

Recovery time varies depending on the type of procedure performed. However, cheekbone osteotomy — which requires cutting and repositioning — is the most invasive and involved surgery, so recovery takes longer. Here are some common recovery milestones:⁷

• Return to daily activities and work. Patients may usually go back to work within one to two weeks.
• Strenuous exercise. Your surgeon may recommend you avoid strenuous exercise for at least six weeks following the procedure.

Alternatives to Cheekbone Reduction Surgery

Below are some popular alternatives to cheekbone reduction surgery you may also consider.

Less invasive facial slimming techniques

If you are looking for permanent but minimally invasive alternatives to cheekbone reduction surgery, targeted facial fat removal may be the answer.⁸ The following minor surgical procedures may be an option if the fullness in your cheeks is from pockets of fat:

Achieve Facial Balance and Harmony

Cheekbone reduction offers a way to achieve a softer, more balanced facial appearance if prominent cheekbones are a concern for you. The procedure is highly individualized, with options tailored to your unique features and goals. With the right surgeon and a clear understanding of the process, you can move forward with confidence and realistic expectations.

Financing a Cheekbone Reduction With the CareCredit Credit Card

Ready to revitalize your appearance and boost your confidence? The CareCredit credit card makes it easy to pay for cheekbone reduction and related expenses not covered by health insurance.* Use our Acceptance Locator to find a doctor or cosmetic surgeon near you that accepts CareCredit so you can stop dreaming and start living your best life. Continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your CareCredit account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

In addition to cosmetic procedures, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, pet care, vision, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?

Author Bio

Pamela Cagle, R.N., has extensive experience in a range of clinical settings, including ER, surgical and cardiovascular. For the past decade, she has leveraged her nursing experience in writing for health and technology publications such as AARP, VKTR, National Council on Aging and others. She is passionate about blending her medical and storytelling expertise to bring authenticity to health and wellness topics.