While well-developed cheekbones with good forward projection are highly valued by those of European descent, some people of Asian descent born with particularly full faces prefer a slimmer appearance from both front and profile views.
Prominent cheekbones make the uppermost mid-face wider, while overly ample cheek fat can thicken the lower portion of the mid-face.
Two surgical approaches can be employed to decrease cheek size: bone reduction and buccal fat removal.
Surgery on the bone has been made safer and more predictable due to improvements in technology. Three-dimensional CT scanners emitting decreased amounts of radiation can be used to show not only the bone but also the position of muscles, fat, and even tiny nerves for a more complete analysis during planning.
Use of endoscopes allows for much smaller incisions, less scarring and swelling, and a faster recovery.
Cutting or removing bone can now be done using the FDA-approved aqua-light laser that offers increased safety and precision compared to an electric saw.
