Facial Contouring Surgery in Korea: V-Line, Jaw & Cheekbone - Prices 2025
Korea is the world capital of facial contouring surgery. The famous Korean "V-line" has become a global beauty standard, and Korean surgeons have unparalleled expertise in these complex procedures. Here's your comprehensive guide.
Understanding Facial Contouring
What is Facial Contouring?
Facial contouring surgery reshapes the facial bones to create:
- Slimmer, more defined face shape
- Balanced facial proportions
- The coveted Korean "V-line"
- Improved facial harmony
Types of Facial Contouring
| Procedure | Target | Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Square jaw reduction | Mandible angle | Slim lower face |
| V-line surgery | Chin + jaw | V-shaped face |
| Cheekbone reduction | Zygoma | Narrower midface |
| Genioplasty | Chin bone | Reshape chin |
| Forehead contouring | Frontal bone | Rounder forehead |
Why Korea for Facial Contouring?
Korea dominates facial contouring because:
- Highest volume: More procedures than anywhere else
- Technical expertise: Surgeons with thousands of cases
- Specialized clinics: Dedicated facial bone centers
- Advanced techniques: Minimally invasive approaches
- Aesthetic sense: Understanding of facial harmony
- Competitive pricing: World-class results, reasonable costs
Facial Contouring Procedures
1. Square Jaw Reduction (사각턱 축소)
Goal: Reduce wide, square jawline
Techniques:
- Mandible angle resection: Removes jaw angle
- Outer cortex ostectomy: Shaves outer bone layer
- Masseter muscle reduction: Often combined
Approach: Intraoral (inside mouth) - no visible scars
Price: $4,620-$7,700 (₩6,000,000-₩10,000,000)
Recovery: 2-4 weeks major swelling
2. V-Line Surgery (브이라인)
Goal: Create V-shaped lower face
Includes:
- Square jaw reduction
- Chin reshaping (T-osteotomy)
- Smooth jawline creation
Price: $5,390-$9,240 (₩7,000,000-₩12,000,000)
Recovery: 2-4 weeks major swelling
3. Cheekbone Reduction (광대 축소)
Goal: Reduce prominent cheekbones
Techniques:
- L-osteotomy: Cuts and repositions zygoma
- Infracture technique: Pushes bone inward
- Combined approach: Most common
Price: $4,620-$7,700 (₩6,000,000-₩10,000,000)
Recovery: 2-4 weeks major swelling
4. Genioplasty (Chin Surgery)
Goal: Reshape chin (length, projection, width)
Types:
- Advancement: Moves chin forward
- Reduction: Makes chin smaller
- T-osteotomy: Narrows and reshapes
Price: $3,080-$5,390 (₩4,000,000-₩7,000,000)
Recovery: 1-2 weeks major swelling
5. Forehead Contouring
Goal: Round, feminine forehead
Techniques:
- Bone shaving
- Fat grafting
- Filler (non-surgical option)
Price: $3,850-$6,930 (₩5,000,000-₩9,000,000)
Recovery: 1-2 weeks
Treatment Prices Summary (Korea 2025)
| Procedure | Price Range (USD) | Price Range (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| Square jaw reduction | $4,620-$7,700 | ₩6,000,000-₩10,000,000 |
| V-line surgery | $5,390-$9,240 | ₩7,000,000-₩12,000,000 |
| Cheekbone reduction | $4,620-$7,700 | ₩6,000,000-₩10,000,000 |
| Genioplasty | $3,080-$5,390 | ₩4,000,000-₩7,000,000 |
| Full facial contouring | $9,240-$15,400 | ₩12,000,000-₩20,000,000 |
Package Deals
Many clinics offer combination packages:
| Package | Procedures | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| V-line Package | Jaw + chin | $5,390-$9,240 |
| Full Lower Face | V-line + cheekbone | $8,470-$13,860 |
| Complete Contouring | All facial bones | $11,550-$19,250 |
The Surgical Experience
Before Surgery
Consultation:
- 3D CT scan
- Facial analysis
- Surgical planning
- Computer simulation
Pre-operative:
- Blood tests
- Medical evaluation
- Stop certain medications
- Arrange recovery accommodation
During Surgery
Anesthesia: General anesthesia
Duration:
| Procedure | Duration |
|---|---|
| Jaw reduction | 1-2 hours |
| V-line | 2-3 hours |
| Cheekbone | 1.5-2.5 hours |
| Combined | 3-5 hours |
Approach: Mostly intraoral (no visible scars)
Recovery Timeline
| Time | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1-3 | Hospital stay, maximum swelling |
| Week 1 | Significant swelling, liquid diet |
| Week 2 | Swelling decreasing, soft food |
| Week 3-4 | Return to light activities |
| Month 2-3 | Most swelling resolved |
| Month 6 | Final results visible |
Post-Operative Care
- Compression garment: 2-4 weeks
- Diet: Liquid → soft → normal (gradual)
- Oral hygiene: Special care (intraoral incisions)
- Activity: Limited for 4-6 weeks
- Follow-up: Multiple appointments
Results and Expectations
Realistic Expectations
What contouring CAN achieve:
- Slimmer facial profile
- Improved proportions
- More defined jawline
- Balanced facial harmony
What contouring CANNOT do:
- Change ethnicity
- Guarantee specific look
- Fix all facial concerns
- Instant final results
Before & After Changes
| Area | Typical Change |
|---|---|
| Jaw width | 20-40% reduction |
| Face length | Proportional adjustment |
| Cheekbone width | 10-20% reduction |
| Chin shape | Customized reshaping |
Who is a Good Candidate?
Ideal Candidates
- Wide, square jaw
- Prominent cheekbones
- Long or wide chin
- Facial asymmetry
- Realistic expectations
- Good overall health
Not Recommended For
- Active dental issues
- Certain medical conditions
- Unrealistic expectations
- Under 18 (bone still developing)
Risks and Considerations
Potential Risks
| Risk | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Swelling (prolonged) | Common |
| Numbness (temporary) | Common |
| Asymmetry | Uncommon |
| Nerve damage | Rare |
| Infection | Rare |
Long-term Considerations
- Results are permanent
- Aging still occurs
- Some revision cases
- Bone stability important
Choosing a Clinic in Seoul
What to Look For
- Board-certified surgeon: Maxillofacial or plastic surgery
- Specialization: Facial contouring focus
- Volume: High case numbers
- 3D imaging: Proper planning technology
- Before/after portfolio: Similar cases
- Hospital accreditation: JCI or Korean certification
Questions to Ask
- How many facial contouring cases have you performed?
- What technique do you recommend for me?
- Can I see before/after photos of similar cases?
- What are the risks specific to my case?
- What is your revision rate?
Red Flags
- Extremely low prices
- Promises of unrealistic results
- No proper imaging/planning
- Pressure to decide immediately
- Unable to show credentials
International Patient Tips
Planning Your Trip
- Stay duration: Minimum 2-3 weeks
- Accommodation: Near clinic with recovery facilities
- Companion: Strongly recommended
- Return flight: Book flexible
Recovery in Korea
- Many clinics offer recovery services
- Korean food can be difficult (soft diet needed)
- Language support important
- Plan for limited mobility
FAQ
Q: How long until I see final results? A: 3-6 months for swelling to fully resolve. Final results at 6-12 months.
Q: Will there be visible scars? A: No, incisions are inside the mouth for most procedures.
Q: Is it very painful? A: Pain is manageable with medication. Discomfort is mainly from swelling.
Q: Can I combine with other surgeries? A: Yes, often combined with rhinoplasty or eye surgery. Discuss with surgeon.
Q: How long do I need to stay in Korea? A: Minimum 2 weeks, 3-4 weeks recommended.
Q: Will my face look natural? A: Skilled surgeons aim for natural, harmonious results. Communication is key.
Q: What if I don't like the results? A: Revision is possible but should be avoided through proper planning.
Q: Is there an age limit? A: Generally 18+ after facial bones are fully developed.
Conclusion
Facial contouring surgery in Korea offers world-leading expertise for those seeking to reshape their facial structure. With unmatched experience, advanced techniques, and competitive pricing, Korean clinics can help achieve the balanced, harmonious facial proportions you desire.
Considering facial contouring? Research thoroughly, choose an experienced surgeon, and ensure your expectations are realistic for the best possible outcome.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about facial contouring surgery. It is not intended as medical advice. Facial bone surgery carries significant risks and requires careful consideration. Always consult with qualified surgeons and obtain multiple opinions before proceeding.
Last Updated: January 2025 Prices as of January 2025. Actual costs may vary by clinic and case complexity.