Osteotomy

An osteotomy is a precise surgical technique used to reshape, reposition, or realign bone structures to improve facial harmony, function, and long-term aesthetic balance. In facial plastic surgery, osteotomies are commonly performed during procedures such as rhinoplasty, facial contouring, and reconstructive surgery to correct asymmetry, structural deviations, or traumatic deformities. At CK Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, Dr. Charles Kim performs advanced osteotomy techniques using meticulous preoperative analysis and customized planning to ensure accurate bone movement while preserving facial proportions. This approach allows for predictable healing, enhanced symmetry, and results that look natural rather than surgically altered.

Overview

An osteotomy is a controlled surgical bone cut performed to reposition skeletal structures for improved alignment, balance, and function. In aesthetic and reconstructive facial surgery, osteotomies play a critical role in procedures such as rhinoplasty, jawline contouring, facial asymmetry correction, and post-traumatic reconstruction. Unlike surface-level cosmetic adjustments, osteotomy-based surgery addresses the underlying skeletal framework, allowing for durable, structurally sound results.

At CK Plastic Surgery, Dr. Charles Kim approaches osteotomy with a philosophy rooted in artful precision and anatomical respect. Each procedure begins with a comprehensive facial evaluation, including bone structure analysis, soft tissue dynamics, and occlusal balance when applicable. Dr. Kim carefully plans the location, angle, and depth of each osteotomy to ensure accuracy and safety.

In facial procedures such as nasal osteotomy during rhinoplasty, controlled fractures of the nasal bones allow for narrowing of the nasal bridge, correction of deviation, and restoration of symmetry following dorsal hump reduction. In facial contouring or reconstructive cases, osteotomies enable the repositioning of bone segments to improve jawline definition, midface balance, or facial proportion discrepancies.

Dr. Kim utilizes advanced osteotomy techniques, including internal continuous osteotomies and precision-guided instrumentation, to minimize trauma to surrounding tissues. This reduces postoperative swelling, limits bruising, and supports smoother recovery timelines. The surgical approach is always individualized, accounting for bone density, age-related changes, healing capacity, and long-term facial stability.

By focusing on both functional integrity and aesthetic refinement, osteotomy procedures at CK Plastic Surgery deliver results that enhance facial harmony while maintaining natural movement and expression. This expertise-driven approach reflects Dr. Kim’s extensive surgical experience and commitment to patient safety, predictability, and lasting outcomes.

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Overview

Benefits & Candidates

Improves facial symmetry by correcting underlying bone misalignment

Enables precise reshaping of nasal or facial bone structures

Produces long-lasting structural and aesthetic improvements

Enhances overall facial balance and proportional harmony

Supports natural-looking results without overcorrection

Allows correction of trauma-related or congenital deformities

Improves functional issues such as nasal airflow or occlusion

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1. Patients with facial asymmetry caused by skeletal irregularities

2. Individuals undergoing rhinoplasty requiring nasal bone repositioning

3. Patients with deviated nasal bones or post-traumatic facial deformities

4. Individuals seeking structural correction rather than surface-level changes

5. Patients experiencing functional concerns related to bone alignment

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The Process

Comprehensive Consultation
Detailed facial analysis, bone structure evaluation, and surgical planning.

Preoperative Preparation
Precise markings and confirmation of osteotomy sites based on individualized anatomy.

Anesthesia Administration
Performed under general or local anesthesia with sedation for patient comfort and safety.

Precision Osteotomy Execution
Controlled surgical bone cuts using advanced instruments to reposition or reshape bone structures.

Bone Repositioning & Stabilization
Realignment of bone segments to achieve functional and aesthetic goals.

Layered Closure & Recovery Transition
Careful closure of soft tissues and transfer to recovery with postoperative monitoring.

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Recovery & Risks

As with any surgical procedure involving bone manipulation, osteotomy surgery carries certain risks and requires a structured recovery process. Common temporary effects include swelling, bruising, tenderness, and localized discomfort around the surgical site. These effects typically peak within the first 7–10 days and gradually improve over several weeks.

More specific risks associated with osteotomy procedures may include infection, delayed bone healing, asymmetry, nerve irritation, or prolonged swelling. At CK Plastic Surgery, these risks are minimized through meticulous surgical planning, sterile technique, and adherence to evidence-based patient safety protocols.

Recovery timelines vary depending on the extent of the osteotomy and whether it is performed as part of a larger procedure such as rhinoplasty or facial reconstruction. Most patients can expect to return to light daily activities within 1–2 weeks, while full bone healing continues over several months. Dr. Kim provides detailed post-operative instructions, including swelling management, activity restrictions, and follow-up schedules to ensure optimal outcomes.

Regular post-surgical evaluations allow for close monitoring of bone stability and healing progress. With proper aftercare and compliance, osteotomy procedures performed by an experienced surgeon offer predictable, safe, and durable results.

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Real Results

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does osteotomy recovery typically take?

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Osteotomy recovery usually takes two to four weeks for initial healing. Patients exploring osteotomy recovery time often ask about swelling, eating restrictions, and facial mobility. At CK Plastic Surgery, Dr. Charles Kim uses advanced techniques that support stable bone healing and minimize downtime. As swelling decreases, jawline and cheek contours become more defined, revealing the refined shape achieved through carefully planned bone repositioning.

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How does an osteotomy change the facial structure?

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An osteotomy changes facial structure by carefully cutting and repositioning the bones to improve proportion and symmetry. Patients searching for facial contouring osteotomy often want adjustments to jaw width, midface projection, or lower-face silhouette. Dr. Charles Kim evaluates muscle balance, bone angles, and soft-tissue drape to ensure that structural improvements enhance overall harmony. The result is a smoother, more balanced facial profile that looks naturally refined.

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Can osteotomy help correct asymmetrical jawlines or cheekbones?

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Yes, osteotomy is one of the most effective procedures for correcting jaw or cheekbone asymmetry. Patients searching for facial asymmetry correction surgery often experience one-sided width differences or uneven bone projection. Dr. Charles Kim repositions or reduces bone segments to create a more balanced contour. This approach addresses the underlying structural causes, resulting in a harmonious and stable facial shape that looks naturally aligned.

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Will osteotomy surgery give me natural-looking facial results?

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Yes, osteotomy can achieve extremely natural results when planned precisely. At CK Plastic Surgery, Dr. Charles Kim uses 3D imaging to preview bone movements and ensure subtle, harmonious changes. Individuals researching natural osteotomy results often worry about looking overly sculpted or artificial. By respecting anatomical proportions and soft-tissue relationships, the final outcome enhances the shape without compromising your natural identity or facial expressiveness.

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How long do facial osteotomy results usually last?

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Osteotomy results are permanent because the repositioned bone fuses in its new location. Patients exploring long-term osteotomy outcomes often want reassurance that the facial reshaping will remain stable. Dr. Charles Kim uses secure fixation and precise bone alignment to support durable results. Once healed, the structural improvements remain consistent, creating lasting refinement in jawline width, cheekbone contour, or chin projection depending on the treatment plan.

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