Can I Get My Wide Zygomatic Arches Reduced Without Damaging The Muscle Underneath Them?

Q: Dr. Eppley, Hello I have a prominent zygomatic arch that extends outward due to acromegaly. From beneath the eyes to the ear. Is it possible to push this bone inward without damaging the muscle attached to it?

A: What you are referring to is classic cheekbone reduction osteotomies…which is essentially zygomatic arch osteotomies to move the entire bow of the arch inward. This does not adversely effect the temporalis muscle which passes underneath the arch or the origin of the masseter muscle which attaches to its side.

Before such  surgery it is prudent to get a 3D CT scan to plan the osteotomy bone cuts.

Dr Barry Eppley

World Renowned Plastic Surgeon