Treatment Overview
Upper Eyelid Lift with Lateral Extension is an advanced form of upper blepharoplasty that not only addresses drooping eyelids but also extends the lift toward the outer corners of the eyes. This technique is especially effective for patients with lateral hooding (excess skin extending to the outer eyelid area) or those who want a more open, refreshed, and youthful eye shape.
Unlike traditional upper eyelid surgery that focuses mainly on the central portion of the eyelid, the lateral extension ensures smoother eyelid contours, reduces heaviness at the eye corners, and creates a brighter, more balanced appearance.
In Korea, surgeons have refined this method to combine skin excision, muscle tightening, and fat adjustment, all while prioritizing natural-looking double eyelid lines and minimizing visible scars.
Purpose & Benefits
- Corrects drooping or sagging of the upper eyelid and outer corners
- Improves lateral hooding for a smoother eyelid contour
- Enhances peripheral vision obstructed by excess eyelid skin
- Creates a refreshed and youthful appearance
- Provides more balanced and harmonious eye shape
- Long-lasting results compared to standard upper blepharoplasty
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with droopy eyelids and excess skin at the outer corners
- Individuals experiencing heaviness or hooding in the lateral eyelid area
- Those with functional issues like blocked vision from sagging upper eyelids
- Patients seeking a more youthful, lifted, and brighter eye appearance
- Individuals who want natural-looking double eyelids with lateral balance
Possible Risks & Complications
- Swelling and bruising (temporary)
- Dry eyes or mild irritation during healing
- Scarring (usually well-hidden in natural eyelid crease)
- Asymmetry or irregular fold formation
- Rare complications such as eyelid stiffness or overcorrection
Techniques Used in Korea
Korean surgeons apply a highly refined and precise approach:
- Excess Skin & Fat Removal: Eliminates sagging skin and repositions fat for smooth contours.
- Lateral Extension Technique: Extends the incision toward the outer corner to correct hooding.
- Levator or Muscle Adjustment: Improves eyelid opening and enhances eye definition.
- Scar Minimization: Incisions are hidden within the eyelid crease for a natural result.
- Combination Approach: Often paired with lateral canthoplasty, brow lift, or ptosis correction for optimal aesthetics.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Initial swelling and bruising last 7–10 days.
- Stitches are removed after 5–7 days.
- Normal activities can usually be resumed within 10–14 days.
- Cold compresses and eye drops help reduce swelling and dryness.
- Final results appear after 1–3 months, once healing is complete.
Results & Longevity
- Brighter and more open eyes with balanced shape
- Reduced drooping and heaviness at the outer eyelid area
- Natural double eyelid crease with lateral smoothness
- Improved vision in patients with functional obstruction
- Results typically last 8–12 years, depending on skin quality and aging process
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is a global leader in advanced eyelid surgeries, including lateral extension techniques:
- Customization: Each surgery is designed according to the patient’s anatomy and eye shape goals.
- Advanced Surgical Precision: Surgeons use microsurgical tools for accurate and scar-minimized results.
- Natural Aesthetics: Focus on harmony, avoiding an over-operated or artificial look.
- Integrated Care: May be combined with canthoplasty, brow lift, or fat repositioning for comprehensive rejuvenation.
- Medical Tourism Support: International patients benefit from translators, aftercare packages, and recovery assistance.
Cost Range in Korea
The cost of Upper Eyelid Lift with Lateral Extension depends on the complexity of the procedure, surgeon’s expertise, and clinic reputation:
- Basic Upper Eyelid Lift: ₩2,500,000 – ₩4,500,000 KRW ($1,900 – $3,500 USD)
- With Lateral Extension: ₩4,500,000 – ₩7,500,000 KRW ($3,500 – $5,800 USD)
- Premium Clinics in Gangnam: ₩7,500,000 – ₩10,000,000 KRW ($5,800 – $7,700 USD)
- Revision Cases: ₩8,000,000 – ₩12,000,000 KRW ($6,200 – $9,200 USD)
Compared to the U.S. or Europe, where similar advanced eyelid surgeries cost $8,000–$15,000, Korea offers high-quality results at more competitive prices.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Specialized in advanced eyelid surgeries with natural aesthetics.
- ID Hospital – Known for complex eyelid corrections and revision surgeries.
- View Plastic Surgery – Popular among international patients for combined upper and lateral procedures.
- Regen Plastic Surgery – Focuses on scar-minimization and advanced fat repositioning techniques.
- JW Plastic Surgery – Experienced in treating challenging eyelid cases with precision.
Summary
Upper Eyelid Lift with Lateral Extension in Korea is an advanced surgical solution for patients dealing with droopy eyelids and lateral hooding. By extending the lift toward the outer corners, this technique restores youthful, refreshed eyes while improving both function and aesthetics. With Korea’s reputation for surgical innovation, natural-looking results, and affordable costs, it has become a top destination for patients worldwide seeking advanced upper eyelid rejuvenation.
