Treatment Overview
Autologous Fat Grafting to the Tear Trough is a surgical technique where a patient’s own fat is harvested from areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks and carefully injected into the under-eye hollows. This method restores lost volume, reduces the appearance of dark circles, and improves the smooth transition between the eyelid and cheek.
In Korea, surgeons have perfected micro-fat and nano-fat grafting techniques for highly precise, natural results. Unlike synthetic fillers, fat grafting provides a biocompatible and longer-lasting solution, while also improving skin quality through stem-cell–rich components of the fat.
Purpose & Benefits
- Corrects tear trough hollows and deep under-eye grooves
- Reduces the appearance of dark circles caused by shadowing
- Restores youthful volume with a natural look
- Uses the patient’s own fat (no risk of allergic reaction)
- Improves skin quality and texture with stem-cell effects
- Longer-lasting than hyaluronic acid fillers
- Can be combined with other eyelid or facial rejuvenation procedures
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with hollow tear troughs or under-eye volume loss
- Individuals with dark circles caused by shadows, not just pigmentation
- Those who prefer a natural, long-lasting alternative to fillers
- Patients with enough donor fat available for grafting
- People seeking minimally invasive rejuvenation without major surgery
Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary swelling and bruising (1–2 weeks)
- Uneven fat absorption leading to minor asymmetry (may require touch-up)
- Rare risk of overcorrection or lumpiness if fat does not integrate smoothly
- Infection (very rare, minimized with sterile technique)
- Possibility of needing repeat treatments for optimal results
Surgical Techniques Used in Korea
Korean surgeons use highly refined fat grafting methods for tear trough correction:
- Micro-Fat Grafting: Small fat parcels are injected to restore natural volume.
- Nano-Fat Grafting: Ultra-purified fat rich in stem cells is used to improve skin quality.
- Layered Injection Technique: Fat is placed in precise layers for smooth blending.
- Fat Harvesting & Purification: Gentle liposuction is performed to extract fat, which is then purified before injection.
- Combination Approach: Often paired with lower blepharoplasty, laser resurfacing, or PRP therapy for comprehensive rejuvenation.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Mild swelling and bruising for 7–10 days
- Most patients return to normal activities within 5–7 days
- Cold compresses and prescribed medications reduce discomfort
- Fat survival rate improves with proper aftercare (avoiding pressure on the treated area)
- Final results stabilize in 2–3 months once grafted fat integrates with surrounding tissues
Results & Longevity
- Smoother under-eye contour with restored volume
- Reduction of dark shadows and hollowness
- Natural, youthful blending between eyelid and cheek
- Improved skin texture and vitality in the tear trough region
- Results typically last 5–10 years, though some patients may require touch-ups due to partial fat resorption
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is internationally renowned for its precision in fat grafting techniques:
- Advanced Technology: Specialized micro-cannulas and purification systems ensure high fat survival rates.
- Customization: Each procedure is tailored to patient anatomy for natural outcomes.
- Natural Aesthetics: Korean surgeons emphasize smooth blending rather than overfilling.
- Stem-Cell Benefits: Use of nano-fat helps rejuvenate skin in addition to adding volume.
- Medical Tourism Services: Clinics provide interpreter support, aftercare programs, and travel assistance for international patients.
Cost Range in Korea
The cost of Autologous Fat Grafting to Tear Trough depends on the clinic, surgeon, and whether combined treatments are performed:
- Basic Fat Grafting: ₩2,500,000 – ₩4,500,000 KRW ($1,900 – $3,400 USD)
- Advanced Micro/Nano-Fat Techniques: ₩4,500,000 – ₩6,500,000 KRW ($3,400 – $5,000 USD)
- Premium Clinics in Gangnam: ₩6,500,000 – ₩8,500,000 KRW ($5,000 – $6,600 USD)
- Revision or Combination Cases: ₩7,000,000 – ₩10,000,000 KRW ($5,400 – $7,700 USD)
Compared to the U.S. and Europe (where fat grafting to tear troughs often costs $7,000–$12,000), Korea offers a more affordable solution with world-class techniques.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Renowned for advanced fat grafting and natural under-eye rejuvenation.
- ID Hospital – Specializes in micro-fat and combination procedures for tear trough correction.
- JW Plastic Surgery – Known for high survival rates in fat grafting and natural results.
- Regen Plastic Surgery – Focuses on fat grafting with regenerative skin benefits.
- View Plastic Surgery – Popular among international patients for tear trough and midface rejuvenation.
Summary
Autologous Fat Grafting to Tear Trough in Korea is a safe, natural, and long-lasting solution for correcting under-eye hollows and dark circles. By using a patient’s own fat, Korean surgeons restore youthful volume while also enhancing skin quality through regenerative properties. With advanced micro- and nano-fat techniques, natural aesthetics, and competitive pricing, Korea has become one of the most sought-after destinations for patients worldwide seeking permanent tear trough correction.
