Treatment Overview
Arcus Marginalis Release with Fat Repositioning is an advanced lower eyelid surgery designed to rejuvenate the under-eye area by addressing tear trough deformities, hollowness, and puffiness. The arcus marginalis is a natural anatomical structure along the orbital rim that often causes a demarcation between the lower eyelid and cheek, making the eyes appear tired and aged.
This procedure carefully releases the arcus marginalis ligament and repositions orbital fat pads to smooth the transition between the eyelid and the cheek. By redistributing fat rather than removing it, surgeons preserve youthful volume and create a more natural, refreshed appearance.
Purpose & Benefits
- Corrects under-eye hollows and tear trough deformities
- Eliminates the tired or sunken-eye look
- Smooths the eyelid–cheek junction for natural harmony
- Preserves and repositions fat rather than removing it, preventing a hollowed-out appearance
- Creates long-lasting, youthful under-eye rejuvenation
- Can be combined with lower blepharoplasty for enhanced results
Ideal Candidates
- Individuals with visible tear troughs or under-eye hollowness
- Patients with under-eye puffiness due to fat protrusion
- Those seeking natural rejuvenation without excessive fat removal
- People noticing early signs of aging around the lower eyelid and midface
- Healthy patients with realistic expectations for surgical outcomes
Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary swelling, bruising, and redness
- Mild asymmetry during the healing process
- Overcorrection or undercorrection (rare, but possible)
- Visible contour irregularities if healing does not proceed evenly
- Infection or scarring (rare with skilled surgical techniques)
Surgical Techniques Used
- Arcus Marginalis Release: The ligament along the orbital rim is released to allow smooth fat repositioning.
- Fat Repositioning: Orbital fat pads are shifted downward and secured to cover hollowness in the tear trough and upper cheek.
- Transconjunctival or Subciliary Approach: Access is made from inside the eyelid (scarless method) or just below the lash line, depending on patient needs.
- Customized Design: Each patient’s anatomy is carefully analyzed to determine the amount and direction of fat repositioning for the most natural results.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Initial swelling and bruising typically subside within 1–2 weeks.
- Stitches (if external incisions are used) are usually removed within 5–7 days.
- Patients can return to normal daily activities in about a week, though strenuous activity should be avoided for 3–4 weeks.
- Final results become apparent after 1–3 months, once tissues have settled.
- Proper aftercare, including cold compresses, prescribed ointments, and sun protection, supports optimal healing.
Results & Longevity
- Smooth and natural under-eye contour
- Long-lasting improvement in tear trough deformities
- Brighter, less fatigued appearance
- Preservation of natural volume prevents hollow or “operated” look
- Results are generally permanent, though the natural aging process continues
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is one of the world leaders in Arcus Marginalis Release with Fat Repositioning, thanks to its advanced surgical methods and natural aesthetic approach.
- Precision Fat Preservation: Korean surgeons emphasize fat repositioning over removal, preventing hollowing and ensuring youthful volume.
- Scarless Techniques: Transconjunctival approaches (from inside the eyelid) are often used to avoid visible scars.
- Combination Procedures: Frequently paired with lower blepharoplasty or midface lift for comprehensive rejuvenation.
- Advanced Aftercare Systems: Korean clinics provide LED light therapy, anti-swelling treatments, and scar management programs to accelerate healing.
- Medical Tourism Services: Clinics in Seoul offer English-speaking staff, personalized surgery planning, and recovery care for international patients.
Cost Range in Korea
The cost of Arcus Marginalis Release with Fat Repositioning depends on the surgeon’s expertise, clinic reputation, and whether combination procedures are included.
- Basic Arcus Marginalis Release with Fat Repositioning: ₩3,500,000 – ₩5,000,000 KRW ($2,700 – $3,900 USD)
- With Lower Blepharoplasty: ₩5,000,000 – ₩7,500,000 KRW ($3,900 – $5,800 USD)
- Revision Surgery: ₩6,000,000 – ₩9,000,000 KRW ($4,700 – $7,000 USD)
Most Korean clinics include consultation, anesthesia, surgery, and standard aftercare in their packages, making the procedure cost-effective compared to many Western countries.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- ID Hospital – Known for advanced lower eyelid rejuvenation and fat preservation.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Specializes in natural under-eye contouring and scar-minimizing methods.
- Dream Medical Group – Frequently chosen for tear trough correction combined with midface rejuvenation.
- Regen Plastic Surgery – Renowned for handling complex revision surgeries and advanced fat repositioning.
- View Plastic Surgery – Offers high patient satisfaction with scarless techniques and excellent aftercare.
Summary
Arcus Marginalis Release with Fat Repositioning is one of the most effective surgical methods for restoring youthful, natural-looking under-eyes. By combining ligament release with precise fat repositioning, this procedure smooths the eyelid–cheek junction, eliminates hollowness, and avoids the hollowed-out look of older fat removal techniques. With Korea’s expertise, advanced technology, and competitive pricing, it remains a top destination for patients seeking safe, effective, and long-lasting under-eye rejuvenation.
