Treatment Overview
Arcus Marginalis Release with Fat Repositioning is a highly specialized surgical technique used to correct deep tear trough deformities and under-eye hollowness. The arcus marginalis is a fibrous ligament along the orbital rim that contributes to a shadowed or sunken appearance under the eyes. By releasing this ligament and repositioning orbital fat, surgeons can smooth the transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek, restoring youthful volume and eliminating harsh shadows.
In Korea, plastic surgeons have refined this approach to achieve scarless, natural, and long-lasting results. Instead of simply removing fat (which can worsen hollowness), Korean techniques focus on fat preservation and redistribution for a rejuvenated, natural look.
Purpose & Benefits
- Corrects tear trough deformity and under-eye hollows
- Smooths the eyelid–cheek junction for a youthful contour
- Preserves and repositions fat instead of removing it, preventing a hollowed-out look
- Reduces dark circles caused by shadowing and volume loss
- Improves overall harmony between the eyes and midface
- Provides long-lasting, natural rejuvenation compared to filler treatments
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with visible tear trough deformity or deep under-eye grooves
- Individuals with early signs of aging, such as hollowing and shadowing under the eyes
- Those with under-eye bags where fat repositioning (not removal) is beneficial
- Patients who previously had fat removal surgery and developed hollowness
- People seeking a permanent solution instead of temporary dermal fillers
Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary swelling and bruising (1–2 weeks)
- Mild asymmetry in fat distribution (rare, correctable)
- Temporary numbness or tightness under the eyes
- Dryness or mild irritation during recovery
- Rare risk of irregular contour if healing is uneven
Surgical Techniques Used in Korea
Korean surgeons employ advanced, minimally invasive techniques to maximize results:
- Arcus Marginalis Release: The fibrous attachment along the orbital rim is carefully released to eliminate tethering and harsh shadows.
- Fat Repositioning/Redraping: Orbital fat pads are preserved and repositioned over the orbital rim to fill hollows.
- Transconjunctival Approach: Incisions are often made inside the lower eyelid to avoid visible scars.
- Combination Treatments: Sometimes combined with laser resurfacing, stem cell therapy, or midface lifting for enhanced rejuvenation.
- Customized Planning: Surgery is tailored based on individual anatomy to achieve natural blending.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Initial swelling and bruising typically last 7–10 days.
- Stitches (if external incisions are made) are removed within 5–7 days.
- Most patients resume daily activities after 10–14 days.
- Cold compresses, prescribed eye drops, and ointments help with healing.
- Final results are visible after 1–3 months, once tissues fully settle.
Results & Longevity
- Smooth, youthful under-eye contour
- Natural blending of the eyelid and cheek junction
- Reduction in hollowness, tear trough shadows, and dark circle appearance
- Long-lasting improvement, often 10+ years depending on lifestyle and aging
- More stable and permanent than filler-based treatments
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is globally recognized for its expertise in fat-preserving lower eyelid surgeries, and arcus marginalis release with fat repositioning is widely performed in top clinics:
- Precision & Innovation: Korean surgeons specialize in fat redraping, ensuring natural volume restoration.
- Natural Results: Emphasis is placed on avoiding overcorrection or a “done” look.
- Scarless Methods: Use of transconjunctival approaches minimizes visible scars.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Clinics use 3D imaging and advanced surgical planning.
- Medical Tourism Care: International patients benefit from interpreters, travel support, and personalized aftercare services.
Cost Range in Korea
The price of Arcus Marginalis Release with Fat Repositioning varies based on clinic reputation, surgeon experience, and added procedures:
- Basic Procedure: ₩3,500,000 – ₩5,500,000 KRW ($2,700 – $4,200 USD)
- With Laser Resurfacing or Adjunct Procedures: ₩5,500,000 – ₩8,000,000 KRW ($4,200 – $6,200 USD)
- Premium Clinics in Gangnam: ₩8,000,000 – ₩10,000,000 KRW ($6,200 – $7,700 USD)
- Revision Cases: ₩9,000,000 – ₩12,000,000 KRW ($6,900 – $9,200 USD)
In comparison, similar advanced tear trough correction surgeries in the U.S. or Europe often cost $10,000–$15,000, making Korea a highly attractive option.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- ID Hospital – Known for advanced under-eye rejuvenation and revision cases.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Specializes in natural fat repositioning with minimal scarring.
- JW Plastic Surgery – Expert in complex tear trough corrections and fat redraping.
- Regen Plastic Surgery – Offers combined lower eyelid rejuvenation and scarless techniques.
- View Plastic Surgery – Popular among international patients for tear trough correction surgeries.
Summary
Arcus Marginalis Release with Fat Repositioning in Korea is one of the most advanced and effective solutions for tear trough correction. By releasing the orbital ligament and carefully repositioning fat, Korean surgeons restore smooth, youthful under-eye contours while avoiding the hollowed look associated with traditional fat removal. With Korea’s expertise, advanced surgical methods, and competitive pricing, this procedure provides natural, long-lasting results for patients worldwide seeking under-eye rejuvenation.
