In Korea, combining double eyelid surgery with ptosis correction has become increasingly common—especially among patients seeking not only aesthetic enhancement but also functional improvement. While double eyelid surgery creates a visible upper eyelid fold, ptosis correction addresses a medical or anatomical issue: drooping of the upper eyelids (called ptosis) that can cause tired-looking eyes, asymmetry, or even obstructed vision.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of why combining these two procedures in Korea is a safe, smart, and popular choice—especially for patients with subtle eyelid drooping or those who want brighter, more youthful eyes.
🧠 What Is Ptosis?
Ptosis (눈꺼풀처짐) is a condition where the upper eyelid droops lower than normal due to weak or stretched levator muscles (responsible for lifting the eyelid). It can be congenital (from birth) or acquired over time due to aging, trauma, or prior surgeries.
Symptoms include:
- Constant sleepy or fatigued look
- Asymmetrical eyes
- Difficulty keeping eyes fully open
- Head tilting to compensate for reduced vision
✂️ Why Combine Ptosis Correction with Double Eyelid Surgery?
🎯 1. Comprehensive Eye Enhancement
While double eyelid surgery improves appearance, ptosis correction improves eyelid function. When combined, the result is:
- A well-positioned, defined crease
- Wider, more alert-looking eyes
- Improved symmetry between both eyes
🧑⚕️ 2. One Surgery, One Recovery
Undergoing both procedures at the same time means:
- Reduced anesthesia exposure
- Shorter overall downtime
- Lower cost than doing each surgery separately
📐 3. Tailored Crease Placement
Ptosis often affects how the upper eyelid folds. By correcting it during surgery, Korean doctors can precisely place the crease at a height that’s both aesthetic and functional, avoiding post-op issues like uneven folds or secondary creases.
⚙️ How the Procedures Work Together
🧵 Double Eyelid Surgery (Incisional or Non-Incisional)
- Creates the desired upper eyelid crease
- Removes excess skin or fat (if needed)
- Defines the fold based on your eye shape and preferences
🪡 Ptosis Correction (Levator or Müller’s Muscle Adjustment)
- Tightens the muscle responsible for lifting the eyelid
- Raises the drooping lid to restore symmetry and openness
- Can be mild (hidden inside the eyelid) or more involved (external approach)
Korean surgeons use microsurgical tools to perform both steps with extreme precision and minimal scarring.
👁️ Who Needs Both Procedures?
You’re a good candidate for combined double eyelid surgery + ptosis correction if you have:
✅ Asymmetrical eyes (one more droopy than the other)
✅ A tired or sleepy appearance even after a double eyelid procedure
✅ Low-set or hidden creases despite prior surgery
✅ Vision issues from eyelid drooping
✅ Aging-related lid droop with sagging skin
🔍 The Korean Advantage
🎓 Highly Specialized Surgeons
Many Korean plastic surgeons focus exclusively on oculoplastic surgery, meaning they have specialized training in eyelid anatomy, eye muscle function, and revision cases.
💻 Digital Simulation & Pre-Surgery Testing
Korean clinics often use eye-opening strength tests, digital eyelid height measurements, and photo-based simulations to precisely plan:
- Crease height
- Muscle adjustment level
- Expected eye-opening appearance post-surgery
🏥 High-Tech Tools & Techniques
Top clinics in Seoul use:
- High-magnification microscopes
- Ultra-fine dissolvable sutures
- Scar-minimizing incision placements
- Hidden ptosis correction through the conjunctival route (no skin incision)
💰 Cost of Combined Surgery in Korea
| Item | Estimated Price (KRW) | Estimated Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Double Eyelid Surgery (Both Eyes) | ₩1,200,000 – ₩2,500,000 | $900 – $1,900 |
| Ptosis Correction (Add-On) | ₩1,500,000 – ₩3,000,000 | $1,150 – $2,300 |
| Combined Procedure (Full Package) | ₩2,800,000 – ₩5,500,000 | $2,100 – $4,200 |
| Post-Op Care & Medications | Often included | Often included |
💬 Prices vary depending on clinic reputation, doctor experience, and surgical complexity.
📆 Recovery Timeline
| Day | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1–3 | Swelling, tightness, and mild bruising |
| Day 5–7 | Stitch removal (if non-dissolvable used) |
| Day 7–10 | Most swelling subsides |
| Week 2–3 | Crease begins to soften and blend |
| 1–3 months | Final results gradually emerge |
🛌 Post-Op Care Tips
- Sleep with your head elevated for the first week
- Apply cold compresses to minimize swelling
- Avoid eye strain, contact lenses, and heavy makeup for at least 1–2 weeks
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions on wound care and ointments
- Return for follow-up to monitor eyelid muscle function
📝 Final Thoughts
Combining double eyelid surgery with ptosis correction in Korea offers both aesthetic harmony and functional improvement. Whether you’re dealing with subtle droopiness or a more noticeable imbalance, Korean surgeons are internationally trusted for their ability to deliver natural, symmetrical, and lasting results—all while preserving your unique eye shape and ethnicity.
