Treatment Overview
Internal Levator Resection (ILR) is a surgical technique used to correct mild to moderate ptosis (drooping eyelids) by shortening and tightening the levator palpebrae superioris muscle from the inside of the eyelid. Unlike external levator advancement, this method is performed through the conjunctiva (inner eyelid surface), leaving no visible external scar.
In Korea, this procedure is highly advanced, with surgeons utilizing microsurgical precision, hidden incisions, and digital pre-op planning to ensure natural results. Korean clinics are renowned for achieving eyelid symmetry, functional improvement, and an aesthetic appearance tailored to each patient’s facial harmony.
Purpose & Benefits
- Corrects mild to moderate ptosis where levator function is relatively good.
- Restores a brighter, more youthful, and alert eye appearance.
- Improves visual field obstruction caused by drooping eyelids.
- Leaves no external scar, as surgery is performed from inside the eyelid.
- Provides natural results with minimal downtime compared to external approaches.
- Can be combined with blepharoplasty or double eyelid surgery for enhanced aesthetic outcomes.
Ideal Candidates
- Individuals with mild to moderate drooping eyelids due to levator weakness.
- Patients seeking a scarless technique for ptosis correction.
- Those with sufficient levator muscle function (6–10 mm or more).
- Adults or young patients with congenital or acquired ptosis.
- Individuals who want functional improvement (better vision) alongside cosmetic benefits.
Possible Risks & Complications
As with any eyelid surgery, there are potential risks:
- Temporary swelling, bruising, or redness.
- Mild discomfort or foreign body sensation.
- Overcorrection or undercorrection of eyelid height.
- Asymmetry between the eyelids.
- Rare risk of infection or delayed healing.
In Korea, these risks are minimized through precise pre-op planning, state-of-the-art microsurgical tools, and thorough aftercare.
Surgical Techniques Used in Korea
Korean surgeons emphasize precision and aesthetics in Internal Levator Resection:
- Conjunctival Approach – Incision is made inside the eyelid, leaving the external skin untouched.
- Levator Muscle Shortening – A portion of the levator muscle and Müller’s muscle is carefully resected and tightened.
- Hidden Sutures – Fine sutures adjust eyelid height and contour.
- Microsurgical Precision – High-powered microscopes and delicate instruments ensure accurate correction.
- Combination Procedures – May be paired with double eyelid surgery, blepharoplasty, or fat repositioning for optimal cosmetic results.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Initial swelling and redness last about 1–2 weeks.
- Most patients can return to daily activities within 7–10 days.
- Eye drops and ointments are prescribed to aid healing and reduce dryness.
- Final eyelid height and symmetry stabilize in 1–3 months.
- Korean clinics often provide post-op therapies, such as anti-swelling treatments, scar prevention programs (if external incisions were combined), and detailed follow-up monitoring.
Results & Longevity
- Results are long-lasting as the levator muscle is physically shortened and repositioned.
- Patients achieve brighter, more defined eyes with improved vision.
- Since no external scar is created, the results are aesthetically seamless.
- Outcomes in Korea emphasize a natural look, avoiding an artificial or over-corrected appearance.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is a leading destination for scarless ptosis correction techniques like Internal Levator Resection. The process typically includes:
- Comprehensive Eye Evaluation – Levator function, eyelid symmetry, and visual field testing.
- Digital Simulations – Some clinics offer imaging to preview potential results.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery – Performed with hidden conjunctival incisions for no external scars.
- Advanced Aftercare – Includes anti-swelling care, dry-eye management, and follow-up visits.
- Medical Tourism Support – Translation services, airport transfers, and recovery accommodations for international patients.
Cost Range
The cost of Internal Levator Resection in Korea typically ranges from ₩3,000,000 to ₩6,000,000 KRW (USD $2,200 – $4,500) depending on:
- Surgeon’s expertise and clinic reputation.
- Whether the procedure is performed on one or both eyes.
- Use of additional procedures (blepharoplasty, double eyelid surgery, fat repositioning).
- Inclusion of post-op care services and medical tourism packages.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Known for natural, scarless eyelid correction.
- ID Hospital – Specializes in complex eyelid surgeries with advanced 3D analysis.
- View Plastic Surgery – Offers combined double eyelid + ptosis correction procedures.
- GNG Hospital – Renowned for functional + aesthetic balance in ptosis repair.
- JW Plastic Surgery – Internationally accredited, trusted by medical tourists.
