Treatment Overview
Levator Aponeurosis Advancement is a surgical procedure designed to correct ptosis (drooping eyelids) by tightening and repositioning the levator aponeurosis—the tendon-like structure that lifts the upper eyelid. Over time, the levator aponeurosis may weaken, stretch, or detach from the tarsal plate, leading to eyelid drooping that affects both appearance and vision.
In Korea, this technique is highly refined, combining functional improvement with aesthetic enhancement. Surgeons perform the procedure with extreme precision to restore natural eyelid height, achieve symmetry, and often integrate the surgery with double eyelid formation for patients seeking cosmetic enhancement alongside functional repair.
Purpose & Benefits
- Corrects moderate to severe eyelid drooping caused by weakened or detached levator aponeurosis.
- Improves visual field obstruction, enhancing eyesight and daily comfort.
- Creates a brighter, more alert appearance, making patients look younger and more refreshed.
- Allows simultaneous double eyelid surgery, if desired, for both functional and aesthetic results.
- Provides long-lasting correction, as the aponeurosis is directly tightened and reattached.
Ideal Candidates
- Individuals with moderate to severe ptosis due to levator aponeurosis weakening or disinsertion.
- Patients who notice tired or sleepy-looking eyes despite being well-rested.
- Those with visual obstruction from drooping upper eyelids.
- Adults in good health, with no uncontrolled eye or neurological conditions.
- Patients seeking both functional vision improvement and cosmetic eyelid enhancement.
Possible Risks & Complications
Like any surgical procedure, there are risks, though minimized in Korea due to advanced techniques:
- Temporary swelling, bruising, or mild discomfort.
- Overcorrection or undercorrection of eyelid height.
- Asymmetry between eyelids.
- Temporary dry eye or difficulty fully closing the eyes.
- Rare risks of infection or delayed healing.
Surgical Techniques Used in Korea
Korean surgeons are globally recognized for their skill in levator aponeurosis advancement, using advanced techniques for precise and natural outcomes:
- External Approach – An incision is made in the natural eyelid crease for access.
- Aponeurosis Tightening & Reattachment – The stretched or detached levator aponeurosis is advanced and securely attached to the tarsal plate.
- Simultaneous Double Eyelid Formation – Many Korean patients choose to combine this procedure with double eyelid surgery for enhanced aesthetics.
- Microsurgical Tools – Ultra-fine sutures and magnification ensure accurate correction.
- Customization – Eyelid height and contour are carefully adjusted to suit each patient’s facial harmony.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Initial swelling and bruising last about 1–2 weeks.
- Most patients return to work or daily life within 7–10 days.
- Final eyelid height and contour stabilize in 1–3 months.
- Korean clinics often provide specialized aftercare, including laser treatments, lymphatic drainage, and scar-minimizing therapies.
- Follow-up visits ensure proper healing and long-term symmetry.
Results & Longevity
- Eyelids appear brighter, lifted, and more symmetrical, restoring a youthful and refreshed look.
- Functional benefits include improved vision where drooping eyelids previously caused obstruction.
- Results are typically long-lasting, as the levator aponeurosis is physically tightened and secured.
- In Korea, surgeons emphasize natural outcomes—avoiding an overcorrected or artificial appearance.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is one of the most sought-after destinations for ptosis correction, especially techniques like Levator Aponeurosis Advancement. Patients benefit from:
- Comprehensive Eye Evaluation – Detailed assessment of levator function, eyelid symmetry, and vision.
- Digital Imaging & Simulations – Some clinics offer previews of surgical outcomes.
- Customized Surgical Planning – Adjustments tailored to each patient’s eyelid height, crease preference, and facial balance.
- Scar-Minimizing Techniques – Incisions are hidden in the natural crease, leaving results virtually scarless.
- Medical Tourism Services – English-speaking coordinators, airport transfers, recovery accommodations, and post-op care for international patients.
Cost Range
The cost of Levator Aponeurosis Advancement in Korea typically ranges from ₩3,500,000 to ₩7,000,000 KRW (USD $2,600 – $5,200) depending on:
- The surgeon’s expertise and clinic reputation.
- Whether one or both eyelids are treated.
- Inclusion of additional procedures (double eyelid surgery, fat repositioning, etc.).
- Aftercare and medical tourism package services.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- ID Hospital – Known for advanced ptosis correction with aesthetic precision.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Specializes in natural double eyelid + ptosis correction combinations.
- View Plastic Surgery – Offers customized eyelid contouring with functional improvement.
- JW Plastic Surgery – Internationally accredited, trusted by global patients.
- GNG Hospital – Skilled in functional correction with cosmetic enhancement for natural results.
