Treatment Overview
Orbital contouring Korea is a specialized type of facial bone surgery that reshapes the bones surrounding the eyes (the orbital rim and adjacent structures) to achieve a more balanced, symmetrical, and aesthetically pleasing appearance. It is often performed as part of facial contouring, facial feminization surgery (FFS), or facial masculinization surgery (FMS), depending on patient goals.
In Korea, orbital contouring has become increasingly popular due to the country’s reputation for precision bone surgery, advanced 3D imaging, and natural-looking results. Surgeons in Seoul are among the most experienced in Asia at handling delicate orbital bone modifications, ensuring both safety and aesthetic harmony.
Purpose & Benefits
Orbital contouring focuses on reshaping the bony structures around the eyes to correct irregularities, soften harsh features, or create gender-affirming results.
Key benefits include:
- Softer and more youthful eye appearance.
- Smoother transition between the forehead, brow ridge, and upper orbital rim.
- Correction of asymmetry or irregular orbital bone structure.
- Enhanced results when combined with brow bone reduction, forehead reconstruction, or eyelid surgery.
- For facial feminization: reduction of a prominent or deep-set orbital rim for a softer, more feminine eye shape.
- For masculinization: subtle enhancement of orbital definition for a stronger, more structured look.
Ideal Candidates
Orbital contouring is suitable for individuals who:
- Have a prominent or irregular orbital rim that makes the eyes look deep-set or harsh.
- Desire a smoother, softer orbital transition for a more feminine appearance.
- Seek more defined orbital contours for masculine enhancement.
- Have facial asymmetry affecting the orbital region.
- Are undergoing facial feminization or masculinization surgery as part of gender-affirming care.
- Are in good health and have realistic expectations.
Possible Risks & Complications
Orbital contouring in Korea is performed with the highest safety standards, but potential risks include:
- Swelling and bruising around the eyes.
- Temporary numbness or tightness in the forehead or orbital region.
- Rare risks of asymmetry if healing is uneven.
- Infection or prolonged healing in complex bone reduction cases.
Korean clinics minimize these risks by using 3D CT scanning, computer-assisted surgical planning, and ultrasonic bone-cutting tools, which allow for highly accurate and safe bone reshaping.
Surgical Techniques Used
Korean surgeons use advanced techniques to reshape the orbital rim and surrounding areas. These may include:
- Orbital Rim Reduction: Softening a protruding orbital ridge for a smoother contour.
- Brow Bone & Upper Orbit Contouring: Often combined with brow bone reduction or forehead reshaping for balanced results.
- Orbital Augmentation (Bone or Implant): Adding subtle volume for a stronger orbital frame in masculinization procedures.
- Asymmetry Correction: Adjusting irregular orbital bones for symmetry.
- Combination Procedures: Frequently paired with forehead reconstruction, eyelid surgery, or cheek contouring for complete facial balance.
The most advanced Korean methods use endoscopic-assisted incisions placed in hidden areas (such as the scalp or eyelid crease) to minimize scarring.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery after orbital contouring follows this timeline:
- First 1–2 weeks: Swelling and bruising around the eyes are common. Cold compresses and prescribed medications help reduce discomfort.
- 2–4 weeks: Patients gradually return to normal activities, though mild swelling may persist.
- 3–6 months: Final bone contour settles, revealing smoother orbital transitions and natural results.
Korean clinics provide extensive aftercare, including anti-swelling therapies, scar management treatments, and regular follow-ups to ensure smooth recovery.
Results & Longevity
The results of orbital contouring are permanent, as the bone structure itself is reshaped. Patients typically experience:
- Softer, more balanced orbital features.
- A youthful, natural eye appearance.
- Long-lasting results that age gracefully.
- Gender-affirming changes that align appearance with identity.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is a top global destination for orbital contouring due to its:
- World-class surgical expertise in bone contouring and facial feminization/masculinization.
- Use of 3D CT imaging, digital surgical simulation, and ultrasonic cutting tools for precision.
- Customized approach tailored to gender, ethnicity, and patient goals.
- Strong medical tourism infrastructure with English-speaking coordinators, luxury recovery facilities, and comprehensive aftercare.
International patients often combine orbital contouring with jawline contouring, forehead reconstruction, or nasal surgery for complete facial balance in one surgical plan.
Cost Range
The cost of orbital contouring in Korea depends on the complexity of the procedure and whether it is combined with other surgeries:
- Orbital rim contouring only: USD $6,000 – $10,000
- Orbital contouring + brow bone or forehead surgery: USD $10,000 – $18,000
- Full FFS packages (with multiple contouring procedures): USD $20,000 – $35,000+
While not inexpensive, Korea offers competitive pricing compared to the US or Europe, with the advantage of surgeons who perform high volumes of orbital and craniofacial contouring.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Some of the most trusted clinics for orbital contouring include:
- ID Hospital – globally recognized for bone contouring and facial feminization.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – specialists in natural facial harmony and orbital reshaping.
- JW Plastic Surgery – known for precision bone work and reconstructive techniques.
- View Plastic Surgery – popular with international patients seeking combined orbital and facial contouring.
