Treatment Overview
Ptosis correction, also known as blepharoptosis surgery, is a procedure that lifts drooping upper eyelids caused by weakened or stretched levator muscles. In ethnic eyelids, particularly among East Asians, ptosis often appears alongside monolids or low eyelid creases. This can cause the eyes to look small, tired, or asymmetrical.
Korea is world-renowned for ethnic-specific ptosis correction, offering highly customized approaches that not only improve eyelid function but also enhance natural beauty while respecting each patient’s cultural features.
Purpose & Benefits
- Corrects droopy eyelids that obstruct vision
- Creates brighter, more alert eyes
- Balances facial symmetry and harmony
- Preserves or enhances natural ethnic eyelid characteristics
- Improves confidence by reducing a tired or sleepy appearance
- Can be combined with double eyelid surgery for aesthetic refinement
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with congenital ptosis (from birth) or acquired ptosis (aging, muscle weakening, injury)
- Individuals with ethnic eyelids (e.g., monolids, low creases, puffy eyelids) who want natural results
- People whose drooping eyelids interfere with vision or eye function
- Patients seeking larger, more defined, yet culturally respectful eye shapes
- Healthy individuals with realistic expectations
Possible Risks & Complications
While Korea’s surgical safety is excellent, risks may include:
- Temporary swelling, bruising, or redness
- Mild asymmetry during early healing
- Dry eyes or irritation
- Over- or under-correction of eyelid height
- Rare complications such as scarring or prolonged swelling
Surgical Techniques Used
Korean surgeons use specialized methods tailored to ethnic eyelids:
- Levator Muscle Tightening: Shortens or strengthens the eyelid muscle to lift droopy lids.
- Frontalis Sling Technique: For severe ptosis, connecting eyelids to forehead muscles for improved lifting.
- Incisional vs. Non-Incisional Methods: Choice depends on the thickness of the eyelids and the desired crease shape.
- Combination with Double Eyelid Surgery: To create a defined crease while correcting ptosis, resulting in larger, natural-looking eyes.
- Customized Ethnic Design: Korean surgeons emphasize subtle, natural enhancement without erasing ethnic identity.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Swelling and bruising usually last 1–2 weeks
- Stitches (if used) are removed within 5–7 days
- Light daily activities can resume in 1–2 weeks
- Full healing and final results typically take 2–3 months
- Avoid rubbing the eyes, wearing heavy makeup, or using contact lenses during early recovery
Results & Longevity
- Eyes appear more open, awake, and youthful
- Vision obstruction from droopy lids is corrected
- Results are long-lasting, especially with incisional methods
- When combined with double eyelid surgery, results balance aesthetics and functionality
- Properly performed ptosis correction can last a lifetime
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is globally recognized as the top destination for ptosis correction in ethnic eyelids. What makes Korea unique:
- Ethnic-Specific Expertise: Surgeons specialize in Asian eyelid anatomy, ensuring natural results that respect cultural identity.
- High-Volume Experience: Korean plastic surgeons perform thousands of eyelid surgeries each year, achieving precision and consistency.
- Advanced Technology: 3D imaging and micro-incision tools for personalized surgical design.
- Combination Procedures: Ptosis correction is often paired with double eyelid surgery or fat repositioning for optimal outcomes.
- Medical Tourism Support: Clinics offer English-speaking staff, interpreters, and concierge-style aftercare for international patients.
Cost Range in Korea
The cost of ptosis correction in Korea varies based on severity, surgical method, and clinic reputation:
- Mild Ptosis (Non-Incisional Correction): ₩2,500,000 – ₩4,000,000 KRW ($1,900 – $3,000 USD)
- Moderate Ptosis (Incisional Method): ₩3,500,000 – ₩6,000,000 KRW ($2,600 – $4,500 USD)
- Severe Ptosis (Frontalis Sling / Complex Cases): ₩5,000,000 – ₩8,000,000 KRW ($3,800 – $6,100 USD)
- Premium Clinics / Top Surgeons: ₩7,000,000 – ₩12,000,000 KRW ($5,300 – $9,100 USD)
Many clinics also provide packages including consultations, anesthesia, aftercare, and sometimes accommodation support for foreign patients.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- ID Hospital – Famous for complex ptosis correction and double eyelid surgeries.
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Specializes in ethnic-specific eye corrections.
- Dream Medical Group – Known for functional and aesthetic eyelid improvements.
- Regen Plastic Surgery – Expertise in customized crease design for natural results.
- View Plastic Surgery – Popular with international patients for ptosis and monolid correction.
Summary
Ptosis correction in ethnic eyelids in Korea is one of the most advanced and highly customized procedures available worldwide. With techniques designed to enhance both eyelid function and appearance, Korean surgeons excel at delivering results that look natural, respect cultural identity, and last for years. Coupled with affordable pricing and world-class care, Korea remains the leading destination for patients seeking safe, effective, and aesthetically refined ptosis correction.
