Treatment Overview
The Subperiosteal Fat Repositioning Technique is an advanced lower eyelid surgery that corrects under-eye bags and tear trough deformities by repositioning orbital fat beneath the periosteum (the thin membrane covering the bone). This approach provides deep, long-lasting structural support and ensures a smooth transition between the lower eyelid and cheek.
Unlike traditional fat removal, which can cause a hollowed look, the subperiosteal technique preserves and repositions fat into hollow areas, correcting puffiness and dark circles simultaneously. Korean surgeons are global leaders in this precise surgical method, often combining it with arcus marginalis release, midface lifting, or laser resurfacing for the most natural outcomes.
Purpose & Benefits
- Corrects under-eye bags and puffiness
- Smooths deep tear troughs and hollow under-eyes
- Provides structural rejuvenation with long-lasting support
- Preserves fat instead of removing it (avoids hollow appearance)
- Improves midface contour by repositioning fat closer to the cheekbone
- Produces a natural, youthful look that blends eyelid and cheek
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with moderate to severe under-eye bags
- Individuals with deep tear trough depressions
- Patients with a noticeable lid-cheek junction (harsh line under the eyes)
- Those who want long-lasting structural correction
- Patients seeking natural results without a hollowed or over-corrected look
Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary bruising and swelling (2–3 weeks)
- Mild numbness under the eyes (usually temporary)
- Rare risk of asymmetry in fat distribution
- Under- or over-correction requiring revision
- Prolonged swelling in some patients due to the deeper surgical plane
Surgical Techniques Used in Korea
Korean surgeons use high-precision methods when performing the subperiosteal fat repositioning technique:
- Subperiosteal Dissection – Fat is mobilized beneath the periosteum for structural anchoring
- Arcus Marginalis Release – Loosening the tethering ligament for smooth fat redistribution
- Fat Repositioning & Fixation – Orbital fat is anchored to the infraorbital rim, filling hollows naturally
- Combination with Midface Lift – In some cases, lifting midface tissue enhances results
- Adjunctive Procedures – Laser resurfacing or stem-cell–enriched fat grafting may be combined for skin improvement
Recovery & Aftercare
- Initial swelling and bruising: 10–14 days
- Most patients resume daily activities in 10–14 days
- Makeup can be applied after about 2 weeks
- Final results settle in 2–3 months
- Cold compresses, anti-swelling medication, and sleeping with head elevated recommended
- Regular follow-ups with the surgeon ensure symmetry and proper healing
Results & Longevity
- Smooth transition between eyelid and cheek
- Reduced puffiness and correction of tear trough deformity
- More youthful and rejuvenated lower eyelid appearance
- Results are long-lasting (8–12 years or more) due to structural fat repositioning
- Maintains natural volume with minimal risk of hollowing
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is renowned for its expertise in subperiosteal fat repositioning, with surgeons trained in advanced eyelid anatomy and microsurgical techniques. Patients benefit from:
- Customized Planning – Tailored to eyelid anatomy and degree of hollowness
- Precision Fat Fixation – Stable fat anchoring prevents recurrence of under-eye bags
- Scar-Minimizing Approaches – Often performed via transconjunctival incision (inside eyelid)
- Holistic Aesthetic Care – Often combined with skin rejuvenation, stem-cell therapy, or laser treatments
- Medical Tourism Services – English-speaking staff, recovery support, and advanced hospital facilities in Seoul
Cost Range in Korea
The cost of Subperiosteal Fat Repositioning varies by complexity and clinic:
- Basic Surgery: ₩4,500,000 – ₩6,000,000 KRW ($3,500 – $4,600 USD)
- With Arcus Marginalis Release: ₩6,000,000 – ₩8,000,000 KRW ($4,600 – $6,200 USD)
- Premium Clinics (Top Seoul Surgeons): ₩8,000,000 – ₩12,000,000 KRW ($6,200 – $9,300 USD)
- Revision Cases: ₩10,000,000 – ₩15,000,000 KRW ($7,700 – $11,600 USD)
This is still more cost-effective than the U.S. or Europe, where similar techniques can exceed $12,000–$18,000 USD.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- ID Hospital – Famous for advanced eye rejuvenation techniques and revisions
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Expertise in natural fat repositioning and midface balance
- JW Plastic Surgery – Known for combining structural eyelid correction with anti-aging care
- View Plastic Surgery – Popular among international patients for complex eye procedures
- Regen Plastic Surgery – Integrates regenerative medicine with eyelid surgeries
Summary
Subperiosteal Fat Repositioning in Korea is an advanced eyelid surgery that corrects under-eye bags and hollows by redistributing orbital fat beneath the periosteum for long-lasting, structural results. Unlike simple fat removal, this technique preserves natural volume and ensures a smooth, youthful transition between eyelid and cheek. With Korea’s expertise, cutting-edge technology, and competitive pricing, patients worldwide choose Seoul for this scar-minimizing and transformative eye rejuvenation procedure.
