Medical Tourism Blog
Bell's Palsy Treatment in Korea: Ptosis Correction Procedures for Effective Recovery
Table of contents
- Ptosis Correction: A Detailed Medical Overview
- Best Clinics in Korea for Bells Palsy
- Ptosis Correction in South Korea: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients
- Addressing Ptosis Related to Bell's Palsy
- Conclusion and Key Considerations for Patients
- References
Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!
Bell's palsy is a neurological condition that causes temporary facial paralysis and can sometimes result in a drooping eyelid, known as ptosis. If you're researching solutions online, this guide offers a clear overview of Bell's palsy, explains ptosis correction surgery, outlines how to get this procedure in South Korea, highlights the benefits of choosing South Korea, and shares patient experiences with this treatment.
Bell's palsy causes sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face due to damage to the facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve). Symptoms usually appear quickly and may worsen over about 48 hours. You might notice a droop on one side of your face, difficulty closing the eye on that side, or an uneven smile. Other symptoms can include jaw or ear pain, increased sensitivity to sound, headaches, loss of taste, and changes in tear and saliva production.
The exact cause of Bell's palsy is often unknown (idiopathic), but it’s strongly linked to viral infections. Viruses like herpes simplex (which causes cold sores) and herpes zoster (which causes shingles) can inflame the facial nerve as it passes through a narrow bone canal. Factors increasing your risk include pregnancy (especially in the third trimester or just after birth), upper respiratory infections like colds or flu, diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. The good news is that most people recover well, with significant improvement in weeks and full recovery within three to six months, though it can sometimes take up to a year. Younger patients tend to recover more fully.
Common Pseudonyms and Alternative Names for Bell's Palsy
Bell's palsy is also called facial palsy, idiopathic peripheral facial palsy, cranial mononeuropathy - Bell palsy, or simply Bell palsy. In some cultures, it’s known as facial hemiplegia, Abu Al-Wajih, or Abu Wajeh, and sometimes referred to as the Seventh Nerve issue. The condition is named after Sir Charles Bell, the neurologist who first described it. While "facial paralysis" is a broader term for facial weakness from various causes, Bell's palsy specifically refers to facial paralysis with an unknown cause.
Diagnosis and Management of Bell's Palsy
Doctors diagnose Bell's palsy by examining your facial muscles for weakness on one side, asking you to perform facial movements. There’s no specific test for Bell's palsy, but tests like electromyography (EMG) can check nerve involvement, blood tests can rule out conditions like Lyme disease or diabetes, and imaging (MRI or CT scans) can exclude other causes.
Treatment usually involves oral corticosteroids like prednisone to reduce nerve inflammation, ideally started within 72 hours of symptom onset. Sometimes antivirals such as acyclovir or valacyclovir are added if a viral cause is suspected. Protecting the affected eye is crucial, especially if the eyelid doesn’t close fully—using lubricating eye drops during the day, ointment at night, and sometimes an eye patch helps prevent corneal damage. Physical therapy, facial exercises, massage, and alternative treatments like acupuncture may support recovery. Since Bell's palsy symptoms can mimic a stroke, immediate medical attention is essential to rule out stroke, which requires different treatment.
Potential Long-Term Effects and Complications
Most people recover fully, but some may experience lasting effects. Rarely, permanent facial nerve damage occurs. Synkinesis, where regenerating nerves miswire causing involuntary muscle movements (like the eye closing when smiling), can happen and may be treated with Botox. If the eyelid can’t close fully, chronic dryness and corneal damage may lead to vision problems. Some patients have persistent facial asymmetry, and Bell's palsy can recur in a small number of cases.
Ptosis Correction: A Detailed Medical Overview
Ptosis, or blepharoptosis, is the drooping of the upper eyelid. It can range from a slight sag to covering the pupil and blocking vision. People with ptosis often look tired or sleepy.
Causes of Ptosis
Ptosis can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life. The most common acquired cause is aging, which weakens or stretches the levator muscle aponeurosis—the tendon that lifts the eyelid (involutional ptosis). Other causes include nerve damage from Bell's palsy, stroke, or third cranial nerve palsy (neurogenic ptosis); muscle disorders like myasthenia gravis or muscular dystrophy (myogenic ptosis); trauma; long-term contact lens use; complications from eye surgeries like cataract or LASIK; and rarely, tumors causing mechanical ptosis.
Medical Procedures for Ptosis Correction
Ptosis surgery aims to raise the upper eyelid to improve vision and appearance. The technique depends on the cause, severity, and levator muscle strength.
-
External Approach (Levator Advancement/Resection): For patients with good levator function, a small incision is made in the eyelid crease to shorten or advance the levator muscle, lifting the eyelid.
-
Internal Approach (Müller's Muscle-Conjunctival Resection - MMCR, Levator Resection): Suitable for mild to moderate ptosis with good response to phenylephrine eye drops. This is done from the eyelid’s underside without external incisions, removing part of Müller's muscle and conjunctiva.
-
Frontalis Sling Fixation: For severe ptosis with poor levator function, the eyelid is connected to the forehead’s frontalis muscle using a sling (silicone rod or fascia), allowing the forehead to lift the eyelid.
Other less common techniques include the Whitnall sling, tarsoaponeurectomy, and tarsomullerectomy (Fasanella-Servat procedure). Surgery is often done under local anesthesia with sedation, allowing adjustments during the procedure for optimal eyelid position.
Recovery Process After Ptosis Correction Surgery
Healing takes weeks to months for swelling to subside and eyelid position to stabilize. Early on, expect swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort, managed with cold compresses, head elevation, and pain medication. Eye drops and ointments protect the eye, especially if eyelid closure is temporarily impaired. Non-dissolvable stitches are usually removed within 5–10 days. Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, rubbing eyes, makeup, and contact lenses for a few weeks. Temporary blurry vision or light sensitivity may occur. Final eyelid symmetry may take weeks to months to appear.
Potential Risks and Complications Associated with Ptosis Correction
Risks include bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, and eyelid asymmetry (over- or undercorrection), which may require revision surgery. Dry eye and irritation are common due to increased eye exposure. Lagophthalmos (incomplete eyelid closure) can raise corneal damage risk, especially in Bell's palsy patients. Rare complications include corneal damage, ptosis recurrence, suture granulomas, and extremely rarely, vision loss.
Best Clinics in Korea for Bells Palsy
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for bells palsy:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| THEPLUS Plastic Surgery | Located in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery offers a comprehensive, four-floor continuum of care—from consultation through surgery and post-operative skincare—delivered by surgeons who are also active researchers and educators. With a philosophy that blends function and beauty, the team emphasizes patient safety, precise communication, and individualized planning. For patients seeking to address facial asymmetry and soft-tissue changes that can follow Bell’s palsy, the clinic’s breadth in facial contouring, eyelid procedures including ptosis correction, facelifting and thread lifting, facial fat grafting, and adjunctive treatments such as Botox and fillers supports nuanced, harmony-focused outcomes that respect natural features. | facial contouring; eyelid procedures including ptosis correction; facelifting and thread lifting; facial fat grafting; Botox and fillers |
| Made Young Plastic Surgery Website | Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic in Seoul’s Gangnam district is a premium center specializing in facial and anti-aging procedures, backed by a verified medical team with an average of over 15 years of experience and direct, doctor-led consultations. Patient safety is central to every step, with full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, a 1:1 dedicated monitoring system, a cross-check emergency response protocol, and full CCTV coverage for transparency. A separate, dedicated aftercare center ensures complete and systematic recovery support. Recognized with the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place, and honored by leading professional societies, Made Young blends proven expertise with meticulous care. | Ptosis correction; upper and lower blepharoplasty; canthoplasty; facelifts; non-invasive lifting; incision-line customization; double eyelid height; eyelid thickness; overall image to restore harmonious, natural-looking balance. |
| SH Clinic Website | Located in Sinsa, Seoul, SH Clinic is a multi-specialty center that brings stem-cell science, women’s healthcare, aesthetic dermatology, and modern plastic surgery together under one roof. Through the SH Stem Cell Center and SH Gynecology Clinic, patients receive personalized, comprehensive care—from facial rejuvenation and anti-aging programs to advanced regenerative strategies and full-spectrum women’s health. This integrated, face-focused expertise makes SH Clinic a standout destination for people seeking to regain facial harmony and confidence after Bell’s palsy. | Multidisciplinary facial recovery in one place: Botox to soften overactive muscles, dermal fillers to rebalance volume, thread lift and laser lifting to refine contours, plus medical skin care to optimize skin quality; Surgical options for lasting symmetry: face contouring, facelift, and upper/lower blepharoplasty; Personalized regenerative perspective: individualized treatment planning through the SH Stem Cell Center with the ability to incorporate regenerative strategies alongside aesthetic and surgical care when appropriate; Precision and natural-looking results: 3-D planning guides facial procedures; hyaluronic-acid fillers offer immediate contouring, and botulinum toxin results typically appear within about a week; Minimally invasive pathways and efficient recovery: many options (injectables, thread lift, laser lifting) offer meaningful improvement with brief downtime before considering surgery; Seamless continuity of care: coordinated dermatology, plastic surgery, and post-procedure skin maintenance support long-term, stable outcomes; Comprehensive care environment: SH Clinic’s women’s health services allow female patients to address gynecologic needs alongside facial recovery in a single, discreet setting; Proven procedural breadth: expertise spans from anti-aging and facial rejuvenation to advanced regenerative therapies (e.g., stem-cell programs) and precise cosmetic surgery—an ideal mix for tailored Bell’s palsy rehabilitation and aesthetic restoration |
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery
Located in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery offers a comprehensive, four-floor continuum of care—from consultation through surgery and post-operative skincare—delivered by surgeons who are also active researchers and educators. With a philosophy that blends function and beauty, the team emphasizes patient safety, precise communication, and individualized planning. For patients seeking to address facial asymmetry and soft-tissue changes that can follow Bell’s palsy, the clinic’s breadth in facial contouring, eyelid procedures including ptosis correction, facelifting and thread lifting, facial fat grafting, and adjunctive treatments such as Botox and fillers supports nuanced, harmony-focused outcomes that respect natural features.
THE PLUS is led by Director Doctors Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons and a globally recognized rhinoplasty specialist known for uniting function with aesthetics, and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, a board-certified surgeon and award-winning 3D implant researcher who is a leading expert in rhinoplasty and facial contouring and runs annual educational sessions for peers. Joined by Dr. Lee, a board-certified breast augmentation specialist with Seoul National University Hospital experience, the team’s academic contributions, international lectures, and authorship—including Dr. Kim’s reference work “Rebuilding Nose”—underscore a commitment to world-class standards. Their collective expertise and harmony-driven approach make THE PLUS a trusted choice for patients navigating post–Bell’s palsy facial balance, seeking natural, long-lasting results with meticulous attention to both function and form.
You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website
Made Young Plastic Surgery
Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic in Seoul’s Gangnam district is a premium center specializing in facial and anti-aging procedures, backed by a verified medical team with an average of over 15 years of experience and direct, doctor-led consultations. Patient safety is central to every step, with full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, a 1:1 dedicated monitoring system, a cross-check emergency response protocol, and full CCTV coverage for transparency. A separate, dedicated aftercare center ensures complete and systematic recovery support. Recognized with the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place, and honored by leading professional societies, Made Young blends proven expertise with meticulous care.
For patients seeking improvement of Bell’s palsy–related eyelid and facial asymmetry, Made Young offers highly tailored solutions led by Dr. Park Byung-Chan—an eye surgery specialist with 15 years of dedicated, exclusive experience. Renowned for natural, beautiful eye results even on the day of surgery, Dr. Park provides genuine, patient-centered care from consultation through surgery, customizing incision lines, double eyelid height, eyelid thickness, and overall image to restore harmonious, natural-looking balance. With a comprehensive range of facial and eyelid procedures—including ptosis correction, upper and lower blepharoplasty, canthoplasty, facelifts, and non-invasive lifting—patients receive individualized plans designed for symmetry, comfort, and confidence, supported by rigorous safety systems and thorough aftercare.
You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website
SH Clinic
Located in Sinsa, Seoul, SH Clinic is a multi-specialty center that brings stem-cell science, women’s healthcare, aesthetic dermatology, and modern plastic surgery together under one roof. Through the SH Stem Cell Center and SH Gynecology Clinic, patients receive personalized, comprehensive care—from facial rejuvenation and anti-aging programs to advanced regenerative strategies and full-spectrum women’s health. This integrated, face-focused expertise makes SH Clinic a standout destination for people seeking to regain facial harmony and confidence after Bell’s palsy.
- Multidisciplinary facial recovery in one place: Botox to soften overactive muscles, dermal fillers to rebalance volume, thread lift and laser lifting to refine contours, plus medical skin care to optimize skin quality
- Surgical options for lasting symmetry: face contouring, facelift, and upper/lower blepharoplasty for patients with persistent asymmetry, laxity, or eyelid changes after Bell’s palsy
- Personalized regenerative perspective: individualized treatment planning through the SH Stem Cell Center with the ability to incorporate regenerative strategies alongside aesthetic and surgical care when appropriate
- Precision and natural-looking results: 3-D planning guides facial procedures; hyaluronic-acid fillers offer immediate contouring, and botulinum toxin results typically appear within about a week
- Minimally invasive pathways and efficient recovery: many options (injectables, thread lift, laser lifting) offer meaningful improvement with brief downtime before considering surgery
- Seamless continuity of care: coordinated dermatology, plastic surgery, and post-procedure skin maintenance support long-term, stable outcomes
- Comprehensive care environment: SH Clinic’s women’s health services allow female patients to address gynecologic needs alongside facial recovery in a single, discreet setting
- Proven procedural breadth: expertise spans from anti-aging and facial rejuvenation to advanced regenerative therapies (e.g., stem-cell programs) and precise cosmetic surgery—an ideal mix for tailored Bell’s palsy rehabilitation and aesthetic restoration
You can check out their website here: SH Clinic Website
Ptosis Correction in South Korea: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients
South Korea is a leading destination for medical tourism, especially for cosmetic and elective surgeries like ptosis correction. This is thanks to its advanced healthcare system, cutting-edge technology, and highly skilled surgeons specializing in oculoplastic surgery. Many surgeons in Seoul have extensive experience and training in advanced eyelid procedures.
Cost is another major advantage—ptosis surgery in South Korea is often about 30% cheaper than in the US, UK, or Australia, while maintaining high standards of care. South Korea is known for high patient satisfaction and natural-looking results that blend well with facial features. Clinics often provide services tailored to international patients, including online consultations, travel and accommodation help, and multilingual staff.
Step-by-Step Process for International Patients Seeking Ptosis Correction in South Korea
-
Research and Select a Clinic: Review websites, before-and-after photos, surgeon credentials, and patient reviews. Check for experience with international patients and support services.
-
Online Consultation: Many clinics offer initial remote consultations to discuss your condition and treatment options.
-
In-Person Consultation: Upon arrival, the surgeon will examine your eyes, assess levator muscle function, and discuss surgical options, risks, and expected outcomes.
-
Pre-Operative Planning: The surgeon creates a personalized plan and provides instructions on medication avoidance and lifestyle changes.
-
Surgery: Typically lasts 1–2 hours under local anesthesia with sedation.
-
Post-Operative Care: Instructions on managing swelling, using eye drops, and follow-up visits for stitch removal and healing monitoring.
Seoul districts like Gangnam and Apgujeong offer convenient accommodations near clinics. Many clinics provide concierge services for airport pickup, lodging, and transportation. Medical visas (short-term C-3-3 or long-term G-1-10) are usually required, with documents including passport, visa form, photos, medical reports, treatment confirmation, and proof of funds. Check with your local Korean embassy for details. Some countries’ citizens may use Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) for short stays.
Benefits of Choosing South Korea for Ptosis Correction Over Other Countries
South Korea offers:
-
Highly experienced, board-certified oculoplastic surgeons with advanced training.
-
State-of-the-art medical facilities meeting international safety standards.
-
Cost-effective surgery often including comprehensive care packages.
-
High patient satisfaction and natural, subtle aesthetic results.
-
Extensive support services for international patients, easing travel and recovery.
Cost Comparison of Ptosis Correction Surgery: South Korea vs. Other Countries
| Country | Average Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| South Korea | $1,000 - $3,100 |
| USA | $3,000 - $5,000 |
| UK | $3,100+ |
| Australia | $3,800+ |
| Europe | $2,500 - $4,500 |
| Thailand | $1,500 - $2,500 |
| Turkey | $1,400 - $2,500 |
| Mexico | $3,420 |
| Poland | ~$950 |
| India | ~$740 |
Note: Costs vary by clinic, surgeon expertise, and procedure complexity.
Addressing Ptosis Related to Bell's Palsy
Bell's palsy can cause ptosis on the affected side due to facial nerve involvement in eyelid muscle control.
Specific Considerations and Challenges in Ptosis Correction for Bell's Palsy Patients
A key concern is lagophthalmos—impaired eyelid closure—which ptosis surgery might worsen by lifting the eyelid higher. This can cause eye dryness, irritation, and corneal damage. Surgeons carefully assess eyelid closure ability and corneal health using tools like slit lamp microscopes before surgery.
Eyelid synkinesis, involuntary eyelid movement during other facial expressions, may also complicate surgery. In such cases, Botox may be preferred over surgery.
Tailoring Ptosis Correction Techniques for Individuals with Facial Paralysis
A conservative approach is often best, aiming to improve eyelid position without compromising closure. For severe closure issues, surgeons may implant a small gold or platinum weight in the eyelid to help it close by gravity. Brow lifts can also address brow drooping that contributes to eyelid sagging.
Importance of Assessing Eyelid Closure and Bell's Phenomenon
Before surgery, evaluating eyelid closure and Bell's phenomenon—the reflex upward and outward eye movement when closing the eyelid—is critical. Poor Bell's phenomenon increases corneal exposure risk after surgery, so this assessment guides surgical decisions.
Potential for Combining Ptosis Correction with Other Facial Reanimation Procedures
Sometimes ptosis correction is part of a broader facial reanimation plan to restore symmetry and function. This may include brow lifts, lower eyelid repair, nasal airway correction, mouth corner reanimation, and lower lip adjustments. These decisions are personalized by experienced surgeons.
Patient Testimonials and Case Studies: Experiences of Individuals Undergoing Ptosis Correction for Bell's Palsy
Patient stories and case studies show positive outcomes from surgeries like levator aponeurosis advancement combined with orbicularis oculi muscle resection for ptosis and related conditions after Bell's palsy. These highlight the importance of choosing surgeons skilled in both oculoplastic surgery and facial paralysis complexities.
Conclusion and Key Considerations for Patients
Bell's palsy can sometimes cause ptosis that persists beyond facial paralysis. For those considering ptosis correction, especially in South Korea, understanding both conditions and surgical options is vital. South Korea offers expert surgeons, advanced facilities, and cost-effective care. Patients with Bell's palsy should seek surgeons experienced in managing ptosis with facial paralysis, ensuring thorough evaluation of eyelid closure and Bell's phenomenon to protect eye health. Combining ptosis correction with other facial reanimation procedures may provide the best functional and aesthetic results. Clear communication with your surgeon about expectations and risks is essential for success.
References
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30
