Medical Tourism Blog
Effective Blepharospasm Relief in Korea: Blepharoplasty Solutions for Eye Twitching
Table of contents
- Understanding Blepharospasm: A Comprehensive Overview
- Blepharoplasty: A Detailed Medical Procedure
- Best Clinics in Korea for Blepharospasm
- Navigating Blepharoplasty in South Korea: A Medical Tourist's Guide
- Cost Analysis: Blepharoplasty in South Korea vs. Global Comparisons
- Blepharoplasty (Myectomy) for Blepharospasm: Patient Outcomes and Considerations
- Conclusion
- 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!
This guide is designed for individuals seeking treatment options for blepharospasm, a condition marked by involuntary eyelid muscle contractions. It explains what blepharospasm is, how it differs from common eye twitching, and focuses on myectomy—a specialized eyelid surgery used to relieve severe blepharospasm symptoms. While blepharoplasty generally refers to eyelid surgery for cosmetic reasons, myectomy targets functional improvement by addressing muscle spasms.
The report also covers the experience of undergoing myectomy as a medical tourist in South Korea, a top destination known for its cutting-edge medical technology, expert surgeons, and competitive pricing often bundled into all-inclusive packages. A cost comparison highlights South Korea’s financial advantages over Western countries and other medical tourism hubs. Finally, it reviews patient outcomes, showing myectomy’s effectiveness as a lasting solution, especially when first-line treatments fall short.
Understanding Blepharospasm: A Comprehensive Overview
Blepharospasm is a neurological movement disorder that causes uncontrollable spasms of the eyelid muscles, significantly impacting daily life. It is distinct from the common, temporary eye twitch many people experience.
Definition, Characteristics, and Causes
Blepharospasm is a form of dystonia affecting the muscles around the eyes, causing involuntary contractions. Unlike myokymia—brief, benign eyelid twitching triggered by fatigue, stress, or caffeine—benign essential blepharospasm (BEB) usually starts with increased blinking in both eyes and can progress to forceful eyelid closure, disrupting normal activities.
BEB typically begins in middle to late adulthood and worsens over time. Although its exact cause is unknown, it is believed to involve dysfunction in the basal ganglia, a part of the nervous system.
Common Pseudonyms and Related Conditions
“Eye twitching” is a broad term covering several conditions. Myokymia is the most common and harmless form. Hemifacial spasm causes involuntary contractions on one side of the face, often due to nerve compression. When blepharospasm extends to other facial muscles like the tongue and jaw, it is called Meige syndrome. Other eye issues like blepharitis, dry eyes, or light sensitivity can also cause twitching. Sometimes, medications for Parkinson’s or serious neurological disorders like Bell’s palsy or multiple sclerosis may cause eyelid spasms.
Symptoms, Progression, and Impact on Daily Life
Early symptoms of BEB include frequent blinking, dry eyes, and irritation worsened by wind, pollution, or sunlight (photo-oculodynia). Initially, one eye may be affected, but both usually become involved.
As BEB progresses, spasms intensify, making it hard to keep eyes open and sometimes causing functional blindness when eyelids stay shut for hours. These spasms occur during waking hours and stop during sleep. The condition severely limits activities like reading, watching TV, working, and socializing, often causing frustration and embarrassment. It affects middle-aged and older women more frequently. Early medical intervention is crucial to reduce symptom severity and improve quality of life.
Blepharoplasty: A Detailed Medical Procedure
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, addresses both cosmetic and functional eyelid concerns.
General Purpose and Types of Eyelid Surgery
Primarily, blepharoplasty improves eyelid appearance by removing or repositioning excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle to reduce sagging, wrinkles, and puffiness. It can also restore peripheral vision when drooping eyelids obstruct sight. Procedures may target upper, lower, or both eyelids and can be combined with other facial surgeries like facelifts or brow lifts. A specific type, double eyelid surgery (Asian blepharoplasty), creates a crease in the upper eyelid.
It’s important to note that cosmetic blepharoplasty differs from surgery for blepharospasm. Cosmetic procedures focus on appearance, while myectomy targets muscle spasms to improve function. Patients with blepharospasm should seek surgeons experienced in functional eyelid surgery rather than purely cosmetic procedures.
The Surgical Process: Anesthesia, Incision Techniques, and Closure
Blepharoplasty is usually outpatient, lasting 45 minutes to three hours depending on complexity. Anesthesia options include intravenous sedation, local anesthesia with sedation, or general anesthesia, chosen based on procedure scope and patient preference.
Upper eyelid incisions are made within the natural crease to remove fat, tighten muscles, and excise excess skin, hiding scars in the fold. Lower eyelid surgery uses either an incision below the lash line to remove skin and fat or a transconjunctival incision inside the eyelid to remove fat without skin excision. Incisions are closed with fine sutures or skin glue, with sutures removed within a week. Laser resurfacing or chemical peels may be added to improve skin discoloration.
Expected Results, Recovery, and General Risks
Results appear gradually as swelling and bruising fade, revealing smoother, more defined eyelids and improved vision if sagging skin was obstructing sight. Benefits can be long-lasting or permanent.
Swelling and bruising usually resolve in one to two weeks, but full healing may take months. Early recovery may include tearing, light sensitivity, and temporary blurred or double vision. Patients should rest, protect eyes from sun and wind, and avoid strenuous activities for up to four weeks.
Risks include infection, bleeding, anesthesia reactions, and rare complications like vision loss or eyelid drooping. Scars are generally well-hidden but may be slightly visible. Laser treatments carry pigment change risks, especially for darker skin tones.
For blepharospasm patients, choosing surgeons specialized in oculoplastic or neuro-ophthalmology with myectomy experience is vital. Functional eyelid surgery requires detailed anatomical knowledge and tailored techniques to address muscle spasms effectively.
Best Clinics in Korea for Blepharospasm
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for blepharospasm:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website | Located in the Garosu-gil area of Gangnam; four purpose-built floors offering a patient-centered setting from meticulous consultation to procedure and post-treatment care; eye surgery and dermatology services provide precise botulinum toxin injections and tailored eyelid procedures (ptosis correction and blepharoplasty when appropriate); safety and natural-looking outcomes are emphasized; surgeons are active researchers and educators who present at domestic and international symposiums, contribute to scholarly journals and textbooks, and maintain memberships in leading professional societies, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. | Botulinum toxin injections; eyelid procedures (ptosis correction; blepharoplasty when appropriate) |
| Made Young Plastic Surgery Website | Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in Seoul’s Gangnam district, is a premium center for facial and anti-aging procedures defined by genuine dedication, deep expertise, and a safety-first philosophy; led by Dr. Park Byung-Chan—who has spent 15 years focused exclusively on eye surgery—the clinic is renowned for delivering natural, beautiful eye results even on the day of surgery and for a patient-centered approach from consultation to the operating room; with meticulous customization of incision lines, double eyelid height, eyelid thickness, and overall eye image, Made Young provides the nuance and precision essential for complex eyelid conditions such as blepharospasm, all within a system built for transparency, safety, and comprehensive aftercare. | Eye-focused expertise (15 years in eye surgery); natural results day-of; meticulous customization of incision lines, double eyelid height, eyelid thickness, and overall eye image; direct consultations; 1:1 dedicated monitoring by anesthesiologist; full-time board-certified anesthesiologists; CCTV transparency; dedicated aftercare center; safety-focused, patient-centered care |
| SH Clinic Website | SH Clinic in Sinsa, Seoul is a multi-specialty medical center that brings stem-cell science, women’s healthcare, aesthetic dermatology, and modern plastic surgery together under one roof; led by its specialized SH Stem Cell Center and SH Gynecology Clinic, the institution delivers personalized, comprehensive treatment plans—from facial rejuvenation and anti-aging options to advanced stem cell therapies for serious conditions, as well as a full spectrum of women’s health services and vaginal rejuvenation procedures; for eyelid spasm conditions such as blepharospasm, SH Clinic offers a precise, physician-led environment grounded in expertise with botulinum toxin injections and eyelid procedures, including upper and lower blepharoplasty. | Botulinum toxin injections and eyelid procedures (including upper and lower blepharoplasty) for blepharospasm; periocular anatomy knowledge and injectable skill; careful evaluation, individualized care planning; minimally invasive treatment or coordinated referral when appropriate; safety, discretion, and evidence-based practice |
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery
Located in the vibrant Garosu-gil area of Gangnam, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery offers a comprehensive, patient-centered setting across four purpose-built floors—from meticulous consultation to procedure and post-treatment care. For individuals seeking care for blepharospasm, the clinic’s eye surgery and dermatology services provide precise botulinum toxin injections and tailored eyelid procedures, such as ptosis correction and blepharoplasty when appropriate, with safety and natural-looking outcomes at the forefront. THE PLUS surgeons are active researchers and educators who present at domestic and international symposiums, contribute to scholarly journals and textbooks, and maintain memberships in leading professional societies, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons—assuring care that reflects the latest standards in both function and aesthetics.
The clinic is led by renowned director surgeons Dr. Jeong Jae Yong and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, widely recognized in Korea and abroad for their expertise, ongoing academic contributions, and commitment to elevating industry standards through regular educational sessions and webinars. Dr. Kim, a board-certified plastic surgeon awarded for research on 3D implants, is a leading expert in rhinoplasty and facial contouring who emphasizes harmonious balance to enhance each patient’s natural features. Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, champions the integration of function and beauty in every case. Rounding out the team, Dr. Lee is a board-certified breast specialist with extensive experience at top national hospitals, including Seoul National University Hospital. Together, they deliver measured, personalized solutions aimed at restoring comfort, confidence, and natural expression for patients with eyelid concerns, including blepharospasm.
You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website
Made Young Plastic Surgery
Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in Seoul’s Gangnam district, is a premium center for facial and anti-aging procedures defined by genuine dedication, deep expertise, and a safety-first philosophy. Led by Dr. Park Byung-Chan—who has spent 15 years focused exclusively on eye surgery—the clinic is renowned for delivering natural, beautiful eye results even on the day of surgery and for a patient-centered approach that carries through from consultation to the operating room. With meticulous customization of incision lines, double eyelid height, eyelid thickness, and overall eye image, Made Young provides the nuance and precision essential for complex eyelid conditions such as blepharospasm, all within a system built for transparency, safety, and comprehensive aftercare.
• Eye-only expertise for complex eyelid conditions: Dr. Park Byung-Chan brings 15 years of experience dedicated exclusively to eye surgery.
• Natural results, even day-of: Recognized for beautiful, natural-looking eyes immediately post-procedure, minimizing social downtime.
• Meticulous customization: Incision lines, double eyelid height, eyelid thickness, and overall eye image are tailored to each patient for the most natural outcome—critical for blepharospasm care.
• Genuine, patient-centered care: A sincere approach from first consultation through surgery ensures goals and expectations are aligned.
• Verified medical team: Only highly skilled doctors with an average of over 15 years of experience; proven skills backed by extensive clinical practice.
• Direct consultations: The medical team provides direct consultation and diagnosis before any procedure for clarity and confidence.
• Full-time board-certified anesthesiologists: Safety is reinforced by specialists on site at all times.
• 1:1 dedicated monitoring: One anesthesiologist continuously monitors one patient for precise, individualized care.
• Cross-check safety protocol: Multiple anesthesiologists collaborate in emergencies for rapid, accurate response.
• Full CCTV transparency: Complete procedure coverage enhances trust and oversight.
• Dedicated aftercare center: A separate, specialized unit delivers complete and systematic post-procedure care.
• Award-winning excellence: 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place; recognized by the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and certified by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society.
• Premium environment in Gangnam: A refined setting specializing in facial and anti-aging procedures, supporting comfort and optimal outcomes.
• Why it’s best for blepharospasm: Eye-focused mastery, ultra-detailed eyelid planning, rigorous safety systems, and thorough follow-up combine to support optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes for patients with blepharospasm.
You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website
SH Clinic
SH Clinic in Sinsa, Seoul is a multi-specialty medical center that brings stem-cell science, women’s healthcare, aesthetic dermatology, and modern plastic surgery together under one roof. Led by its specialized SH Stem Cell Center and SH Gynecology Clinic, the institution delivers personalized, comprehensive treatment plans—from facial rejuvenation and anti-aging options to advanced stem cell therapies for serious conditions, as well as a full spectrum of women’s health services and vaginal rejuvenation procedures.
For patients researching solutions for eyelid spasm conditions such as blepharospasm, SH Clinic offers a precise, physician-led environment grounded in expertise with botulinum toxin injections and eyelid procedures, including upper and lower blepharoplasty. This combination of periocular anatomy knowledge and injectable skill supports careful evaluation, individualized care planning, and, when appropriate, minimally invasive treatment or coordinated referral to relevant specialists—delivered with an emphasis on safety, discretion, and evidence-based practice.
You can check out their website here: SH Clinic Website
Navigating Blepharoplasty in South Korea: A Medical Tourist's Guide
South Korea is a leading destination for cosmetic surgery, attracting international patients with its advanced technology, skilled surgeons, and competitive pricing.
Why South Korea? Advantages for Medical Tourists
South Korea is renowned for innovative cosmetic procedures and excellent results. Costs are typically 40% to 75% lower than in the US or UK. Many clinics offer all-inclusive packages covering consultations, tests, surgery, hospital stay, medications, follow-ups, and translator services. Some packages also include transfers and accommodation, reducing financial surprises and simplifying planning.
Despite lower costs, South Korea maintains high medical standards with well-equipped hospitals and experienced professionals.
The Process: From Initial Consultation to Post-Operative Care
Finding a Reputable Clinic and Initial Consultation: Research is key. Look for clinics accredited by international bodies like the International Joint Commission and seek references from past international patients. Many clinics offer video consultations to discuss expectations and medical history. In-person exams assess eyelid anatomy and health. Surgeons review medications and advise on adjustments to reduce bleeding risk. Medical tourism agencies like Shin Medical can help with clinic selection, scheduling, and translation.
Pre-Surgery Preparation and Logistics: Follow surgeon instructions carefully, including avoiding certain medications and lifestyle changes like quitting smoking. Anti-inflammatory foods and supplements may aid healing. Arrange transportation and support for recovery, ideally with a companion. Mental health evaluation is recommended due to potential emotional impacts.
The Surgical Experience: Surgery takes one to three hours in outpatient facilities. Anesthesia options ensure comfort. Incisions follow natural eyelid lines to remove or reposition tissue.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery Period: Clinics provide detailed care instructions. Swelling and bruising usually subside within two weeks, with full recovery taking one to two weeks or longer. Patients should rest, keep their head elevated, and use cold compresses. Staying in South Korea for at least eight days post-surgery is advised, with longer stays beneficial for follow-up care. Watch for complications and consult the surgeon if needed.
Essential Tips for International Patients
- Language Barriers: Ensure clinics have dedicated international patient managers and interpreters for clear communication, especially during follow-up.
- Choosing the Right Clinic: Verify accreditation and seek patient references. Virtual consultations and AI simulations can help set expectations.
- Understanding "Korean Beauty Standard": Discuss desired outcomes thoroughly to align with the surgeon’s aesthetic approach, especially for non-East Asian patients.
- Awareness of Complications and Scarring: Inquire about revision policies and scar treatments.
- Recovery Locations: Stay near Seoul clinics in calm environments to aid healing. Many clinics offer nearby accommodations.
- Timing Your Surgery: Avoid South Korean holidays when clinics are busy. Early spring or fall offers better weather and less crowded clinics.
- Post-Surgery Travel: Plan an extended stay for proper recovery and follow-up.
Cost Analysis: Blepharoplasty in South Korea vs. Global Comparisons
Cost is a major factor for patients considering surgery abroad. South Korea offers attractive pricing for eyelid surgery.
Average Costs of Blepharoplasty in South Korea
Blepharoplasty costs range from $1,500 to $4,000, with some sources citing $2,500 to $6,700. Transconjunctival lower blepharoplasty (eyebag removal) typically costs $1,000 to $3,000. Prices vary by surgeon expertise, clinic location, surgical technique, and case complexity.
Cost Comparison with Western Countries and Other Medical Tourism Destinations
South Korea’s prices are 40% to 75% lower than in the US or UK, making it a cost-effective choice.
| Country | Cost Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| South Korea | $1,500 - $6,700 |
| United States of America | $4,600 - $15,000 |
| United Kingdom | $4,900 - $12,000 |
| Turkey | $1,283 - $6,500 |
| Czech Republic | $2,800 - $8,000 |
| Poland | $3,300 - $7,500 |
| Mexico | $3,750 - $6,600 |
| Italy | $5,200 - $9,600 |
Turkey also offers competitive pricing, about 60% cheaper than Western countries, making it another strong option. Patients should research multiple destinations, comparing costs, package inclusions, post-op support, and surgeon specialization.
What's Typically Included in Medical Tourism Packages
South Korea and Turkey provide comprehensive packages that cover surgery, anesthesia, hospital stay, pre- and post-op care, medications, accommodation, transportation, and interpreter services. This bundled pricing offers transparency and convenience beyond just low base costs.
Blepharoplasty (Myectomy) for Blepharospasm: Patient Outcomes and Considerations
For severe blepharospasm, myectomy surgery offers a path to lasting relief and improved quality of life.
Role of Surgical Intervention (Myectomy) in Blepharospasm Treatment
Botulinum toxin type A injections are the first-line treatment due to their safety and effectiveness. However, myectomy is essential for severe, treatment-resistant cases. It involves removing muscles responsible for eyelid closure, mainly the orbicularis oculi.
Two main myectomy types exist: Limited Myectomy (targeting parts of the orbicularis oculi) and Extended Myectomy (also removing procerus and corrugator muscles). Anderson's method is widely used, involving upper eyelid incisions, removal of most orbicularis oculi muscle, shortening of the levator palpebral tendon, and transection of forehead muscles. Surgery is staged, starting with upper eyelids; lower eyelids follow if needed. Simultaneous upper and lower eyelid surgery is avoided to reduce lymphedema risk.
Effectiveness and Long-Term Outcomes of Myectomy
Anderson's method is considered an extremely successful permanent solution, with 80% to 90% success rates. A case study of a 75-year-old woman showed complete symptom resolution and normal eye function 21 months post-surgery.
Myectomy also corrects anatomical changes caused by long-term blepharospasm, offering better aesthetic results than older methods. Long-term studies confirm safety and effectiveness, with most patients achieving near-complete relief, enabling return to normal social and daily activities.
Unlike Botox, which requires repeated injections every few months, myectomy offers a permanent fix, making it attractive for patients seeking lasting relief.
Potential Side Effects and Complications Specific to Myectomy
Modern myectomy techniques minimize risks, but possible complications include chronic lymphedema (especially with simultaneous upper and lower eyelid surgery), ptosis, blurred or double vision, lagophthalmos, ectropion, mouth sagging, brow droop, and excessive tearing. Older methods had higher complication rates, but current techniques like Anderson’s method have improved safety and aesthetics. Patients should be reassured by these advancements.
Comparison with First-Line Treatments (e.g., Botulinum Toxin Injections)
Botox injections temporarily paralyze muscles to reduce spasms, with effects lasting 3-6 months. The procedure is quick and generally safe but requires ongoing treatments. Side effects are usually mild and temporary.
Pharmacotherapy offers limited relief. Myectomy is reserved for severe cases unresponsive to Botox or for patients desiring a permanent solution. Combining medical and surgical treatments often yields the best results, with neurologists managing medications and oculoplastic surgeons performing surgery.
Patient Experiences and Functional Improvement
Blepharospasm severely disrupts daily life and social interactions. Treatments aim to reduce spasm frequency and severity, restoring eyelid control. Patients report improved light sensitivity, reduced blinking, and regained function. The 75-year-old case study highlights the potential for complete symptom resolution and normal eye opening after myectomy.
Conclusion
Blepharospasm is a challenging neurological disorder causing involuntary eyelid spasms. Myectomy, a specialized eyelid surgery distinct from cosmetic blepharoplasty, offers a functional solution by targeting these muscle contractions. South Korea stands out as a top medical tourism destination for myectomy, combining advanced care, skilled surgeons, and cost-effective, all-inclusive packages.
Modern myectomy techniques like Anderson’s method provide high success rates and improved safety, making surgery a compelling option for patients unresponsive to Botox. Careful clinic selection, thorough preparation, and realistic expectations are essential for optimal outcomes and recovery.
References
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20
