Medical Tourism Blog
Achieve Stunning Cat Eye Lift in Korea with Canthoplasty & Laser Canthoplasty Procedures
Table of contents
- Understanding the "Cat Eye Lift" Aesthetic
- Medical Procedures for Achieving the "Cat Eye Lift"
- Best Clinics in Korea for Cat Eye Lift
- The Process of Getting Canthoplasty/Laser Canthoplasty in South Korea
- Patient Experiences and Outcomes of the "Cat Eye Lift"
- 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!
The desire for aesthetic enhancement has made the "cat eye lift" a popular cosmetic procedure. This guide explains what this trendy look involves, the medical techniques used, why South Korea is a top destination for the surgery, and what patients typically experience during and after the transformation.
Understanding the "Cat Eye Lift" Aesthetic
The "cat eye lift" refers to a sought-after look where the outer corner of the eye tilts upward, creating a longer, almond-shaped eye. This style is linked to youthfulness, vitality, and an "exotic" charm, heavily influenced by social media and celebrity trends. Beyond the eyes, this lift can subtly improve overall facial balance by highlighting features like cheekbones and jawline when combined with other procedures.
This look is also called the "fox eye lift," though some say "cat eye surgery" suggests a more dramatic eye shape change. Medically, the main procedures to achieve this are "canthoplasty" and "canthopexy," with other terms like "inferior retinacular suspension" or "almond eye procedure" used less often.
Importantly, the "cat eye lift" is driven by current beauty trends rather than medical necessity. Unlike traditional blepharoplasty, which addresses aging or vision issues, this procedure responds to idealized images shaped by social media and celebrities like Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner. Patients should have realistic expectations, understanding that results may differ from digitally enhanced photos. A detailed consultation is essential to align goals with achievable outcomes.
The "cat eye lift" is better seen as a desired effect rather than a single procedure. It can be achieved through various surgeries, including canthoplasty and canthopexy, sometimes combined with blepharoplasty or brow lifts. Canthoplasty reshapes the lateral canthal tendon more extensively, while canthopexy is less invasive, reinforcing existing structures for a subtle lift. The surgical plan is tailored to each person’s anatomy and goals, making thorough surgeon discussions vital.
Medical Procedures for Achieving the "Cat Eye Lift"
The "cat eye lift" look is mainly created by surgical changes to the eye’s outer corner.
Canthoplasty: The Core Surgical Approach
Canthoplasty is a reconstructive surgery that reshapes and lifts the eye corners by tightening and repositioning muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues at the canthus—the junction of the upper and lower eyelids. While often cosmetic to create an almond or "cat eye" shape, it also treats functional issues like droopy eyelids, ectropion, entropion, lagophthalmos, corneal damage, or trauma. Results are generally permanent, though aging may require minor future adjustments.
There are two main types:
- Lateral Canthoplasty: Focuses on the outer eye corner, lifting and elongating the eye upward to achieve the "cat eye lift" look.
- Epicanthoplasty: Targets the inner eye corner near the nose to reduce the epicanthic fold common in Asian individuals, often combined with double eyelid surgery.
Performed by an oculoplastic surgeon, the procedure lasts 1–2 hours, usually outpatient. Local anesthesia with sedation is common, though general anesthesia may be used. A small incision is made near the outer eyelid corner or natural crease to minimize scarring. The lateral canthal tendon is tightened and repositioned, often attached to the lateral orbital rim to create the desired tilt. Modern techniques avoid damaging the canthal angle, preventing deformities like webbing or rounding seen in older methods. Sutures are removed about a week later.
Recovery involves blurred vision initially (due to ointment), swelling, bruising, and mild soreness for 1–2 weeks. Eyes may look uneven at first but improve with healing. Patients should avoid strenuous activity, eye rubbing, water or skincare near the incision, swimming, saunas, makeup, and contact lenses for specified periods. Keeping the head elevated and applying ice compresses helps reduce swelling. Medications like antibiotics, steroids, and artificial tears are prescribed. Light walking is encouraged, and most return to work within a week. Scars fade over 2–3 months.
Canthoplasty benefits include a lifted, youthful, almond-shaped eye with a lasting effect often exceeding ten years. It corrects droopy eyelids, asymmetry, and tired expressions, boosting self-esteem and confidence.
Laser Canthoplasty: A Modern Approach
Laser canthoplasty uses advanced laser technology to reshape the eye corners with high precision. Popular in South Korea, it offers minimal bleeding, reduced inflammation, and less tissue damage compared to traditional scalpels, leading to faster recovery and minimal scarring.
Ideal candidates include those wanting subtle but noticeable changes, improved symmetry, larger almond-shaped eyes without extensive surgery, or older patients with drooping outer eyelids seeking a less invasive option.
The procedure mirrors traditional canthoplasty but uses lasers for precise incisions and tissue cauterization, allowing careful adjustment of the eye corner angle without extensive tissue removal.
Related and Complementary Procedures
The "cat eye lift" often involves multiple procedures tailored to patient needs:
- Canthopexy: Less invasive than canthoplasty, it tightens the lower eyelid by reinforcing the lateral canthal tendon with sutures without cutting or repositioning. It corrects mild sagging or scleral show but offers less dramatic shape change.
- Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery): Removes excess skin or fat from eyelids and tightens muscles, often combined with canthoplasty for full rejuvenation.
- Brow Lift (Forehead Lift): Elevates brows to smooth forehead lines and crow’s feet, complementing the cat eye look.
- Thread Lift: A minimally invasive option using dissolvable sutures to lift tissues temporarily, with quicker recovery but less lasting and precise results. Risks include thread migration, infection, and asymmetry.
Combining procedures can create harmonious facial rejuvenation with a single recovery period. Modern surgical advances focus on preserving anatomy and minimizing scarring, emphasizing subtle millimeter changes that produce natural, stunning results. Achieving a balanced cat eye look requires considering the entire upper face, making a skilled surgeon’s artistic eye and anatomical knowledge crucial.
Best Clinics in Korea for Cat Eye Lift
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for cat eye lift:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| THEPLUS Plastic Surgery | Leader in advanced cosmetic procedures, renowned for Cat Eye Lift, 4-level patient-centered facility, led by award-winning and internationally recognized surgeons (Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, Dr. Lee), commitment to clear communication and tailored care, active in global medical research and education | Facial contouring, 3D implant techniques, functional-aesthetic blending, individualized Cat Eye Lift approaches, innovative and research-driven methods |
| Made Young Plastic Surgery | Premier Cat Eye Lift provider, patient-centered care, led by Dr. Park Byung-Chan (15+ years eye surgery experience), elite team, all consultations by doctors, full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, award-winning, top focus on safety and natural results | Meticulous customization (incision lines, eyelid height, thickness, facial harmony), real-time monitoring, advanced aftercare for optimal recovery |
| Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic | Major destination for Cat Eye Lift, renowned female plastic surgeon, comprehensive personalized consultation, board-certified experienced team, focus on patient safety, comfort, satisfaction, inclusive support throughout the journey | Customized, patient-centered Cat Eye Lift procedures, state-of-the-art technology, extensive expertise in eye plastic surgery, emphasis on natural results and transformative outcomes |
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery
Located in the vibrant district of Garosu-gil, Gangnam, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic is renowned as a leader in advanced cosmetic procedures, including the increasingly sought-after Cat Eye Lift. The clinic boasts a distinguished medical team led by Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, and Dr. Lee, all board-certified specialists with exemplary credentials and extensive experience. Dr. Kim, acclaimed for his expertise in facial contouring and award-winning research on 3D implants, combines technical precision with an artistic eye for harmonious facial balance. Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, is internationally recognized for his approach to blending functional improvement with aesthetic enhancement. Completing the team, Dr. Lee brings her wealth of surgical experience and commitment to natural, long-lasting results.
THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic offers a comprehensive patient experience, with facilities spread over four levels to ensure comfort, safety, and privacy. As active contributors to global medical research and frequent educators at professional forums, THE PLUS surgeons are valued for both innovation and a dedication to the highest standards of care. Their philosophy centers on clear communication and patient satisfaction, tailoring each procedure—including Cat Eye Lift—to individual needs for natural-looking, beautiful outcomes. With their exceptional credentials, state-of-the-art techniques, and strong commitment to ongoing education, THE PLUS stands as a premier destination for transformative aesthetic surgery in Korea.
You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website
Made Young Plastic Surgery
Made Young Plastic Surgery stands out as the premier clinic for Cat Eye Lift in Korea, combining cutting-edge techniques with a truly patient-centered approach. Led by Dr. Park Byung-Chan, who brings over 15 years of exclusive experience in eye surgery, the clinic is renowned for delivering natural, beautiful eye results that are apparent even on the day of surgery. Dr. Park meticulously customizes each procedure, taking into account individual incision lines, double eyelid height, eyelid thickness, and overall facial harmony, ensuring that every result complements the patient’s natural beauty. The clinic's elite medical team, all with an average of over 15 years of clinical experience, personally handles every consultation and diagnosis, giving patients confidence in their expertise and dedication. Safety is paramount at Made Young, with full-time board-certified anesthesiologists, a dedicated one-on-one monitoring system, and comprehensive aftercare designed for the safest and most comfortable recovery. Officially recognized and awarded multiple times, including Korea’s No.1 Award and Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place, Made Young Plastic Surgery in Gangnam is the trusted choice for anyone seeking a Cat Eye Lift that prioritizes natural results, safety, and individualized care.
You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as one of Korea’s premier destinations for Cat Eye Lift procedures, offering a unique blend of artistry, expertise, and patient-centered care. Situated at the forefront of medical innovation, the clinic believes that aesthetic care is a journey of transformation, not just a simple procedure. Each patient receives meticulous attention, with customized treatment plans crafted by a team of highly skilled professionals led by a renowned female plastic surgeon. Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic’s unwavering commitment to sincerity, precision, and individualized care ensures that every Cat Eye Lift is performed with the highest standards of safety, skill, and aesthetic excellence.
Why Choose Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic for Your Cat Eye Lift?
- Comprehensive consultation process ensures a personalized approach for every patient.
- All procedures are performed by a highly experienced, board-certified team, including a distinguished female plastic surgeon.
- State-of-the-art technology and surgical techniques for optimal, natural-looking results.
- Extensive expertise in eye plastic surgery, with successful outcomes in a wide range of eye-enhancing procedures.
- Emphasis on patient safety, comfort, and long-term satisfaction throughout the entire transformation journey.
- Inclusive support, from pre-operative counseling to thorough post-surgical care and recovery guidance.
- Reputation for empathetic care, transparency, and transformative outcomes, making it a trusted choice for local and international clients seeking the best in Cat Eye Lift surgery in Korea.
You can check out their website here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website
The Process of Getting Canthoplasty/Laser Canthoplasty in South Korea
South Korea is a leading destination for cosmetic surgery, especially the "cat eye lift," due to several advantages.
Why South Korea?
South Korea has the highest density of plastic surgery clinics and specialists worldwide, attracting over 450,000 medical tourists annually, with cosmetic procedures making up 38% of treatments.
The country is known for advanced techniques and technology, including sophisticated laser systems and precise, minimal-scar surgeries. Korean surgeons excel in bone-related facial contouring and skin-tightening procedures.
Strict safety standards often exceed international benchmarks, resulting in high success rates and fewer revision surgeries.
Cost-effectiveness is significant, with procedures costing 30–60% less than in the US or Europe. For example, eyelid surgery averages $1,500–$4,000 in Korea versus $6,000–$15,000 in the US.
Korean clinics offer comprehensive patient support, including all-inclusive packages covering consultations, tests, surgery, transfers, accommodation, and follow-ups. Translation services and dedicated coordinators assist patients throughout the process, with virtual follow-ups common.
The global influence of K-pop and K-drama has boosted demand, making South Korea a high-quality, affordable, and patient-friendly destination for aesthetic surgery.
Step-by-Step Process for International Patients
- Initial Consultation & Planning: Often starts online or via medical tourism agencies. Surgeons assess eye shape and function, discuss goals, and plan surgery tailored to individual anatomy. Risks and expectations are reviewed.
- Pre-Operative Preparation: Patients receive instructions on medications, lifestyle changes (e.g., stopping blood thinners, avoiding smoking/alcohol), and arranging post-surgery support. Glasses are recommended over contacts before surgery.
- Surgery Day: Anesthesia is administered (usually local with sedation). The procedure lasts 1–2 hours, followed by protective eye shields.
- Post-Operative Care & Recovery:
- Immediate blurred vision and mild soreness are common.
- Swelling and bruising subside within a week; stitches removed around day 7.
- Patients apply prescribed medications, keep head elevated, and use ice compresses.
- Avoid rubbing eyes, strenuous activity, water near incision, swimming, saunas, makeup, and contacts for specified times.
- Return to work/school usually within a week; full results take weeks to months.
- Follow-ups, often virtual, are arranged to monitor healing.
Patient Experiences and Outcomes of the "Cat Eye Lift"
Addressing Patient Concerns and Desired Outcomes
Many patients seek the "cat eye lift" to reverse a tired or sad look caused by downturned or sagging eye corners. The goal is a youthful, vibrant, and refreshed eye appearance that makeup alone cannot achieve permanently.
The procedure also corrects asymmetry and enhances facial harmony, contributing to a balanced profile.
Beyond physical changes, patients often report a significant boost in confidence and self-esteem, positively affecting social and professional life. This highlights the holistic benefits of cosmetic surgery.
Reported Success Rates and Satisfaction
Satisfaction rates are high, with studies showing about 91% of patients pleased with results and surgeons reporting 86% success in achieving goals. Results look natural and refreshed rather than artificial, with many patients happy years after surgery.
Potential Complications and Considerations
Common temporary side effects include swelling, bruising, soreness, blurred vision, dry eyes, and tearing, resolving within weeks.
Rare but possible complications include:
- Visible scars (usually minimal and fading)
- Asymmetry between eyes
- Eyelid malposition (ectropion, entropion, lid lag, scleral show)
- Infection
- Persistent pain
- Overcorrection or undercorrection requiring revision
- Temporary or, very rarely, permanent vision changes
- Other rare issues like bleeding, skin puckering, thread visibility (with thread lifts), conjunctival swelling, tear duct problems, or facial nerve palsy
Patients should contact their doctor immediately if they notice worsening swelling, severe pain, poor healing, fever, or pus.
High satisfaction depends on realistic expectations, careful surgeon choice, and strict post-op care. The procedure’s delicate nature means selecting an experienced surgeon is critical for natural, lasting results.
Conclusion
The "cat eye lift" is a trendy aesthetic that creates an upward slant at the eye’s outer corner for a youthful, elongated look. Achieved mainly through canthoplasty or laser canthoplasty, often combined with other facial procedures, it offers lasting, natural results. South Korea is a top destination due to its advanced techniques, high safety standards, cost advantages, and comprehensive patient support. Patients report enhanced confidence and satisfaction, but success depends on realistic expectations, thorough consultations, and choosing a skilled surgeon to ensure safe, harmonious outcomes.
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
