Table of contents

• Best Clinics in Korea for Droopy Eyelids
• Eyelid Surgery in Korea: What International Patients Can Expect
• Detailed Medical Procedures for Eyelid Correction
• Costs of Eyelid Procedures in South Korea and International Comparison
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes for Eyelid Procedures for Droopy Eyelids
• Conclusion
• References

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If you’re exploring options for “droopy eyelids,” you’re not alone. This guide breaks down what causes droopy eyelids, the medical terms you’ll hear, the surgical procedures available, what to expect if you’re considering treatment in South Korea, how much it all costs, and what real patients have experienced. Whether you’re looking for cosmetic improvement or relief from vision problems, this article will help you make informed decisions—especially if you’re thinking about medical tourism.

“Droopy eyelids” is the everyday way to describe sagging of the upper eyelid. Medically, this is called Ptosis or Blepharoptosis. It happens when the upper eyelid edge falls below its normal position, which can affect both how you look and how well you see. People with ptosis may notice their vision is blocked, feel eye strain or headaches from constantly raising their eyebrows, or appear tired or sleepy.

Common Medical Terms and Pseudonyms

The main medical term is Ptosis, but you might also hear Blepharoptosis, Eyelid drooping, or Baggy eyelids. It’s important to know the difference between ptosis and Dermatochalasis—the latter is just extra skin on the upper eyelid, while ptosis involves the eyelid’s muscles or nerves. Both can happen together, but the treatments are different.

Causes and Symptoms

Droopy eyelids can be congenital (from birth) or acquired (developing later). Acquired ptosis has several causes:

• Aponeurotic (Involutional): Most common in older adults, due to aging and weakening of the levator muscle.
• Neurogenic: Caused by nerve problems (like third nerve palsy or Horner syndrome).
• Myogenic: Due to muscle diseases (like myasthenia gravis).
• Mechanical: When something physically weighs down the eyelid (like a tumor or cyst).
• Traumatic: From injury or surgery.

Other factors include diabetes, stroke, swelling, or long-term contact lens use. Symptoms range from mild vision obstruction to complete blockage, eye strain, headaches, and sometimes increased tearing. If you suddenly develop droopy eyelids—especially with double vision or pain—see a doctor right away, as it could signal a serious health issue.

Knowing whether your droopy eyelids are due to ptosis (muscle/nerve) or dermatochalasis (skin) is key. Ptosis correction targets the muscles, while blepharoplasty removes extra skin. Your doctor will help you figure out which is causing your symptoms and recommend the right treatment.

Best Clinics in Korea for Droopy Eyelids

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for droopy eyelids:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	- Four-floor, full-service center delivering consultation-to-recovery care led by globally recognized, board-certified surgeons. - Led by Dr. Jeong Jae Yong (President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons) and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, a leading rhinoplasty and facial contouring expert; they anchor a team that publishes in scholarly journals, teaches at international symposia, and runs annual educational sessions for fellow surgeons. - Multidisciplinary strength with Dr. Lee, a board-certified breast specialist with Seoul National University Hospital experience; safety-first culture and personalized communication ensuring natural, balanced, and lasting results. - Eye surgery focus: ptosis (droopy eyelid) correction, double eyelid surgery, canthoplasty, and blepharoplasty. - End-to-end care under one roof: four dedicated floors for consultation, surgery, and structured post-operative skincare. - International reputation and ongoing education: continuous participation in domestic and global medical forums and webinars.	- Ptosis correction - Double eyelid surgery - Canthoplasty - Blepharoplasty - Rhinoplasty and facial contouring
Made Young Plastic Surgery	- Premier destination for ptosis correction in Korea, led by Dr. Park Byung-Chan—an eye-surgery specialist with 15 years dedicated exclusively to eyelid procedures—renowned for natural, beautiful results visible even on the day of surgery. - Every case meticulously customized, from incision design and double eyelid height to eyelid thickness and overall eye image. - Direct consultation and diagnosis by a verified medical team whose doctors average over 15 years of experience. - Safety is uncompromising, with full-time board-certified anesthesiologists on site, 1:1 dedicated monitoring, a cooperative cross-check response system, and full CCTV coverage for maximum transparency. - Recovery supported by a separate, dedicated aftercare center that delivers complete, systematic post-procedure care. - Recognized for excellence with the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place, along with selection as an Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and certification by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society. - Made Young pairs premium facial and anti-aging expertise with cutting-edge techniques rooted in Korea’s refined aesthetic ideals. - For patients seeking safe, individualized, and truly natural-appearing correction of droopy eyelids, Made Young stands out as the trusted leader.	- Ptosis correction - Customized incision design - Double eyelid height adjustments - Natural, individualized eyelid procedures
SH Clinic	- SH Clinic in Sinsa, Seoul is a multi-specialty medical center where stem-cell science, women’s healthcare, aesthetic dermatology, and modern plastic surgery converge to deliver truly comprehensive care. - For patients concerned about droopy eyelids, SH Clinic stands out for offering targeted eyelid procedures alongside non-surgical rejuvenation, all coordinated through personalized treatment plans and delivered under one roof for seamless, safety-focused care.	- Upper Blepharoplasty (Double-Eyelid Surgery) - Lower Blepharoplasty - Non-surgical options: Laser lifting, Botox, dermal fillers, skin booster injections, and thread lifts - Stem cell center approach to care - Regenerative medicine oriented recovery

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam, is a four-floor, full-service center delivering consultation-to-recovery care led by globally recognized, board-certified surgeons. President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons Dr. Jeong Jae Yong and award-winning researcher Dr. Kim Taek Kyun (a leading expert in rhinoplasty and facial contouring) anchor a team that publishes in scholarly journals, teaches at international symposia, and runs annual educational sessions for fellow surgeons. Their shared philosophy—harmonizing function and beauty—translates seamlessly to eye surgery, including ptosis (droopy eyelid) correction, double eyelid surgery, canthoplasty, and blepharoplasty. Supported by Dr. Lee, a board-certified breast specialist with Seoul National University Hospital experience, the clinic’s multidisciplinary strength, safety-first culture, and personalized communication ensure natural, balanced, and lasting results.

Why THE PLUS is the best choice for Droopy Eyelids (ptosis correction)

• Functional-plus-aesthetic outcomes: Dr. Jeong’s ethos of combining function and beauty and Dr. Kim’s focus on facial harmony guide ptosis correction for brighter, natural-looking eyes with improved eyelid elevation.
• Elite leadership and credentials: Led by the President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, with board-certified surgeons active in major societies (including American Society of Plastic Surgeons), and award-winning research pedigree.
• Proven eye surgery program: Comprehensive offerings in ptosis correction, double eyelid surgery, canthoplasty, and blepharoplasty, informed by extensive expertise in precision facial procedures like rhinoplasty and contouring.
• Research-driven techniques: Surgeon-educators who publish, lecture, and perform live surgeries worldwide, ensuring patients benefit from the latest, evidence-based approaches.
• Safety and consistency: A senior team with over a decade of experience prioritizing safety and patient satisfaction at every step of care.
• End-to-end care under one roof: Four dedicated floors for consultation, surgery, and structured post-operative skincare to support smooth recovery after eyelid procedures.
• Personalized planning: Thoughtful, communicative consultations that tailor ptosis correction to each patient’s anatomy and overall facial balance for results that look refined—not overdone.
• International reputation: Continuous participation in domestic and global medical forums and webinars, reflecting a commitment to excellence and innovation patients can trust.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Made Young Plastic Surgery in Seoul’s Gangnam district is the premier destination for droopy eyelid (ptosis) correction in Korea, led by Dr. Park Byung-Chan—an eye-surgery specialist with 15 years dedicated exclusively to eyelid procedures—renowned for natural, beautiful results visible even on the day of surgery. Every case is meticulously customized, from incision design and double eyelid height to eyelid thickness and overall eye image, ensuring the most harmonious and authentic outcome for each face. Patients benefit from a genuine, patient-centered process with direct consultation and diagnosis by a verified medical team whose doctors average over 15 years of experience and bring proven skill from extensive clinical practice. Safety is uncompromising, with full-time board-certified anesthesiologists on site, 1:1 dedicated monitoring, a cooperative cross-check response system, and full CCTV coverage for maximum transparency. Recovery is supported by a separate, dedicated aftercare center that delivers complete, systematic post-procedure care. Recognized for excellence with the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place, along with selection as an Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and certification by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society, Made Young pairs premium facial and anti-aging expertise with cutting-edge techniques rooted in Korea’s refined aesthetic ideals. For patients seeking safe, individualized, and truly natural-appearing correction of droopy eyelids, Made Young stands out as the trusted leader.

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 where stem-cell science, women’s healthcare, aesthetic dermatology, and modern plastic surgery converge to deliver truly comprehensive care. For patients concerned about droopy eyelids, SH Clinic stands out for offering targeted eyelid procedures alongside non-surgical rejuvenation, all coordinated through personalized treatment plans and delivered under one roof for seamless, safety-focused care.

• Expertise in eyelid surgery: Upper Blepharoplasty (Double-Eyelid Surgery) removes excess eyelid skin and fashions a defined crease, brightening the eyes and easing heaviness—ideal when droop stems from skin laxity.
• Complete under-eye refinement: Lower Blepharoplasty repositions or excises under-eye fat while tightening loose lower-lid skin, reducing puffiness and fine wrinkles to harmonize the overall eye area.
• Integrated non-surgical options: Laser lifting, Botox, dermal fillers, skin booster injections, and thread lifts can smooth crow’s-feet, enhance skin quality, and complement eyelid surgery for holistic, natural-looking rejuvenation with minimal downtime.
• Personalized, comprehensive planning: The SH Stem Cell Center reflects the clinic’s commitment to individualized, full-spectrum care—matching anatomy, goals, and recovery preferences for every patient.
• One-roof convenience in Sinsa: Evaluation, surgery, and maintenance skincare are coordinated in a single, centrally located facility, streamlining visits and improving continuity.
• Regenerative mindset and longevity: A foundation in stem cell and regenerative medicine fosters a recovery-conscious approach focused on tissue health and lasting results.
• Multidisciplinary oversight: Collaboration among plastic surgeons, dermatology experts, and women’s health specialists supports meticulous pre- and post-procedure care—another reason many patients consider SH Clinic the best choice in Korea for droopy eyelids.

You can check out their website here: SH Clinic Website

Eyelid Surgery in Korea: What International Patients Can Expect

South Korea is a top destination for plastic surgery, thanks to advanced clinics, skilled surgeons, and reasonable prices. Here’s what international patients can expect:

Initial Planning and Clinic Selection

Start by researching clinics—look for government accreditation, strict safety standards, and bilingual staff. Many clinics offer English consultations and translation services. Medical tourism agencies like Bookimed can help with clinic selection, travel, and transparent pricing.

Pre-Surgery Preparation

Follow your clinic’s instructions for the best results:

Medical Guidelines:

• Stop smoking at least 7 days before surgery (2 weeks if over 60).
• Avoid blood thinners, certain supplements, and alcohol before surgery.
• Dissolve any fillers in the area at least 3 days ahead.
• Continue prescription meds for chronic conditions unless told otherwise.

Personal Preparation:

• Shower before surgery, as you may not be able to for a few days after.
• Wear loose, front-button clothes and bring a hat and sunglasses.
• Prepare questions for your surgeon and consider bringing a support person.

During and Immediately After the Procedure

Most eyelid surgeries in Korea are outpatient, lasting 30 minutes to 2 hours. Anesthesia type depends on the procedure.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

You’ll likely use cold compresses, keep your head elevated, and use prescribed medications. Avoid strenuous activity, swimming, and getting the area wet until healed. Stitches come out in 5–7 days, and swelling/bruising usually resolves in 1–2 weeks.

Plan to stay in Korea for 2 days (for non-incisional procedures) to 1–2 weeks (for more complex surgeries). Clinics provide follow-up care, and you may be able to arrange suture removal at home if needed.

Logistics for Medical Tourists

Book accommodation near your clinic, and check passport/visa requirements. Many clinics offer all-inclusive packages with accommodation and post-op care. Bringing a support person is highly recommended.

South Korea’s medical tourism system is designed to make your experience smooth, with support from consultation through recovery.

Detailed Medical Procedures for Eyelid Correction

The right surgery depends on what’s causing your droopy eyelids, how severe it is, and how well your eyelid muscles work. It’s best to see an oculoplastic ophthalmologist—a specialist in both eye care and plastic surgery.

Canthoplasty

Canthoplasty reshapes the outer (and sometimes inner) corners of the eyes. It can lift sagging eyelids, change the eye’s shape, and even improve your field of vision. The results are usually permanent, though some people may need a touch-up years later.

Types and Techniques

• Lateral Canthoplasty: Lifts or reconstructs the outer eye corner for a more open, almond-shaped look.
• Epicanthoplasty (Medial Canthoplasty): Alters the inner eye corner, often to reduce the Mongolian fold.
• Lower Canthoplasty (Vertical Canthoplasty): Pulls the lower eye corner down for a larger-looking eye. Sometimes combined with lateral canthoplasty as Dual Canthoplasty.

Procedure Overview

Canthoplasty is usually done under local anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision, tightens the eyelid tendon and muscle, and closes the incision with care to avoid damaging tear ducts. The surgery takes 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Recovery and Outcomes

Recovery takes 2–4 weeks. Expect some swelling and bruising at first, with incision lines fading over a few months. Follow your doctor’s instructions—avoid strenuous activity, keep your head elevated, and use prescribed medications. Canthoplasty can improve both appearance and function, correcting issues like lagophthalmos, ectropion, and entropion.

Potential Complications

Risks include minor scarring, bleeding, swelling, pain, dry eyes, infection, and possible asymmetry.

Ptosis Correction Surgery

Ptosis correction surgery lifts the upper eyelid by fixing the muscle or tendon that’s not working properly. The main goal is to improve vision and appearance.

Surgical Approaches

• External Approach (Levator Advancement): For strong muscles, the surgeon makes an incision in the eyelid crease, repositions the levator muscle, and adjusts the eyelid height.
• Internal Approach: Also for strong muscles, but the incision is inside the eyelid. The surgeon shortens either the levator or Mueller’s muscle.
• Frontalis Sling Fixation: For weak muscles, the eyelid is connected to the forehead muscle using a silicone rod, so raising your eyebrows lifts the eyelid.

Procedure Overview

These are outpatient surgeries, usually lasting about an hour. The surgeon adjusts the eyelid muscles to achieve the right lift.

Recovery and Outcomes

Most people return to normal life in 5–7 days. Swelling and bruising are common for a week or two. Eye drops and ointments help prevent dryness and infection. The benefits include better vision, a more alert look, and increased confidence.

Potential Complications

Some asymmetry is possible, and after frontalis sling fixation, you might not be able to close your eye completely for a while. Dry eyes and the need for revision surgery are other possible issues.

Laser Canthoplasty

Laser Canthoplasty uses laser technology to reshape the outer eye corners. It’s especially popular in South Korea for creating large, almond-shaped eyes.

Purpose and Key Advantages

Laser Canthoplasty is all about aesthetics—making the eyes look longer and more youthful. The laser allows for precise cuts, less bleeding, and faster healing compared to traditional surgery.

Procedure Overview

Done under local anesthesia, the surgeon uses a laser to make incisions and reshape the lateral canthal tendon. The procedure takes 30 minutes to an hour.

Recovery and Outcomes

Laser Canthoplasty usually means less swelling and bruising, with most people recovering in 1–2 weeks. It’s often combined with other procedures like Double Eyelid Surgery or Ptosis Correction for more dramatic results.

Combining procedures can address multiple issues—muscle function, skin laxity, eye shape, and brow position—for a more complete transformation. These surgeries require both technical skill and an artistic eye, so choosing an experienced oculoplastic ophthalmologist is crucial.

Laser technology offers extra precision and a smoother recovery, but it’s mainly used for lateral canthoplasty; there’s less evidence for its use in medial canthoplasty.

Costs of Eyelid Procedures in South Korea and International Comparison

Prices vary by clinic, surgeon, and procedure complexity.

Estimated Costs in South Korea

• Canthoplasty: $1,000–$3,000 USD (some sources: $2,188–$5,170 USD)
• Ptosis Correction: $1,400–$1,900 USD for one eye; $2,200–$3,000 USD for both; broader range: $1,032–$3,096 USD
• Laser Canthoplasty: $1,000–$3,000 USD
• Combined Procedures: $2,700–$3,800 USD

These prices often include surgery, consultations, and medications, but anesthesia may be extra. Outpatient procedures help keep costs down.

Comparative Costs for Medical Tourists

South Korea’s eyelid surgery costs are typically $1,000–$4,000 USD, sometimes up to $6,700 USD. Here’s a quick look:

Country	Eyelid Surgery Cost (USD)	Notes
South Korea	$1,000 - $3,000	Competitive pricing, experienced surgeons, advanced techniques

South Korea stands out for affordable, high-quality care, with many clinics offering all-inclusive packages that cover everything from surgery to translation services.

Additional Travel and Accommodation Costs

Budget for:

• Airfare: $600–$1,500 USD
• Accommodation: $30–$150+ USD/night (about $700–$2,100 USD for 2 weeks)
• Meals: $15–$50 USD/day (about $280–$700 USD for 2 weeks)
• Local Transportation: $50–$150 USD
• Miscellaneous: $50–$200 USD (insurance), $20–$50 USD (SIM card), $200–$500 USD (leisure)

Total travel and living expenses (excluding surgery): $2,000–$5,000 USD.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes for Eyelid Procedures for Droopy Eyelids

Patients who’ve had canthoplasty, ptosis correction, or laser canthoplasty often report high satisfaction, with improvements in both looks and quality of life.

Canthoplasty Outcomes

Patients see a more almond-shaped, youthful eye, with correction of sagging or downturned corners. It also helps with functional issues like ectropion, entropion, and lagophthalmos. Recovery is usually quick, especially with laser techniques.

Ptosis Correction Outcomes

People often feel more awake and confident, with better vision and a natural eyelid position. Many describe the improvement as “life-changing,” with minimal downtime and a quick return to daily life.

Addressing Specific Issues

These surgeries can fix uneven eyelids, sagging from eczema, “sleepy eyes,” and tired appearance. Revision surgeries are available if previous procedures didn’t deliver the desired results.

Patients consistently highlight not just cosmetic improvements, but also better vision, less eye strain, and greater confidence. Surgeon empathy, clear communication, and supportive aftercare are often cited as key to a positive experience.

Conclusion

“Droopy eyelids” (Ptosis or Blepharoptosis) can affect both appearance and vision, and may signal underlying health issues—so a proper diagnosis is essential. Treatments like Canthoplasty, Ptosis Correction, and Laser Canthoplasty offer tailored solutions, often with the best results from a skilled oculoplastic ophthalmologist. South Korea stands out for its combination of expertise, affordability, and comprehensive patient support, making it a top choice for medical tourists. Ultimately, these procedures can deliver both functional and cosmetic benefits, improving quality of life and confidence for many patients.

References

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