Medical Tourism Blog
Effective Dry Eye Relief: Eyelid Retraction Repair Procedures in Korea
Table of contents
- The Link Between Eyelid Retraction and Dry Eyes
- Eyelid Retraction Repair: A Detailed Medical Procedure
- Best Clinics in Korea for Dry Eyes
- Navigating Eyelid Retraction Repair in South Korea
- Patient Outcomes: Addressing Dry Eyes Through Eyelid Retraction Repair
- Conclusion: Key Considerations for Patients
- References
Dry eye syndrome is a common condition affecting millions worldwide, caused by insufficient moisture in the eyes. This lack of lubrication can lead to uncomfortable symptoms and, if untreated, serious complications. Understanding this condition helps patients find effective treatments.
Dry eye syndrome happens when the eyes either don’t produce enough tears or the tears are poor quality, resulting in inadequate lubrication of the eye’s surface. This tear film instability can cause inflammation and damage to the cornea and conjunctiva. Symptoms vary from mild to severe and include stinging, burning, scratchiness, a feeling of something in the eye, stringy mucus, light sensitivity, redness, difficulty wearing contact lenses, blurred vision, and eye fatigue. Interestingly, some people with dry eyes also experience watery eyes, a reflex to irritation caused by dryness, showing the complex nature of eye surface health.
The causes of dry eye syndrome are diverse, often involving either reduced tear production (aqueous deficient dry eye) or increased tear evaporation (evaporative dry eye), sometimes both. Reduced tear production may result from aging, medical conditions, or medications. Increased evaporation often relates to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which affects the oily layer of the tear film.
Several factors raise the risk of dry eyes. Age is significant, with tear production declining after 50. Women are more susceptible due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, birth control use, and menopause. Medical conditions like Sjögren's syndrome, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and blepharitis increase risk. Medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure drugs, and antidepressants can reduce tear production. Environmental factors like dry air, wind, and smoke worsen evaporation. Contact lens use and previous refractive surgeries like LASIK also contribute.
Though often seen as minor, dry eyes can cause complications if untreated. The tear film protects the eye from infection, so inadequate tears increase infection risk. Severe dry eyes may lead to inflammation, corneal abrasions, ulcers, and vision loss. Discomfort and visual problems can significantly affect daily activities like reading or computer work.
It’s helpful to know the various terms used for dry eyes. While “dry eyes” is common, medical terms include Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), meaning dryness of the cornea and conjunctiva; Dry eye disease (DED), often interchangeable with dry eye syndrome (DES); Ocular surface disease (OSD), a broader term covering dry eye and other front eye conditions; and Dysfunctional tear syndrome (DTS), highlighting tear film imbalance. Less common terms include keratitis sicca, xerophthalmia, lacrimal keratoconjunctivitis, evaporative tear deficiency, and aqueous tear deficiency. Knowing these helps patients understand medical discussions and communicate with doctors.
The Link Between Eyelid Retraction and Dry Eyes
Eyelid retraction is when the upper or lower eyelid sits abnormally high or low relative to the eyeball. Upper eyelid retraction pulls the lid upward, exposing more white sclera above the iris; lower eyelid retraction pulls the lid downward, exposing more sclera below the iris. This affects both appearance and eye function.
Common causes include thyroid eye disease (Graves' disease), an autoimmune disorder affecting eye muscles and tissues. Previous eye surgeries, especially blepharoplasty, trauma, congenital abnormalities, and aging (which stretches eyelid tissues) also cause retraction. Less common causes are neurological diseases like midbrain disease, tumors, blepharitis, facial paralysis, Cushing syndrome, hydrocephalus, and mechanical factors such as high myopia or proptosis. Contact lens use and scarring can also contribute. Because causes vary widely, thorough medical evaluation is essential.
Eyelid retraction impacts dry eye symptoms mainly by interfering with eyelid closure. Retracted lids may not close fully (lagophthalmos), exposing the eye surface to air and speeding tear evaporation. This leads to dryness, irritation, redness, burning, and blurred vision. Symptoms resemble general dry eye syndrome but require addressing the eyelid position for lasting relief.
Lower eyelid retraction can also disrupt tear drainage by misaligning the puncta, the tiny openings that drain tears. When the lower lid pulls down, puncta may not contact the tear film properly, causing tears to overflow onto the face despite dry eye sensations. This paradox highlights the complex relationship between eyelid position and tear dynamics.
Eyelid Retraction Repair: A Detailed Medical Procedure
Eyelid retraction repair surgery aims to restore the eyelid to its natural position, ensuring proper eyeball coverage. This reduces dry eye symptoms caused by excessive exposure and improves eye appearance by restoring a natural almond shape. The surgery also lowers infection risk and can enhance vision affected by chronic dryness.
Techniques vary depending on whether the upper or lower eyelid is involved and the cause of retraction.
For upper eyelid retraction repair, the goal is to lower the upper lid margin by adjusting the levator and Müller's muscles that elevate the eyelid. Surgeons may release or recess these muscles through a skin incision in the eyelid crease or a transconjunctival approach inside the eyelid, avoiding visible scars. Sometimes parts of Müller's muscle or the levator aponeurosis are excised or recessed, with spacers or grafts used to achieve the right height. Botulinum toxin injections offer a less invasive, temporary option for mild cases. In East Asian patients with thyroid eye disease, a modified full-thickness graded blepharotomy technique has proven safe and effective.
Lower eyelid retraction repair focuses on elevating the lower lid margin to reduce scleral exposure. Incisions are made at the outer eyelid corner (lateral canthus) or inside the lower eyelid (transconjunctival). The lower eyelid retractors are released, and spacer grafts often support elevation. Grafts may come from ear cartilage, hard palate mucosa, donor sclera, Alloderm, oral mucosa, or synthetic materials like polytetrafluoroethylene. Canthoplasty or canthopexy procedures adjust the outer eyelid corner tension. Sometimes a midface or cheek lift supports the lower eyelid. For eyelid laxity after blepharoplasty, a lateral tarsal strip tightens the eyelid horizontally. Severe scarring or tissue loss may require eyelid lengthening with grafts or scar release. In extreme cases, tarsorrhaphy (partial eyelid sewing) protects the cornea temporarily. For eyelid closure difficulty, gold or platinum weights can be implanted in the upper eyelid. Additional procedures like suborbicularis oculi fat (SOOF) lifts or silicone implants may enhance function and appearance. The surgical plan is tailored to each patient’s needs.
Eyelid retraction repair is usually done under local anesthesia with sedation, though general anesthesia may be used for complex cases or patient preference. Preoperative evaluation includes detailed eyelid and eye health exams. The surgeon discusses options, outcomes, and risks. Incisions are carefully placed to minimize visible scars. The surgeon adjusts muscles, tissues, or inserts grafts to reposition the eyelid, then closes incisions with fine sutures. Antibiotic ointment or dressings protect the area. Surgery lasts 30 to 90 minutes depending on complexity.
Postoperative care involves keeping the head elevated, applying cold compresses to reduce swelling and bruising, and avoiding strenuous activity for weeks. Eye drops or ointments help healing and prevent infection. Swelling and bruising usually improve within 2 to 3 weeks, though some swelling may linger longer; bruising can take up to four weeks to clear. Pain is generally mild and manageable with medication. Non-dissolvable sutures are removed 7 to 10 days after surgery. Patients should avoid contact lenses and eye makeup for about two weeks. Most resume normal activities quickly but should avoid heavy lifting and exercise for 1 to 2 weeks. Driving is allowed once vision clears and dressings are removed, per surgeon advice.
Risks include scarring, bruising, infection, under- or over-correction, asymmetry, palpable sutures, skin puckering, temporary or rare permanent numbness, inflammation possibly causing granulomas, and very rarely bleeding needing further treatment. Anesthesia risks are also discussed. Realistic expectations and strict adherence to postoperative care are vital for best results.
Best Clinics in Korea for Dry Eyes
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for dry eyes:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| THEPLUS Plastic Surgery | Gangnam’s Garosu-gil location with a four-floor, end-to-end care system; safety-first, function-meets-beauty philosophy; led by globally respected, academically active surgeons; Dr. Jeong (President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons) unites function and aesthetics; Dr. Kim (board-certified, award-winning researcher with worldwide society memberships) applies harmony-focused planning; team with 10+ years’ experience, journal/textbook contributions, and international symposium/webinar participation; meticulous, personalized communication from consultation through post-operative skincare; natural, long-lasting results; standout for eye-area treatments where comfort and aesthetics coexist | Double eyelid surgery, ptosis correction, canthoplasty, blepharoplasty |
| Made Young Plastic Surgery | Premium Gangnam center with an eye-focused pedigree; led by Dr. Park Byung-Chan (eye-surgery specialist, 15 years’ experience); natural results from day one; genuine, patient-centered consultations; fully customized planning of incision lines, double eyelid height, and eyelid thickness; supports healthy eyelid function and comfortable blinking; verified medical team; direct surgeon-led diagnosis; comprehensive safety system with full-time board-certified anesthesiologists; 1:1 dedicated monitoring; cross-check protocol; full CCTV coverage of procedures; thorough aftercare with a dedicated center; awards: 2022 Korea No.1 Award, 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place; professional credibility: Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, certified by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society; premium, patient-first environment in Gangnam | Double eyelid surgery (incisional and non-incisional), ptosis correction, upper/lower blepharoplasty, canthoplasty, dark-circle treatments; customized incision lines, eyelid height, and thickness |
| SH Clinic | Sinsa, Seoul multi-specialty center combining stem-cell science, women’s healthcare, aesthetic dermatology, and modern plastic surgery; SH Stem Cell Center specialized in Stem Cell Therapy with personalized, comprehensive plans; SH Gynecology Clinic offers full-spectrum women’s health care and wide-ranging vaginal rejuvenation options; integrated wellness and periocular aesthetics in one cohesive setting | Upper/lower blepharoplasty, laser lifting, skin-booster injections, botox, fillers, thread lifts; stem cell injections, HIFU treatments, vaginal tightening, implant surgery |
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery
Situated in Gangnam’s Garosu-gil with a four-floor, end-to-end care system, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery is the best choice in Korea for patients with dry-eye concerns seeking eyelid and periocular procedures because its safety-first, function-meets-beauty philosophy is led by globally respected, academically active surgeons. Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, approaches every case by uniting function and aesthetics—key to preserving comfortable eye mechanics in procedures like double eyelid surgery, ptosis correction, canthoplasty, and blepharoplasty—while Dr. Kim, a board-certified surgeon and award-winning researcher with worldwide society memberships, applies rigorous, harmony-focused planning honed through his leadership in education and scholarship. Backed by a team with over a decade of experience, consistent contributions to journals and textbooks, and ongoing participation in international symposiums and webinars, the clinic maintains cutting-edge techniques and meticulous, personalized communication from consultation through post-operative skincare. This culture of precision, education, and patient-centered care—supported by director-level expertise and a track record of natural, long-lasting results—makes THEPLUS Plastic Surgery a standout destination for eye-area treatments where comfort and aesthetics must coexist.
You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website
Made Young Plastic Surgery
Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in Seoul’s prestigious Gangnam district, is a premium center for facial and anti-aging procedures with a strong, eye-focused pedigree. Led by Dr. Park Byung-Chan—an eye-surgery specialist with 15 years of dedicated experience—the clinic is renowned for creating natural, beautiful results that look right even on the day of surgery. From consultation through recovery, Made Young emphasizes genuine, patient-centered care and meticulous customization of incision lines, double eyelid height, eyelid thickness, and overall image. This precision not only enhances aesthetics but also supports healthy eyelid function and comfortable blinking—key factors for patients concerned about dry-eye symptoms around eyelid procedures. With a verified medical team, a comprehensive safety system, and a thorough aftercare pathway, Made Young brings together expertise, transparency, and outcomes that prioritize both beauty and ocular comfort.
Why Made Young is the best choice for dry-eye–conscious eyelid surgery
- Eye-exclusive expertise: Dr. Park Byung-Chan has 15 years focused solely on eye surgery, bringing deep knowledge of eyelid anatomy, blink mechanics, and tissue handling that helps protect tear film stability.
- Natural results from day one: Techniques that avoid over-resection and respect eyelid thickness support complete closure and comfortable blinking—critical for minimizing dry-eye risk after surgery.
- Fully customized planning: Incision lines, double eyelid height, and eyelid thickness are tailored to your anatomy and lifestyle, balancing aesthetic goals with ocular surface comfort.
- Genuine, patient-centered consultations: Direct evaluation by the operating surgeon ensures that baseline dryness, screen time, contact lens use, and other risk factors are considered in your surgical plan.
- Verified medical team and expertise: Only highly skilled doctors with an average of over 15 years of experience, backed by extensive clinical cases.
- Direct surgeon-led diagnosis: The medical team conducts consultations and diagnoses before any procedure, aligning expectations with achievable, eye-safe techniques.
- Comprehensive safety system: Full-time board-certified anesthesiologists on site for every case.
- 1:1 dedicated monitoring: One anesthesiologist continuously monitors one patient, enhancing intraoperative stability and comfort.
- Cross-check protocol: Multiple anesthesiologists collaborate instantly in an emergency for precise assessment and response.
- Full CCTV coverage of procedures: Ensures maximum transparency and trust.
- Thorough aftercare system: A separate, dedicated aftercare center delivers complete and systematic post-procedure care, supporting smooth healing and ocular surface comfort.
- Recognized excellence: 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place.
- Professional credibility: Selected as an Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and certified by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society.
- Comprehensive eye menu: From double eyelid surgery (incisional and non-incisional) to ptosis correction, upper/lower blepharoplasty, canthoplasty, and dark-circle treatments, the breadth of options allows technique selection that prioritizes tear preservation and eyelid function.
- Premium, patient-first environment in Gangnam: A refined, safety-led setting where aesthetic goals are achieved without compromising ocular health.
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. Specialized in Stem Cell Therapy and Gynecology, the SH Stem Cell Center designs personalized, comprehensive plans that span facial rejuvenation and anti-aging to advanced regenerative therapies for serious conditions, while the SH Gynecology Clinic delivers full-spectrum women’s health care, from routine gynecology to a wide range of vaginal rejuvenation options—including fillers, stem cell injections, HIFU treatments, vaginal tightening, and implant surgery—alongside screening and treatment services.
For readers navigating dry eye concerns who also value integrated wellness and periocular aesthetics, SH Clinic offers complementary services that support overall comfort and confidence. Its aesthetic dermatology and plastic surgery programs include upper and lower blepharoplasty, laser lifting, skin-booster injections, botox, fillers, and thread lifts to refine the eye area and facial contours, while regenerative and women’s-health experts tailor care to life-stage needs. While dry eye disease itself requires dedicated ophthalmic diagnosis and treatment, SH Clinic provides a cohesive setting for regenerative wellness and periocular aesthetic solutions in one convenient location.
You can check out their website here: SH Clinic Website
Navigating Eyelid Retraction Repair in South Korea
South Korea is a leading destination for eyelid retraction repair, known for advanced medical expertise in cosmetic and ophthalmic surgery. International patients should follow key steps to access care.
First, research clinics and surgeons specializing in eyelid retraction repair. Many offer online consultations to discuss conditions and options remotely. Using a medical tourism facilitator is recommended; they help navigate the healthcare system, find reliable providers, book appointments, arrange travel and accommodation, and provide translation services. The Korea Tourism Organization’s Medical Tourism Business Center lists accredited centers and official facilitators.
Check visa requirements based on nationality. Many countries have visa waivers for short visits, but longer medical stays may require a medical tourism visa (C-3-3). This visa needs hospital appointment confirmation, proof of funds, and an application form. Registered facilitators can assist with visa processes.
After selecting a clinic and surgeon, a treatment plan is made and surgery scheduled. Patients arrange flights and lodging, ideally near the medical facility. Some clinics offer packages including accommodation. Upon arrival, patients undergo preoperative assessments and final consultations. Surgery is performed as planned. Postoperative care instructions must be followed carefully, and follow-up visits attended. Patients should allow 7 to 14 days in South Korea for recovery and check-ups before returning home.
South Korea offers several advantages: a world-class healthcare system with highly skilled surgeons, especially in cosmetic and eye surgery; advanced technology and international accreditations like JCI; competitive pricing often 30% to 60% lower than Western countries; and strong government support for medical tourism. Korean surgeons have extensive experience achieving natural, aesthetic results. The country’s medical tourism infrastructure includes international patient centers providing multilingual support, visa assistance, airport transfers, accommodation, and full coordination of care. South Korea also leads in minimally invasive and robotic surgical techniques.
Major hospitals and clinics in Seoul include Seoul National University Hospital, Asan Medical Center, Samsung Medical Center, Yonsei University Health System, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery, Made Young Plastic Surgery, Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic, Banobagi Plastic Surgery, VIP Plastic Surgery, JK Plastic Surgery Center, and others. This well-developed system makes South Korea an attractive choice for eyelid retraction repair.
Patient Outcomes: Addressing Dry Eyes Through Eyelid Retraction Repair
Correcting eyelid retraction surgically improves eyelid alignment and function, directly benefiting dry eye symptoms. Restoring normal eyelid closure reduces ocular surface exposure and tear evaporation, stabilizing the tear film. This leads to less stinging, burning, scratchiness, and grittiness, and often improves blurred vision linked to tear film instability.
In lower eyelid retraction, repositioning the eyelid restores puncta alignment, improving tear drainage and reducing reflex tearing caused by dryness. Fixing the anatomical problem offers more lasting relief than temporary treatments like artificial tears.
Clinical evidence supports these benefits. Lower eyelid retraction repair returns the lid to fit snugly against the eyeball, improving chronic conditions such as dry eyes, excessive tearing, redness, burning, and blurred vision from exposure keratoconjunctivitis. Proper eyelid closure protects the eye surface from drying and damage. Surgery also restores a natural, comfortable eyelid position.
For lower eyelid retraction after blepharoplasty, corrective surgery improves eye shape from rounded to a natural almond shape and enhances lid closure. One study on the lateral tarsal strip procedure showed 88.9% of patients had reduced excessive tearing post-surgery, with improved tear meniscus height, indicating better tear volume and dynamics.
Upper eyelid retraction surgery lowers the upper lid margin, reducing exposure and improving comfort. Patient testimonials and before-and-after photos often show both aesthetic and comfort improvements. These outcomes highlight eyelid retraction repair’s potential to relieve dry eye symptoms caused by abnormal eyelid positioning.
Conclusion: Key Considerations for Patients
Dry eye syndrome is common and can be worsened by eyelid retraction, which increases tear evaporation by preventing full eyelid closure. Eyelid retraction repair surgery corrects this abnormal position to relieve dry eye symptoms and improve eye comfort and health. The surgical approach depends on which eyelid is affected and the cause.
South Korea is a top choice for this surgery, offering expert surgeons, advanced facilities, and competitive prices. Patients should research providers, consider medical tourism facilitators, understand visa requirements, and plan sufficient recovery time in Korea.
While the main goal is to address dry eye symptoms, the surgery often also enhances eye appearance. Patients must have realistic expectations and understand potential risks. Consulting a qualified ophthalmologist or oculoplastic surgeon is essential to determine if eyelid retraction repair is the right treatment.
Table 1: Common Pseudonyms for Dry Eyes
| Common Name | Medical Term/Synonym |
|---|---|
| Dry eye | Keratoconjunctivitis sicca |
| Dry eye syndrome | Dry eye disease (DED) |
| Keratitis sicca | |
| Ocular surface disease (OSD) | |
| Dysfunctional tear syndrome (DTS) | |
| Xerophthalmia | |
| Lacrimal keratoconjunctivitis | |
| Evaporative tear deficiency | |
| Aqueous tear deficiency |
Table 2: Common Causes of Eyelid Retraction
| Cause | Description/Details |
|---|---|
| Thyroid eye disease (Graves' disease) | Autoimmune condition affecting muscles and tissues around the eyes. |
| Previous eye surgery (especially blepharoplasty) | Complication from cosmetic eyelid surgery. |
| Trauma or injury to the eye | Physical damage to eye or surrounding structures. |
| Congenital abnormalities | Present from birth. |
| Aging | Stretching and loss of eyelid tissue elasticity. |
| Midbrain disease | Neurological condition affecting brainstem. |
| Tumors | Abnormal tissue growth near the eye. |
| Blepharitis | Eyelid inflammation (linked to dry eye). |
| Paralysis | Affecting muscles controlling eyelid position. |
| Cushing syndrome | Hormonal disorder. |
| Hydrocephalus | Fluid buildup in the brain. |
| Facial palsy | Weakness or paralysis of facial muscles. |
| Recession of superior rectus muscle | Eye alignment surgery. |
| Contralateral ptosis | Drooping of opposite eyelid. |
| Mechanical causes | High myopia, proptosis, orbital fractures. |
| Cutaneous scarring | Scarring affecting eyelid skin. |
| Contact lens use | Prolonged or improper use. |
Table 3: Comparison of Eyelid Surgery Costs: South Korea vs. Other Regions (USD)
| Procedure | Estimated Cost in South Korea | Estimated Cost in the United States | Potential Savings (Percentage) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eyelid Surgery/Blepharoplasty | $1,500 - $4,700 | $3,000 - $15,000+ | 50% - 70%+ |
