Medical Tourism Blog
Scleral Show Treatment in Korea: Canthoplasty, Eyelid Retraction Repair & Laser Canthoplasty
Table of contents
- Detailed Explanation of Surgical Procedures
- Canthoplasty
- Eyelid Retraction Repair
- Laser Canthoplasty
- Best Clinics in Korea for Scleral Show
- The Process in South Korea
- Benefits of Choosing South Korea
- Patient Experiences
- 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!
Scleral show is a condition where the white part of the eye, called the sclera, is more visible below the iris than usual. This happens when the lower eyelid sits lower than normal, exposing more of the eyeball. Various factors can cause this, including natural anatomy, aging, hormonal changes, or medical treatments. Understanding scleral show helps patients explore the best options for managing or correcting it.
Though "scleral show" is the medical term, you might hear other names like "lower eyelid retraction" or "round eye." Lower eyelid retraction means the lower eyelid margin moves downward, causing the sclera to show. "Round eye" describes how the eye looks more circular due to the eyelid’s position. The Japanese term "Sanpaku eyes" refers to visible white areas above or below the iris. In Western medicine, "scleral show" specifically describes the increased visibility of the sclera below the iris. Knowing these terms can help when researching or discussing the condition with doctors.
Scleral show can result from several causes. Some people naturally have this eyelid position due to their anatomy. Aging weakens muscles like the orbicularis oculi, which can cause the lower eyelid to sag. Thyroid disorders, especially hyperthyroidism, may change eyelid and eyeball positions, leading to scleral show. Eye trauma or complications from eyelid surgeries such as blepharoplasty can also cause it—removing too much skin or fat during surgery may pull the eyelid down. Additionally, features like an under-projected maxilla (upper jaw bone) or mild exophthalmos (eye protrusion) can contribute. Identifying the exact cause is key to choosing the right treatment.
Detailed Explanation of Surgical Procedures
If you want to correct scleral show, several surgical options exist, each working differently. These include Canthoplasty, Eyelid Retraction Repair, and Laser Canthoplasty.
Canthoplasty
Canthoplasty reshapes or tightens the outer corner of the eye, called the lateral canthus. The surgeon makes a small incision at the eye’s outer corner to access the lateral canthal tendon. They may cut and reposition or tighten this tendon, then anchor it to the lateral orbital rim (the bony edge of the eye socket). This can lift the outer lower eyelid, indirectly improving scleral show.
Different canthoplasty techniques aim to preserve the eye’s natural shape and avoid deformities. Permanent sutures might secure the eyelid to the brow bone or orbital bone’s outer layer, creating a subtle lift. Sometimes, spacer grafts are added to raise the lower eyelid margin further. While canthoplasty doesn’t directly fix eyelid retraction, it supports the lower eyelid and helps prevent sagging that reveals too much sclera.
Eyelid Retraction Repair
Eyelid Retraction Repair directly targets the lower eyelid’s downward displacement, the main cause of scleral show. The goal is to raise the eyelid margin to cover the exposed sclera, improving both appearance and comfort.
Surgeons use various techniques depending on the cause and severity. Spacer grafts made from Alloderm (processed human skin), ear or nasal cartilage, hard palate mucosa, or donor sclera add volume and support to lift the eyelid. Other methods release the lower eyelid retractors (muscles pulling the eyelid down). If thyroid eye disease causes the problem, treating the thyroid is essential, and orbital decompression surgery may be needed to create more space behind the eyeball. A midface lift can also support the lower eyelid by elevating cheek tissues. When scarring restricts movement, skin grafts help release tension. The approach is personalized based on the patient’s condition.
This surgery not only improves the eye’s look but also reduces symptoms like dryness, irritation, and blurred vision caused by excessive eye exposure. It can restore full eyelid closure, which is vital for eye health.
Laser Canthoplasty
Laser Canthoplasty uses laser technology to reshape the eye’s outer corner with precision. The laser makes fine incisions at the lateral canthus, sealing blood vessels as it cuts. This reduces bleeding and inflammation compared to traditional scalpel surgery.
The surgeon adjusts the lateral canthal tendon by tightening or repositioning it to achieve the desired eye shape. The laser’s precision aims to minimize scarring, though healing varies by individual. Some reports note that laser blepharoplasty may cause irregular scars due to thermal effects.
Like traditional canthoplasty, laser canthoplasty can subtly lift and tighten the outer lower eyelid, which may help mild scleral show. However, its main goal is to create a more youthful, open, and elongated eye appearance rather than directly correcting eyelid retraction.
Best Clinics in Korea for Scleral Show
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for scleral show:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| Braun Plastic Surgery Clinic | Self-developed techniques; personalized consultation; surgeon-led personalized surgery; scleral show correction expertise; ongoing research toward safer and more effective methods; precise, balanced, and natural-looking results in delicate eye-area procedures; strong expertise in eyelid surgery, ptosis correction, canthoplasty, revision eyelid procedures, and anti-aging eye rejuvenation; detailed anatomical understanding for customized scleral show correction; distinguished team including Chief Dr. Kim Tae-gyu, CEO Lee Ji-won, and Dr. Ryu Dong-wan who regularly present at major international conferences; advanced surgical knowledge and extensive clinical experience; safety-first approach; international academic leadership; trusted reputation in Korea as a leading option for scleral show treatment | Double eyelid surgery; ptosis correction; canthoplasty; anti-aging eyelid surgery; revision double eyelid surgery |
| Mate Plastic Surgery Clinic | Mate Plastic Surgery Clinic, conveniently located near Sinnonhyeon Station, is a well-known Korean plastic surgery clinic offering a broad range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures aimed at improving both appearance and self-confidence; specialized treatments across facial contouring, rhinoplasty, double eyelid surgery, fat grafting, breast surgery, body contouring, and anti-aging care; comprehensive option for individualized facial and body enhancement in Korea; experience in delicate facial procedures, including incisional and non-incisional double eyelid surgery; eye-related aesthetic services; procedures such as V-line surgery, cheekbone reduction, facelift, Botox, and rhinoplasty; treatments performed by experienced surgeons focused on safety and optimal results | Incisional and non-incisional double eyelid surgery; V-line surgery; cheekbone reduction; facelift; Botox; rhinoplasty; facial contouring |
Braun Plastic Surgery Clinic
Braun Plastic Surgery Clinic is widely recognized in Korea for its philosophy of self-developed techniques, personalized consultation, and surgeon-led personalized surgery, making it a standout choice for patients seeking scleral show correction. The clinic’s medical team continuously researches safer and more effective surgical methods to achieve more satisfying results, and this commitment is especially meaningful for delicate eye-area procedures where precision, balance, and natural-looking improvement are essential. With strong expertise in eyelid surgery, ptosis correction, canthoplasty, revision eyelid procedures, and anti-aging eye rejuvenation, Braun offers the kind of detailed anatomical understanding needed to address scleral show in a customized way. Backed by a distinguished team that includes Chief Dr. Kim Tae-gyu, CEO Lee Ji-won, and Dr. Ryu Dong-wan, who regularly present at major international academic conferences, Braun combines advanced surgical knowledge, extensive clinical experience, and a strong safety-first approach, reinforcing its reputation as one of the best clinics in Korea for sophisticated corrective eye surgery.
• Specialized eye surgery expertise: Braun provides double eyelid surgery, ptosis correction, canthoplasty, anti-aging eyelid surgery, and revision double eyelid surgery, all of which are highly relevant for evaluating and correcting scleral show.
• Personalized surgical planning: The clinic emphasizes personal consultation and personal surgery, allowing each scleral show case to be assessed individually rather than treated with a one-size-fits-all approach.
• Strong revision capability: Because scleral show can sometimes appear after previous eye surgery or with aging-related changes, Braun’s experience in revision procedures is a major advantage.
• Safety-focused innovation: Braun’s surgeons continuously refine their techniques through research, aiming for safe, effective, and more satisfying outcomes in delicate facial procedures.
• Advanced aesthetic judgment: The clinic’s broad expertise in facial contouring, anti-aging, and rhinoplasty supports better harmony between the eyes and the rest of the face after correction.
• International academic leadership: Braun’s doctors actively present their work at major global conferences, showing that the clinic remains current with evolving surgical methods and medical standards.
• Trusted reputation in Korea: Braun has built a strong name through clinical experience, surgical innovation, and consistent dedication to patient satisfaction, which is why many patients consider it a leading option for scleral show treatment.
Find more about this clinic here: Braun Plastic Surgery Clinic Website
Mate Plastic Surgery Clinic
Mate Plastic Surgery Clinic, conveniently located near Sinnonhyeon Station, is a well-known Korean plastic surgery clinic offering a broad range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures aimed at improving both appearance and self-confidence. The clinic provides specialized treatments across facial contouring, rhinoplasty, double eyelid surgery, fat grafting, breast surgery, body contouring, and anti-aging care, making it a comprehensive option for patients seeking individualized facial and body enhancement in Korea.
For patients researching clinics in Korea while learning about concerns such as scleral show and overall eye-area aesthetics, Mate Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out for its experience in delicate facial procedures, including incisional and non-incisional double eyelid surgery. In addition to eye-related aesthetic services, the clinic also offers procedures such as V-line surgery, cheekbone reduction, facelift, Botox, and rhinoplasty, with treatments performed by experienced surgeons focused on safety and optimal results.
Find more about this clinic here: Mate Plastic Surgery Clinic Website
The Process in South Korea
South Korea is a popular destination for scleral show surgery, known for its skilled cosmetic surgeons. Here’s what to expect:
- Initial Consultation: A thorough eye exam and discussion of goals, often available online for international patients.
- Preoperative Preparation: Medical tests and instructions on medications to avoid (like aspirin and ibuprofen) and fasting.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the procedure and patient preference.
- Surgery: Takes 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the technique and case complexity.
- Postoperative Care: Instructions on cleaning, medication use, avoiding strenuous activity, and using cold compresses to reduce swelling.
- Recovery: Swelling and bruising last 1-2 weeks; sutures removed after 5-7 days; full healing may take months.
- Follow-up: Clinics provide personalized recovery plans and monitor healing.
Choosing a reputable clinic with experienced oculoplastic surgeons is vital. Many South Korean clinics offer English-speaking staff and translation services to assist international patients. Planning an 8-day stay or longer is recommended to allow for surgery and initial recovery.
| Procedure | Typical Duration (Surgery time) | Anesthesia Type | Expected Initial Recovery (Swelling/Bruising) | Stitch Removal Time | Focus in Addressing Scleral Show | Key Considerations for South Korea |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canthoplasty | 30 mins - 2 hours | Local with sedation or General | 1-2 weeks | 5-7 days | Indirectly by elevating the outer corner of the lower eyelid | Popular for achieving "almond eye" look; often combined with other procedures. |
| Eyelid Retraction Repair | Varies (30 mins - 2 hours) | Local with sedation or General | 1-2 weeks | 5-7 days | Directly by repositioning the lower eyelid to cover the sclera | Spacer grafts commonly used; addressing underlying causes like thyroid disease. |
| Laser Canthoplasty | 30 mins - 1 hour | Local anesthesia or mild sedation | 1 week | 5-7 days | Indirectly by subtly lifting the outer corner of the eye | Uses laser for precise incisions, potentially reducing bleeding and scarring. |
Benefits of Choosing South Korea
South Korea is renowned for advanced cosmetic eye surgeries. Surgeons there specialize in procedures like canthoplasty and eyelid retraction repair, often refining techniques to minimize side effects and scarring.
Clinics invest in cutting-edge technology, including laser canthoplasty, which offers precision and potentially faster recovery. This access to innovation can improve outcomes and comfort.
Costs in South Korea are generally lower than in the US, Europe, and other countries. Prices often include surgeon fees, anesthesia, and facility charges, providing transparency for international patients.
Many clinics offer comprehensive packages for overseas patients, including travel help, accommodation, and language support. Personalized recovery plans and treatments to aid healing are common, making the experience smoother.
| Procedure | Average Cost in South Korea (USD) | Average Cost in the United States (USD) | Average Cost in the United Kingdom (USD) | Average Cost in Turkey (USD) | Average Cost in Thailand (USD) | Average Cost in Spain (USD) | Average Cost in Australia (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canthoplasty | $2,143 - $3,613 | $4,000 - $5,117 | $7,200 | $2,000 | N/A | $6,000 | N/A |
| Eyelid Retraction Repair | $1,000 - $2,290 (Blepharoplasty) | $3,000 - $6,000 (Blepharoplasty) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Laser Canthoplasty | $1,000 - $3,000 | $5,000 - $10,000 (Related Procedures) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | $20 - $440 (Capsular Laser) |
Note: Costs are approximate and vary by clinic, surgeon experience, and case complexity. Eyelid Retraction Repair costs are approximated using blepharoplasty data due to limited specific pricing.
Patient Experiences
Many patients who had canthoplasty or eyelid retraction repair in South Korea report positive results. Reviews often highlight improved eye shape—more almond-shaped or youthful—and praise surgeons’ skills and clinic care quality. Studies also show good cosmetic outcomes, including successful revision surgeries for patients unhappy with previous eyelid procedures done elsewhere.
Besides aesthetics, patients note functional benefits. Correcting scleral show can make eyes look less tired and reduce discomfort like dryness, irritation, and tearing. Eyelid retraction repair can restore full eyelid closure, improving eye health. These outcomes suggest surgery in South Korea can enhance both appearance and quality of life.
| Procedure | Key Positive Themes from Reviews | Key Concerns or Considerations from Reviews | Overall Satisfaction Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canthoplasty | Improved eye shape, youthful look, natural results, increased confidence | Swelling duration, possible asymmetry, need for skilled surgeon | Generally high, with many satisfied with aesthetic changes |
| Eyelid Retraction Repair | Reduced scleral show, natural eyelid position, improved comfort, correction of prior issues | Recovery swelling, possible grafts, importance of treating underlying conditions | High, especially when functional issues improve |
| Laser Canthoplasty | Precise, less bleeding and scarring, shorter recovery, desired eye shape | May not suit all scleral show types, subtler results, surgeon skill needed | Positive, appreciated for minimally invasive approach |
Conclusion
Scleral show, caused by various factors like anatomy, aging, or prior surgery, can be effectively addressed through surgical options such as canthoplasty, eyelid retraction repair, and laser canthoplasty. South Korea stands out as a leading destination for these procedures due to its expert surgeons, advanced technology, cost advantages, and comprehensive care for international patients. Patient feedback highlights both aesthetic and functional improvements following surgery. However, it’s essential to have realistic expectations and consult experienced specialists to choose the best treatment plan tailored to individual needs.
