Table of contents

• Comprehensive Overview of Treatment Modalities
• Best Clinics in Korea for Sunken Temples
• The Medical Tourism Journey in South Korea
• Cost Analysis: A Medical Tourist's Financial Perspective
• Patient Outcomes: Experiences and Expectations
• 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!

---

Sunken temples, a term often used by patients, refer to a loss of facial support in the upper face, clinically described as temporal hollowing or temporal atrophy. This issue manifests as a distinct concavity just above and around the temples, altering facial contours and making a person look older or fatigued. In more pronounced cases, the head might even take on a "peanut-like" or "cone-head" appearance. This shift disrupts the youthful "heart-shaped" facial outline, making features like cheekbones and veins stand out and leading to an overall facial imbalance. Addressing temporal volume loss is key to restoring harmony and a youthful look.

The Etiology of Volume Loss

Temporal hollowing is mostly a result of aging, as collagen and elastin production dips and fat and bone in the temples deplete over time. This process, called fat pad atrophy and bone resorption, is at the root of the problem. Yet, factors like rapid weight loss, excessive exercise, malnutrition, some diseases, genetics, or history of cranial surgery or trauma can speed up or cause this hollowing too.

The temples serve as an anchor for upper and mid-face features, so when volume disappears here, it can create a domino effect: the brow sags, eyes seem smaller, and mid-face soft tissues lose support. Restoring temple volume can subtly lift the brow, ease nasolabial lines, and create a more refreshed appearance. By seeing the temples as a keystone rather than an isolated aesthetic complaint, facial rejuvenation can be tackled more holistically.

Comprehensive Overview of Treatment Modalities

A variety of treatments exist for temporal hollowing, ranging from fast, non-invasive injectables to longer-term or permanent solutions.

Facial Fillers: The Non-Surgical Solution

Facial fillers or dermal fillers are the most popular, minimally invasive option for correcting sunken temples. This approach involves injecting gel-based substances into the temporal area, which instantly re-plumps hollows and attracts moisture to hydrate the skin. Some modern fillers also trigger the body to produce more collagen, providing both instant and longer-term improvements.

Common Filler Materials

• Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers: These are preferred for safety, reversibility, and natural results. Common brands for the temples include Juvederm Voluma, Restylane Lyft, and RHA 4. Lasting six to eighteen months, they suit a wide range of patients.
• Poly-L-lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers: Sculptra is the most popular option in this category. It works more slowly by stimulating collagen, with results visible over months and lasting two years or longer.
• Fat Transfer: Some elect for a permanent solution using their own fat, harvested and re-injected into the temples. Though longer-lasting than fillers, this is a more involved procedure with extra downtime.

The Procedure and Patient Experience

The process begins with a consultation and pre-procedure guidance, often advising patients to avoid alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain supplements a few days before. On treatment day, a numbing cream is applied, then the filler is injected using a fine needle or a blunt-tipped microcannula, which helps reduce bruising and risk. Injection time is brief—sometimes just 15 minutes—and discomfort is usually minimal.

Afterward, applying a cool compress, not touching the area, and sleeping with an elevated head are recommended for the first couple days. Mild swelling or bruising can occur, but typically resolves quickly. Vigorous activity, heat, and sun exposure should be avoided initially. Visible results appear within one to two weeks.

Fillers are ideal for those seeking immediate, non-permanent enhancement, making them a flexible, reversible option.

Thread Lifts: A Subtler Approach to Lifting

Thread lifts provide a gentle lift and encourage collagen growth through the insertion of dissolvable threads under the skin. This non-surgical technique can address sagging and mild volume loss, sitting between fillers and surgical solutions in terms of effect and longevity.

Types of Threads and Their Applications

Threads come in several materials:

• Polydioxanone (PDO): Commonly used, biodegradable, delivering an instant lift and collagen boost.
• Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA): Lasts longer and gives more structural support.
• Polycaprolactone (PCL): Known for the longest duration.

Thread shapes have specific roles:

• Mono Threads: Best for stimulating collagen and tightening skin.
• Cog Threads (Barbed Threads): Provide a more dramatic lifting effect.
• Screw Threads: Add volume and create lift, especially for sunken areas.

The selection of thread type depends on the degree of laxity and patient's goals.

The Procedure and Patient Experience

Nicknamed the "lunchtime facelift," thread lifts involve local anesthesia and a quick insertion of threads under the skin, usually anchored in the deep temporal fascia. After trimming any excess thread, there's no visible sign of the procedure. Minor swelling or tightening sensation is normal, and patients are back to work quickly. Full results emerge over several months as collagen builds up, lasting from six months (PDO) to two years (PLLA or PCL).

Outcomes with thread lifts depend greatly on practitioner skill. When done well, they deliver a subtle, natural enhancement that many appreciate—though some may feel results did not live up to expectations.

Facial Implants: The Permanent Contouring Option

For those seeking a lasting fix, facial implants provide permanent correction for temporal hollowing. These implants, made of silicone or porous polyethylene, sometimes custom-designed, are placed surgically for durable volume and contour.

The Surgical Procedure

Performed under general anesthesia or sedation, temporal implant surgery involves a small incision (usually hidden in the hairline or behind the ear) to place and position the implant above the temporal muscle. The goal is a soft, natural feel blending seamlessly with existing tissue.

Aftercare and Recovery

Recovery is relatively swift, with some swelling and mild pain managed by medication and cold compresses. Head elevation is essential. Most return to work in two to three days, normal activities in one to two weeks, but intensity should be limited for several weeks. Dissolvable sutures are removed after five to ten days, and final results become apparent in about a month.

Choosing between fillers, thread lifts, and implants depends on one's preference for permanence, invasiveness, and tolerance for downtime. Fillers are low-risk and flexible; implants are definitive but require surgery; threads offer a middle path with moderate effects and durability.

Implants vs. Fillers - A Comprehensive Comparison

Factor	Facial Implants	Facial Fillers
Number of Treatments	One-time procedure for permanent results	Requires multiple treatments to maintain results
Permanence	Results are permanent	Results last 6 months to 2 years, temporary
Procedure Length	1 to 3 hours	5 to 10 minutes
Anesthesia	General or IV sedation	Local anesthesia or numbing cream
Recovery Time	1-2 weeks for normal activities, up to 6 weeks for full recovery	Return to work immediately or within hours
Bruising/Swelling	Mild to moderate, for weeks	Minimal, for hours to days
Reversibility	Requires surgery for removal	Certain fillers are reversible with injection

Best Clinics in Korea for Sunken Temples

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for sunken temples:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
DM Plastic Surgery	Personalized 1:1 consultations, scientific analysis, excellent aesthetic sense; surgeries by two board-certified plastic surgeons; medical team composed only of specialists with over 10–20 years of experience; staff are alumni of Yonsei University Hospital; served as head of the Department of Plastic Surgery at Gangnam Severance Hospital of Yonsei University; active members of the Association of Plastic Surgery Medical Doctors	Volume restoration and contour refinement to harmonize temples with the forehead, eyes, and midface; precise fat grafting; temple and forehead lifting techniques; 3D forehead augmentation; paranasal augmentation
Modelo clinic	We don’t follow trends—beauty that maximizes values over time; centered on individuality and tailored to Asian skin and facial structures; restores balance to the upper face in a natural way; individualized plans with results that evolve gracefully over time	Fullface Filler; Contour Botox; Wrinkle Botox; Lifting; Comfort Thermage; Thread Lifting; Baby Filler (under-eye)
Mind Plastic Surgery	Located at Sinnonhyeon Station in Seoul; wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures; experienced medical team; safe and comfortable environment; personalized treatment planning; balanced, natural-looking results aligned with aesthetic goals	[Full Face Fat Grafting](/blog/full-face-fat-grafting-in-korea); Filler treatments; Face Contouring Injections; thread-based lifting procedures

DM Plastic Surgery

DM Plastic Surgery approaches sunken temples with the same philosophy that guides all of its care: personalized 1:1 consultations, scientific analysis, and an excellent aesthetic sense to deliver the best treatment plans for each individual. Surgeries are performed by two board-certified plastic surgeons who specialize in their respective fields, supported by a medical team composed only of specialists with over 10–20 years of experience. The staff are alumni of Yonsei University Hospital and have served as the head of the Department of Plastic Surgery at Gangnam Severance Hospital of Yonsei University, and as active members of the Association of Plastic Surgery Medical Doctors, they strive to be a model in the medical industry.

For temporal hollowing, DM Plastic Surgery offers volume restoration and contour refinement designed to harmonize the temples with the forehead, eyes, and midface. Options include precise fat grafting to restore youthful fullness, as well as temple and forehead lifting techniques to smooth transitions and improve overall balance; these can be complemented by advanced facial contouring such as 3D forehead augmentation or paranasal augmentation when indicated. By aligning technique selection with each patient’s anatomy and goals, the clinic’s dedicated specialists deliver natural-looking correction of sunken temples with an emphasis on proportion and longevity.

Find more about this clinic here: DM Plastic Surgery Website

Modelo clinic

At Modelo Clinic, we don’t follow trends—we help you realize beauty that maximizes your values over time. For concerns like sunken temples, our approach centers on your beautiful individuality, restoring balance to the upper face in a way that looks natural on you and thoughtfully tailored to Asian skin and facial structures.

Depending on your needs, we may recommend Fullface Filler to replenish temple volume with immediate, harmonious contours; Contour Botox to refine facial features for a more defined, balanced look; and Wrinkle Botox to soften nearby fine lines for a smoother frame to the eyes. Skin-firming options such as Lifting, Comfort Thermage, and Thread Lifting can complement volumization by supporting the lateral face, while targeted care like Baby Filler for the under-eye can refresh adjacent areas. Every plan is individualized to achieve results that transcend simple beauty and evolve gracefully over time.

Find more about this clinic here: Modelo clinic Website

Mind Plastic Surgery

Mind Plastic Surgery, located at Sinnonhyeon Station in Seoul, offers a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures delivered by an experienced medical team in a safe and comfortable environment. With personalized treatment planning, the clinic focuses on helping each patient achieve balanced, natural-looking results aligned with their aesthetic goals.

For concerns such as sunken temples, Mind Plastic Surgery provides volume-restoring options including Full Face Fat Grafting, which transfers a patient’s own fat to rejuvenate facial contours, and Filler treatments that add targeted volume for smoother, more harmonious profiles. Complementary options such as Face Contouring Injections and thread-based lifting procedures can further refine the upper-face silhouette, integrating temple correction into a comprehensive anti-aging and facial contouring approach.

Find more about this clinic here: Mind Plastic Surgery Website

The Medical Tourism Journey in South Korea

South Korea stands out globally for aesthetic medicine, offering state-of-the-art procedures, skilled professionals, and streamlined patient services.

Why South Korea? A Global Hub for Aesthetics

Korea is famous for pioneering advanced, minimally invasive techniques, often adopting technology like 3D CT scans and endoscopic surgery years ahead of the West. Surgeons here often specialize, honing their craft on specific procedures for exceptional outcomes.

International patients benefit from comprehensive packages that can include medical tests, consultations, surgery, follow-up care, and even airport transfers or accommodation help.

The Patient's Step-by-Step Guide

The medical tourism process typically follows these steps:

• Initial Research and Virtual Consultation: Patients should look for clinics registered with the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI). Virtual consultations allow sharing photos and medical history to determine candidacy and get pricing.
• Travel and On-Site Evaluation: Arriving a couple of days early allows patients to adjust and undergo in-person consultation, 3D analysis, and tests (bloodwork, ECG, X-ray). This is the best time to clarify costs and expectations.
• The Procedure and Immediate Recovery: Most patients stay 10-14 days post-procedure for healing and follow-ups. This ensures safe travel and post-op care.
• Discharge and Return Home: Before leaving, always get medical clearance, English-language medical records, and inquire about virtual follow-up. These steps help ensure continuity of care back home.

Navigating the Challenges: Risks and Red Flags

South Korea’s efficiency and competitive edge can sometimes bring risks along with rewards. "Ghost surgery"—when a different surgeon performs the operation—has occurred, and the government now requires CCTV cameras in operating rooms for accountability. Always confirm these safeguards.

Another risk is product mismanagement at high-turnover clinics, where pre-filled syringes or leftover products might be used. Always request to see product packaging before injectable procedures.

While many clinics provide multilingual staff or agencies to help with logistics, communication barriers or involvement of unregistered brokers can create confusion or inflated costs. Medical tourists should check agency and clinic credentials thoroughly and know that legal protection may not be as strong as in their home country.

The promise of all-inclusive deals can also mean less personalized care, so patients must be proactive in research and safety.

Cost Analysis: A Medical Tourist's Financial Perspective

Affordability is a big factor for those coming to South Korea for cosmetic treatments, which are often much cheaper than in the West, with no compromise in quality.

The Cost of "Sunken Temples" Procedures in South Korea

Here’s an overview of typical costs:

• Facial Fillers: $200 to $500 per syringe, with 1-3 syringes needed for both temples.
• Thread Lifts: $500 to $1,500 for PDO threads; $1,500 to $3,500 for PLLA or PCL threads. Full-face lifts can reach $5,000, depending on the number of threads used.
• Facial Implants: $2,000 to $8,000, influenced by implant type and customization.

Medical Tourism Cost Comparison

Procedure	South Korea Cost (USD)	USA Cost (USD)	Value Proposition
Facial Fillers	$200 - $500 (per syringe)	$500 - $1,200	Up to 60% savings
Thread Lifts	$500 - $3,500	Typically higher	Significant savings
Facial Implants	$2,000 - $8,000	2 to 3 times higher	50% or more in savings

Beyond the Quote: All-Inclusive Packages and the Long-Term Financial Equation

All-inclusive packages might cover surgeon fees, anesthesia, facility use, and post-op care, but sometimes these are extra. Always clarify what's included—anesthesia alone can add $300-$800, and facility use can be 15-20% of the total.

Long-term, while fillers and threads are initially less expensive, maintenance treatments add up over time. Implants involve a higher one-time investment, but could be more cost-effective in the long run for those wanting a permanent fix. Ultimately, the best option balances upfront costs, desired longevity, and aesthetic goals.

Patient Outcomes: Experiences and Expectations

Patient satisfaction with these procedures is shaped by individual expectations and practitioner skill.

Patient Experiences with Dermal Fillers

Most patients are pleased with fillers for correcting temporal hollowing, citing immediate improvements and a more rested look. However, tenderness and mild chewing pain are sometimes noted, and individuals with a fast metabolism may need more frequent maintenance. Satisfaction remains high when performed by experienced injectors.

Patient Experiences with Thread Lifts

Thread lifts deliver mixed experiences; success hinges on practitioner expertise and patient selection. Some say the results were too subtle, while others value the gentle lift and gradual collagen-driven improvements. Pain and recovery can vary, but many people resume daily life quickly.

Patient Experiences with Facial Implants

Implant patients often report satisfaction with their permanent, transformative results. However, outcomes are tightly linked to the surgeon’s skill and understanding of facial balance. Case studies show poor technique can worsen symmetry, underscoring the critical role the provider plays.

Conclusion

For sunken temples, the single most important factor in a successful outcome is finding a truly skilled, experienced practitioner. Regardless of procedure, great results depend on technical proficiency and aesthetic judgment. Thorough research and careful provider selection lead to the best—and safest—aesthetic results.

References

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, ... (list truncated for brevity)