Table of contents

• Detailed Medical Procedures: "Dark Circle Injection"
• Best Clinics in Korea for Undereye Hollowness
• The Process of Getting "Dark Circle Injections" in South Korea
• Costs Associated with "Dark Circle Injections" in South Korea and Global Comparison
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes
• 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!

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Under-eye hollowness—a frequent aesthetic concern—appears as a noticeable depression or indentation between the lower eyelid and the upper cheek. This depressed area can make a person look perpetually tired, even if they're well-rested. Because the skin here is especially thin and lacks much underlying fat, shadows are easily cast, often exaggerating the “fatigued” appearance.

Common Pseudonyms and Related Terms

Under-eye hollowness goes by many names, including "sunken eyes," "under-eye hollows," and "tear trough hollows." In clinical settings, the term "tear trough deformity" is most commonly used. Depressions beside the central part of this area are sometimes called the "palpebromalar groove," "nasojugal groove," or "lid-cheek junction." Other related hollows in the lower eyelid area include the orbital rim hollow, eyelid crease hollow, and zygomatic hollow.

Causes of Under-Eye Hollowness

There are several causes of under-eye hollowness. Genetics play a big role, making some people more likely to develop this feature at any age—even if they’re young. Sometimes, this can be due to congenital or age-related maxillary hypoplasia, which is when the upper jawbone is underdeveloped. This highlights that under-eye hollowness can be rooted in facial structure, not just lifestyle or aging.

As we age, attachments of periorbital tissues change, the eye can descend slightly in its socket, and the infraorbital fat might shift forward. Loss of soft tissue and bone support adds to the deepening of the tear trough area, making hollowness more noticeable over time.

Lifestyle factors can also make under-eye hollowness worse. Chronic fatigue, not getting enough sleep, dehydration, sun exposure, and eye strain commonly show up first in this region. Allergies may cause inflammation, further contributing to dark circles.

A thorough consultation—with flash photography and assessment of overall mid-cheek volume—helps professionals figure out whether the problem is true hollowness, a structural issue, or caused by volume loss elsewhere. Sometimes, improving the adjacent mid-cheek region can make a significant difference.

Detailed Medical Procedures: "Dark Circle Injection"

"Dark Circle Injection" refers to several non-surgical cosmetic options to treat under-eye hollowness and dark circles. The leading solutions include Hyaluronic Acid (HA) fillers, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections, and occasionally Poly-L-Lactic Acid (Sculptra) or fat grafting.

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers

HA fillers are a go-to for non-surgical under-eye treatments. Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring molecule in skin that deeply hydrates and adds volume.

How They Work

• Volume Restoration: HA fillers refill lost space in the under-eye region, smoothing the tear trough for a more even transition between eyelid and cheek.
• Skin Texture and Hydration: Because HA holds a lot of water, it plumps the skin and creates a smooth, radiant look.
• Shadow Reduction: By filling the depression, HA fillers reduce shadows that make dark circles worse.
• Structural Support: Lifts sagging skin and reduces bags.
• Indirect Collagen Stimulation: Some types can nudge the body into making more collagen.
• Suitability: Softer HA fillers are ideal for this delicate area, moving naturally with facial expressions.

Popular Brands

Restylane-L and Juvederm Volbella are commonly used; Restylane-L spreads smoothly while Juvederm Volbella’s creamy texture helps minimize swelling. Belotero is preferred by some to avoid the Tyndall effect (a bluish tinge), while Restylane Refyne works well for subtle hollows. Thicker fillers like Restylane Lyft are generally reserved for volumizing larger cheek areas.

What the Procedure Is Like

Before treatment, patients are advised to eat and stay hydrated. Numbing cream is applied about 30 minutes before the injection. A board-certified professional uses either a fine needle or a blunt-tip cannula. Cannulas lower the chance of bruising, bleeding, pain, and vascular occlusion. The provider places the filler in small, careful deposits for a natural look. The process usually takes less than an hour.

Results, Longevity, and Recovery

Improvements are often visible immediately, with best results appearing within a week. HA fillers last around 6–9 months under the eye, although molecules may persist up to 18 months in less-mobile areas. Downtime is minimal; swelling or redness usually disappears in a few days. Bruising is possible but typically fades quickly.

Potential Risks

While generally safe, risks include temporary soreness, swelling, and bruising. More severe issues, like irregular contours, persistent edema, hypersensitivity, or filler migration, are rarer but possible. The Tyndall effect occurs if the filler is injected too close to the surface. The most serious—though rare—risk is vascular occlusion, which can lead to skin necrosis or blindness if not rapidly treated with hyaluronidase. Selecting an experienced provider is critical for safety and good results.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

PRP injections use the patient’s own blood plasma, packed with growth factors, to stimulate collagen, elastin, and tissue regeneration under the eyes.

How They Work

Following a blood draw, platelets are concentrated and injected into the under-eye area. This boosts the body’s own healing processes—thickening skin, lifting hollows, and improving texture. Increased circulation can diminish dark pigmentation. Since PRP uses the patient's own plasma, allergic reactions are avoided.

The Procedure

A small blood sample is drawn and spun in a centrifuge. The PRP is then injected where needed.

Results, Longevity, and Safety

Gradual improvements start to appear over several weeks, with many patients enjoying benefits for up to 18 months. The natural and safe profile of PRP—using the patient’s own body—makes it a popular choice with minimal risk.

Fat Grafting (Fat Transfer)

Fat grafting involves transferring the patient’s own fat from areas such as the abdomen to the under-eye region.

How It Works

• Volume Restoration: The fat fills out the hollow regions.
• Skin Quality: Fat comes with stem cells and growth factors, encouraging collagen production and improving thickness.
• Natural Origin: Uses your own tissue for a seamless, natural look.

Procedure Details

Fat is harvested from a donor site, refined, and then gently injected into the under-eye hollows using a cannula. Local anesthesia and light sedation may be used. The process is typically outpatient.

Results, Longevity, and Recovery

Results look natural and last for many years, often permanently—though some fat re-absorption occurs. Recovery involves some swelling and bruising for a week or two; the final look settles after several weeks to months.

Comparing Treatment Choices

HA fillers bring instant but temporary results with the option for reversal; PRP stimulates the body’s repair mechanisms for long-term improvement; fat grafting is a permanent solution but involves more recovery and potential for unevenness. Patients should weigh their need for speed, reversibility, and permanence in making their decision.

Best Clinics in Korea for Undereye Hollowness

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for undereye hollowness:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
D.A Plastic Surgery Clinic Website	DA Plastic Surgery Clinic (D.A), located at Gangnam Station, is a comprehensive aesthetic center offering advanced surgical and non-surgical procedures delivered by skilled surgeons and dedicated staff in a safe, comfortable setting. With a full spectrum of eye, lifting, facial contouring, skin, and body treatments, the clinic tailors plans to enhance natural beauty and facial harmony—making it an outstanding choice for addressing undereye hollowness through precise periorbital care and supportive rejuvenation strategies.	- Eye-area expertise for balanced undereye aesthetics: Double Eyelid Surgery, Ptosis Correction, and Canthoplasty provide precise control over eyelid shape and eye corner position, helping harmonize the periorbital area around the tear trough. - Midface support and lift options that complement hollowness care: Absolute Lifting, Minimal Incision Lifting, Elasticum Lifting, and Facial Contouring Lifting offer personalized elevation and support that can reduce the appearance of shadowing under the eyes. - Skin quality and collagen-boosting technologies: Skin Elasticity Treatment, Ulthera Tuner, Thermage FLX, and Thread Lifting improve firmness and structure for a smoother transition from lower eyelid to cheek. - Facial contouring synergy for natural results: Shaping V-line surgery, Turning Zygoma Reduction, Genioplasty, and Revision Facial Contouring refine cheek–jaw relationships, enhancing midface volume support that influences undereye contours. - Thoughtful revision capability: Expertise in corrective procedures (e.g., Revision Facial Contouring and Revision Rhinoplasty) reflects meticulous planning and detail-oriented care—vital for subtle undereye improvements. - Personalised, safety-focused care: Individualized treatment planning by a skilled team ensures that solutions for undereye concerns align with overall facial balance and patient goals. - Convenient, central location: Situated at Gangnam Station for easy access and continuity of care.
Re and Re Plastic Surgery Website	Re and Re Plastic Surgery is a renowned plastic surgery clinic in Nonhyeon with 15 years of experience and over 20,000 successful procedures across eyes, nose, and breast surgeries. With deep expertise in delicate eye-area operations and a full suite of volume-restoring and skin-quality treatments, the clinic stands out as the best destination in Korea for addressing undereye hollowness—prioritizing natural, harmonious results that refresh the entire periorbital region.	- Proven eye-area expertise: Extensive experience in Double Eyelid Surgery, Ptosis Correction, and Epicanthoplasty ensures a precise understanding of periorbital anatomy—critical for safe, natural tear-trough correction. - Comprehensive volume solutions: Facial Fat Grafting and dermal Fillers provide tailored options to restore under-eye volume, from subtle refinements to more durable correction. - Skin quality enhancement: Laser Skin Resurfacing can improve fine lines and texture around the lower eyelids, complementing volume restoration for smoother, more youthful results. - Track record you can trust: 15 years of focused practice with over 20,000 successful procedures underscores consistent outcomes and refined surgical judgment. - Harmonized facial aesthetics: Expertise across Rhinoplasty and Chin Augmentation supports holistic planning, ensuring under-eye improvements blend seamlessly with overall facial balance. - Flexible, patient-centered pathways: From non-surgical injectables to surgical fat transfer and adjunct eyelid procedures, the clinic offers multiple routes to address varied causes of undereye hollowness. - Natural-looking results: Emphasis on subtle enhancement and proportionality helps avoid overfilled or “tired” appearances, aiming for a refreshed but unoperated look. - Convenient Nonhyeon location: A well-established destination in Seoul’s aesthetic hub for both local and international patients seeking specialized eye-area care.
Melab Clinic Website	Melab Clinic in Cheongdam is a comprehensive destination for medical and aesthetic care, combining advanced technologies with experienced medical professionals to deliver personalized treatments across aesthetics, body contouring, regenerative medicine, skin care, and intimate health. With a strong focus on individualized plans and outcomes, the clinic offers a thoughtful mix of non-surgical and minimally invasive modalities—such as dermal fillers, HIFU, laser therapy, microneedling, PRP, chemical peeling, and HydraFacial—ensuring safe, effective, and satisfying results for delicate concerns like undereye hollowness.	- Full spectrum of undereye solutions: Dermal fillers to restore lost volume, HIFU for gentle tightening, laser therapy for skin refinement, microneedling to boost collagen, and PRP for regenerative support. - Tailored treatment plans: Personalized strategies designed around each patient’s anatomy, degree of hollowness, skin quality, and goals. - Minimally invasive approach: Emphasis on treatments with minimal downtime and natural-looking results in the periorbital area. - Advanced technology with clinical expertise: Skilled practitioners using cutting-edge devices and protocols that prioritize safety and efficacy. - Synergistic care: Ability to combine modalities (e.g., fillers with collagen-stimulating treatments) for comprehensive eye-area rejuvenation. - Skin-quality optimization: Supportive treatments like HydraFacial and carefully selected chemical peels to enhance overall brightness and texture when appropriate. - Consistent outcomes and patient satisfaction: A care model centered on safety, efficacy, and patient satisfaction, from consultation through follow-up. - Prime Cheongdam location: A trusted, accessible setting for premium aesthetic care tailored to sensitive areas such as the under eyes.

D.A Plastic Surgery Clinic

DA Plastic Surgery Clinic (D.A), located at Gangnam Station, is a comprehensive aesthetic center offering advanced surgical and non-surgical procedures delivered by skilled surgeons and dedicated staff in a safe, comfortable setting. With a full spectrum of eye, lifting, facial contouring, skin, and body treatments, the clinic tailors plans to enhance natural beauty and facial harmony—making it an outstanding choice for addressing undereye hollowness through precise periorbital care and supportive rejuvenation strategies.

• Eye-area expertise for balanced undereye aesthetics: Double Eyelid Surgery, Ptosis Correction, and Canthoplasty provide precise control over eyelid shape and eye corner position, helping harmonize the periorbital area around the tear trough.
• Midface support and lift options that complement hollowness care: Absolute Lifting, Minimal Incision Lifting, Elasticum Lifting, and Facial Contouring Lifting offer personalized elevation and support that can reduce the appearance of shadowing under the eyes.
• Skin quality and collagen-boosting technologies: Skin Elasticity Treatment, Ulthera Tuner, Thermage FLX, and Thread Lifting improve firmness and structure for a smoother transition from lower eyelid to cheek.
• Facial contouring synergy for natural results: Shaping V-line surgery, Turning Zygoma Reduction, Genioplasty, and Revision Facial Contouring refine cheek–jaw relationships, enhancing midface volume support that influences undereye contours.
• Thoughtful revision capability: Expertise in corrective procedures (e.g., Revision Facial Contouring and Revision Rhinoplasty) reflects meticulous planning and detail-oriented care—vital for subtle undereye improvements.
• Personalized, safety-focused care: Individualized treatment planning by a skilled team ensures that solutions for undereye concerns align with overall facial balance and patient goals.
• Convenient, central location: Situated at Gangnam Station for easy access and continuity of care.

Find more about this clinic here: D.A Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Re and Re Plastic Surgery

Re and Re Plastic Surgery is a renowned plastic surgery clinic in Nonhyeon with 15 years of experience and over 20,000 successful procedures across eyes, nose, and breast surgeries. With deep expertise in delicate eye-area operations and a full suite of volume-restoring and skin-quality treatments, the clinic stands out as the best destination in Korea for addressing undereye hollowness—prioritizing natural, harmonious results that refresh the entire periorbital region.

• Proven eye-area expertise: Extensive experience in Double Eyelid Surgery, Ptosis Correction, and Epicanthoplasty ensures a precise understanding of periorbital anatomy—critical for safe, natural tear-trough correction.
• Comprehensive volume solutions: Facial Fat Grafting and dermal Fillers provide tailored options to restore under-eye volume, from subtle refinements to more durable correction.
• Skin quality enhancement: Laser Skin Resurfacing can improve fine lines and texture around the lower eyelids, complementing volume restoration for smoother, more youthful results.
• Track record you can trust: 15 years of focused practice with over 20,000 successful procedures underscores consistent outcomes and refined surgical judgment.
• Harmonized facial aesthetics: Expertise across Rhinoplasty and Chin Augmentation supports holistic planning, ensuring under-eye improvements blend seamlessly with overall facial balance.
• Flexible, patient-centered pathways: From non-surgical injectables to surgical fat transfer and adjunct eyelid procedures, the clinic offers multiple routes to address varied causes of undereye hollowness.
• Natural-looking results: Emphasis on subtle enhancement and proportionality helps avoid overfilled or “tired” appearances, aiming for a refreshed but unoperated look.
• Convenient Nonhyeon location: A well-established destination in Seoul’s aesthetic hub for both local and international patients seeking specialized eye-area care.

Find more about this clinic here: Re and Re Plastic Surgery Website

Melab Clinic

Melab Clinic in Cheongdam is a comprehensive destination for medical and aesthetic care, combining advanced technologies with experienced medical professionals to deliver personalized treatments across aesthetics, body contouring, regenerative medicine, skin care, and intimate health. With a strong focus on individualized plans and outcomes, the clinic offers a thoughtful mix of non-surgical and minimally invasive modalities—such as dermal fillers, HIFU, laser therapy, microneedling, PRP, chemical peeling, and HydraFacial—ensuring safe, effective, and satisfying results for delicate concerns like undereye hollowness.

• Full spectrum of undereye solutions: Dermal fillers to restore lost volume, HIFU for gentle tightening, laser therapy for skin refinement, microneedling to boost collagen, and PRP for regenerative support.
• Tailored treatment plans: Personalized strategies designed around each patient’s anatomy, degree of hollowness, skin quality, and goals.
• Minimally invasive approach: Emphasis on treatments with minimal downtime and natural-looking results in the periorbital area.
• Advanced technology with clinical expertise: Skilled practitioners using cutting-edge devices and protocols that prioritize safety and efficacy.
• Synergistic care: Ability to combine modalities (e.g., fillers with collagen-stimulating treatments) for comprehensive eye-area rejuvenation.
• Skin-quality optimization: Supportive treatments like HydraFacial and carefully selected chemical peels to enhance overall brightness and texture when appropriate.
• Consistent outcomes and patient satisfaction: A care model centered on safety, efficacy, and patient satisfaction, from consultation through follow-up.
• Prime Cheongdam location: A trusted, accessible setting for premium aesthetic care tailored to sensitive areas such as the under eyes.

Find more about this clinic here: Melab Clinic Website

The Process of Getting "Dark Circle Injections" in South Korea

South Korea is a top destination for medical tourists seeking cosmetic treatments. The country is known for its advanced aesthetic techniques, modern clinics, and global expertise, with competitive pricing and well-organized support for overseas visitors.

Step-by-Step Guide for Medical Tourists

• Initial Consultation: Most journeys start with a virtual consult. Patients discuss goals and receive personalized procedure suggestions and cost estimates.
• Travel Preparation: Book flights to Seoul’s Incheon International Airport and choose accommodation near the clinic. Many clinics help with visas, health documentation, and insurance.
• Arrival and In-Person Consultation: Some clinics provide airport pickup and a patient orientation. Pre-treatment health checks are conducted before a detailed in-person visit with the provider, where risks, expectations, and aftercare are discussed.
• Treatment and Aftercare: Procedures are performed in modern, accredited clinics. For "dark circle injections," topical numbing is provided and aftercare may include daily checks, dressing changes, and complementary therapies to reduce swelling.
• Follow-up and Departure: Medical clearance and aftercare instructions are given before leaving Korea. Virtual follow-up with your provider is usually available after returning home.

Recommended Recovery Stays

Recovery time varies:

• Eyelid Surgery: 5–7 days
• Rhinoplasty: 7–10 days
• Facial Contouring: 10–14 days
• Breast Augmentation: 7–10 days
• Liposuction: 5–8 days
• Revision Surgery: 10–14 days

While "dark circle injections" are quick procedures, waiting for swelling to subside—typically 7–10 days—before flying home is recommended for comfort and best results.

Costs Associated with "Dark Circle Injections" in South Korea and Global Comparison

South Korea is often more affordable than Western nations while maintaining high medical standards. Here’s a closer look at procedure prices and how they stack up abroad:

Cost Overview

• HA Fillers: ₩300,000–₩1,000,000 KRW ($250–$850 USD) per session.
• PRP Injections: ₩250,000–₩800,000 ($300–$700 USD) per session. Multiple sessions may be recommended.
• Fat Grafting: $850–$1,700 USD for under-eye treatment; facial fat transfer averages around $2,540 USD.

International Comparison Table

Procedure Type	South Korea (USD)	USA (USD)	Western Europe (USD)	Thailand (USD)	Turkey (USD)	UK (USD)	Germany (USD)
HA Fillers (per session)	$150 – $850	$600 – $1,500	$500 – $900	N/A	$200 – $600	N/A	N/A
PRP (per session)	$250 – $1,000	$600+	N/A	$275 – $2,774	$150+	N/A	N/A
Fat Grafting	$792 – $4,431	$4,500 – $10,000	$5,000 – $10,500	$5,280+	$1,480 – $7,250	$7,500+	$5,000 – $10,000

South Korea’s prices are often much lower than in the US, Western Europe, or the UK, making it an attractive option for medical travelers, though other countries like Turkey offer lower-cost alternatives in some areas.

What Affects the Costs?

• Provider Experience: Top surgeons or clinics command higher fees.
• Clinic Area: Clinics in premium neighborhoods, like Gangnam, charge more.
• Treatment Details: Filler brand/complexity, additional services, or number of sessions add to costs.
• Package Deals: Accommodation, travel, and aftercare kits might be bundled.
• Discounts: Upfront payment, promotional offers, or participation in before-and-after showcases may reduce costs.

Balancing Value with Quality

While South Korea offers top value and expertise, the total price should factor in travel, lodging, and living expenses. Prioritizing proven provider experience and clinic reputation is crucial for safety and results.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes

Most patients report significant improvements and feel very satisfied after "Dark Circle Injection" procedures. These treatments address the root causes—restoring lost volume and smoothing contours.

How "Dark Circle Injections" Help

• Reduced Hollowness and Dark Circles: Fillers and fat grafts plump out depressed areas and brighten skin tone, while PRP stimulates healing and regeneration.
• Refreshed Look: Patients frequently look more rested and awake post-treatment.
• Better Skin Quality: HA fillers hydrate, fat grafts bring regenerative factors, and PRP triggers collagen production for firmer, more elastic skin.
• Smoother Fine Lines: Treatments smooth wrinkles and improve texture around the eyes.

Patient Feedback

Most patients are delighted with results—often noting how much healthier and more vibrant they look. Fat transfer satisfaction rates are particularly high. Many describe the boost in self-confidence and quality of life after treatment.

What Patients Should Keep in Mind

• Set Realistic Expectations: Fillers can't fix excess skin or pigmentation. Subtle, gradual improvement is the goal—avoiding overfilling is important.
• Choose an Expert: The under-eye area is challenging and requires a highly trained professional for best outcomes and to avoid rare but serious complications.
• Be Aware of Side Effects: Most are minor, like swelling or bruising, but understanding more severe risks (such as the Tyndall effect or vascular occlusion) is important.

Conclusion

Under-eye hollowness—often called "tear trough indentation"—can make anyone look tired, due to genetics, aging, or lifestyle factors. "Dark Circle Injections," including Hyaluronic Acid fillers, PRP, and Fat Grafting, offer effective, personalized solutions with high satisfaction rates and minimal downtime. South Korea shines as a destination for these treatments, blending world-class care with competitive pricing and comprehensive support. To achieve safe, natural-looking results, careful provider selection and clear, realistic expectations are essential.

References

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