Table of contents

• Canthoplasty: A Surgical Approach to Lower Eyelid Rejuvenation
• Laser Canthoplasty: An Advanced Technique
• Best Clinics in Korea for Visible Skin Wrinkles And Fine Lines In The Lower Eyelid Area
• Pursuing Canthoplasty and Laser Canthoplasty in South Korea
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Addressing Lower Eyelid Wrinkles
• Conclusion
• References

Several terms describe wrinkles and fine lines in the lower eyelid area. Dennie-Morgan (DM) lines—also called DM folds, Dennie folds, Morgan folds, or infraorbital folds—are noticeable skin creases beneath the lower eyelid. These lines often appear in children with eczema or allergies but can also become more visible with age in adults. The exact cause of DM lines isn’t fully understood, but factors like skin edema and spasms in the Muller eyelid muscle due to reduced blood flow may play a role. Another general term is under-eye wrinkles or lines, which covers any wrinkles beneath the lower eyelid. These are often classified as dynamic wrinkles, caused by repeated muscle movements, or static wrinkles, which remain even when the face is at rest due to loss of skin elasticity and collagen. Crow's feet, also known as laugh lines, mainly appear at the outer corners of the eyes but can extend toward the lower eyelid, especially when smiling or squinting. Although called laugh lines, these wrinkles are influenced not only by facial expressions but also by sun exposure and natural aging. Allergy lines are another type of crease under the eyes caused by skin thickening from repeated irritation and swelling linked to allergies. These differ from age-related wrinkles and usually require treating the underlying allergy for effective management.

The development of these visible aging signs is complex. Natural aging reduces collagen and elastin production—two proteins essential for skin firmness and elasticity. This reduction makes skin thinner, less resilient, and more prone to sagging and wrinkles. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight and tanning beds is a major external factor speeding up skin aging. UV rays damage collagen and elastin fibers, causing photoaging and premature wrinkles. Repeated facial expressions like smiling, squinting, and frowning cause muscle contractions that form fine lines over time. As skin loses elasticity, these lines can become permanent. Lifestyle habits such as smoking and pollution exposure also accelerate aging by increasing oxidative stress and reducing skin blood flow. Genetics influence when and how wrinkles appear. Additionally, dehydration and dry skin make fine lines more noticeable, while poor sleep habits can break down collagen. Even sleeping positions, like pressing the face against a pillow, can contribute to wrinkles around the eyes. Lastly, a diet lacking vitamins and antioxidants can harm skin health and speed up aging.

Canthoplasty: A Surgical Approach to Lower Eyelid Rejuvenation

For those wanting a more lasting and noticeable improvement in their lower eyelids, surgical options like canthoplasty offer a solution. Canthoplasty is a surgery that reconstructs or reshapes the canthus—the outer corner where the upper and lower eyelids meet. This procedure tightens the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues supporting the eyelid.

There are different types of canthoplasty. Lateral canthoplasty targets the outer canthus, epi-canthoplasty focuses on the inner corner, and medial canthoplasty also addresses the inner corner. By tightening the lower eyelid’s support structures, canthoplasty reduces sagging and improves the eye’s contour. This structural change can indirectly lessen fine lines worsened by eyelid laxity. The surgery effectively corrects drooping lower eyelids and creates a more attractive upward tilt at the outer eye corners. However, canthoplasty mainly improves eyelid structure and position rather than directly removing or smoothing skin wrinkles. Patients should have realistic expectations about how much it will reduce fine lines.

It’s important to distinguish canthoplasty from canthopexy, a related procedure. Canthoplasty involves cutting and repositioning the canthal tendon for more significant reshaping, while canthopexy is less invasive, tightening and reinforcing the existing tendon without cutting. Canthopexy suits those with mild to moderate eyelid laxity seeking subtle enhancement. Canthoplasty is mainly indicated for tightening sagging lower eyelids, correcting laxity from aging, trauma, or prior surgery, and improving eye appearance. These changes can indirectly improve wrinkles caused by these issues. Canthoplasty can also specifically target visible skin wrinkles and fine lines linked to lower eyelid malposition.

Laser Canthoplasty: An Advanced Technique

Laser canthoplasty is a modern variation that uses laser technology to make precise incisions at the lateral canthus. This method offers several benefits over traditional surgery.

Laser precision allows surgeons to adjust the eye corner’s angle and position very accurately, resulting in controlled reshaping. The laser’s thermal energy cauterizes tissues as it cuts, greatly reducing bleeding. It also minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Less bleeding and tissue trauma can lead to faster healing and recovery. Additionally, precise incisions and reduced trauma may cause less noticeable scarring compared to conventional methods.

While laser canthoplasty primarily reshapes the eye and addresses eyelid laxity, the tightening effect on nearby skin and possible skin ablation from certain lasers might help reduce fine lines around the outer eye corner. However, dedicated laser resurfacing treatments are generally more effective for significant wrinkle reduction. So, while laser canthoplasty may combine eye reshaping with subtle skin rejuvenation better than traditional canthoplasty, patients should carefully consider if it meets their wrinkle-reduction goals.

Best Clinics in Korea for Visible Skin Wrinkles And Fine Lines In The Lower Eyelid Area

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for visible skin wrinkles and fine lines in the lower eyelid area:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	World-class cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in purpose-designed facilities; led by renowned surgeons Dr. Kim, Dr. Jeong, and Dr. Lee; personalized, advanced care; focus on safety, innovation, and patient satisfaction; recognized academic authority and leadership; comprehensive pre- and post-op care; track record in revision and complex cases	Dr. Kim’s 3D implant techniques, Dr. Jeong’s global surgical education; advanced minimally invasive eyelid rejuvenation; customized facial harmony approaches; combination of fillers, lasers, and blepharoplasty for lower eyelid wrinkles and fine lines
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Led by Dr. Park Byung-Chan with 15+ years of eye surgery experience; personalized approach to double eyelid, incision, and thickness; one-on-one expert care; premier safety protocols (anesthesiologists, CCTV, monitoring); post-op care center; multi-award winning; patient-centered dedication	Customized eyelid surgeries for natural, harmonious results; advanced techniques for immediate and beautiful eye outcomes; systematic aftercare for optimal healing and support
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic	Patient-focused, holistic care; expert team including a distinguished female surgeon; tailored plans based on facial anatomy and goals; minimally invasive, advanced treatments; full spectrum of eye and lid services (including revisions); comprehensive pre- and post-surgical care	Customized lower eyelid rejuvenation; under-eye surgery and middle-aged eye solutions; cutting-edge, minimal downtime procedures; complex revision case management

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery, located in the vibrant Garosu-gil district of Gangnam, Seoul, stands as a benchmark for world-class cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. The clinic occupies four purpose-designed floors, offering a comprehensive patient journey from the initial consultation to post-operative care, all in an environment that prioritizes safety, innovation, and patient satisfaction. THEPLUS is distinguished by its team of leading surgeons—Dr. Kim, Dr. Jeong, and Dr. Lee—whose expertise and commitment to ongoing research and education have earned them recognition from peers and medical societies worldwide. This team’s award-winning work, including Dr. Kim’s seminal research in 3D implants and Dr. Jeong’s contributions to global surgical education as the President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, reflects the clinic’s guiding principle: achieving harmonious and natural beauty through personalized, advanced care. At THEPLUS, patients benefit not only from state-of-the-art facilities and innovative techniques but also from the thoughtful approach of surgeons who value balanced artistry and individual aesthetic goals—a philosophy that makes THEPLUS the premier destination for addressing visible skin wrinkles and fine lines in the lower eyelid area.

Why THEPLUS Plastic Surgery is the leading clinic for treating visible skin wrinkles and fine lines in the lower eyelid area:

• World-Renowned Surgeons: Under the expert leadership of board-certified specialists such as Dr. Kim (a pioneer in facial contouring and 3D implant research) and Dr. Jeong (current President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons), THEPLUS ensures every eyelid rejuvenation procedure is performed with meticulous precision and artistic judgement.
• Cutting-Edge Techniques: Surgeons at THEPLUS are continuously updating their methods via participation in global symposiums and research, ensuring the use of the most advanced, minimally invasive techniques to reduce wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes with natural, long-lasting results.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Each patient receives a customized approach that balances structural enhancement with preservation of facial harmony, perfectly aligning with Dr. Kim’s philosophy that beauty lies in maintaining and highlighting each client’s unique features.
• Academic Excellence and Industry Leadership: THEPLUS surgeons regularly educate other medical professionals through lectures, publications, and live surgical demonstrations, underscoring their authority in facial aging and eyelid surgery.
• Holistic, Comprehensive Care: From thorough pre-operative skin assessments to tailored post-surgical dermatology and skincare regimens—including fillers, laser rejuvenation, and advanced blepharoplasty techniques—patients enjoy seamless support at every step.
• Culture of Safety: With a multi-disciplinary team each possessing over a decade of experience, THEPLUS upholds the highest safety standards, earning patient trust for delicate procedures involving the sensitive eye area.
• Track Record of Success: Their dedication to function and beauty, especially in challenging revision cases, has made THEPLUS a clinic of choice for clients expecting superior outcomes for lower eyelid rejuvenation.

With its unique synergy of surgical mastery, innovation, and commitment to natural facial harmony, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery is distinctly positioned as Korea’s top destination for the effective treatment of visible skin wrinkles and fine lines in the lower eyelid region.

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

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Made Young Plastic Surgery stands out as Korea's premier clinic for addressing visible skin wrinkles and fine lines in the lower eyelid area, led by renowned specialist Dr. Park Byung-Chan, who brings over 15 years of exclusive expertise in eye surgery. The clinic is celebrated for crafting exceptionally natural and beautiful eye results, even immediately after surgery, thanks to its personalized approach that customizes every detail, from incision lines to double eyelid height and eyelid thickness, for an effortlessly harmonious appearance. Patients benefit from direct consultation and diagnosis with Made Young’s expert medical team, each averaging more than 15 years of clinical experience, ensuring trustworthy and meticulous care every step of the way. With an outstanding safety system featuring board-certified anesthesiologists, one-on-one monitoring, emergency cross-check protocols, and comprehensive CCTV transparency, safety and patient reassurance are at the core of every procedure. Aftercare is equally thorough, featuring a dedicated center for systematic post-procedure management and support. These high standards are reflected in the clinic’s many accolades, including the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and first place in Korea Customer Satisfaction, as well as official recognition from leading medical societies. Situated in Seoul’s prestigious Gangnam district, Made Young Plastic Surgery combines unparalleled expertise, patient-centered dedication, and state-of-the-art techniques to deliver the optimal solution for those seeking rejuvenation of the lower eyelid—restoring youthfulness and vitality while prioritizing each patient’s natural beauty and well-being.

You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic stands at the forefront of aesthetic medicine in Korea, offering a holistic approach to cosmetic care that places patient well-being and individual needs above all else. Renowned for its sincerity, precision, and dedication to personalized treatments, the clinic is led by a team of highly skilled specialists, including a distinguished female plastic surgeon recognized for her expertise in eye and facial rejuvenation. For those concerned about visible skin wrinkles and fine lines in the lower eyelid area, Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic delivers comprehensive solutions, blending empathy, advanced techniques, and a commitment to transformative results.

Why Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic is the best choice for treating visible skin wrinkles and fine lines in the lower eyelid area:

• Customized treatment plans are meticulously tailored to suit each patient’s unique facial anatomy, aesthetic goals, and skin condition.
• Home to expert plastic surgeons, particularly those with proven results in eye and lower eyelid rejuvenation procedures.
• Utilizes cutting-edge medical technology and advanced, minimally invasive techniques to address fine lines and sagging while minimizing downtime.
• Offers a full spectrum of eye plastic surgery services, including under-eye surgery, middle aged eye surgery, and revision treatments for complex cases.
• Adopts a highly patient-centric approach, with thorough pre-surgical evaluation and personalized follow-up care.
• Delivers natural, balanced, and rejuvenated results designed to restore youthful vitality to the lower eyelid area.
• Provides comprehensive support and guidance throughout the entire transformation journey, ensuring patient confidence, safety, and satisfaction.

Patients choosing Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic can trust that their concerns about visible wrinkles and fine lines in the lower eyelid are in experienced, caring hands, supported by state-of-the-art expertise and a deep commitment to individualized aesthetic excellence.

You can check out their website here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Pursuing Canthoplasty and Laser Canthoplasty in South Korea

South Korea is a leading global destination for cosmetic surgery, known for advanced techniques and skilled surgeons, especially in eye procedures. International patients interested in canthoplasty or laser canthoplasty usually follow several steps.

The process often starts with online research to find specialized clinics and read patient reviews. Checking for international accreditations and references from other international patients is recommended. Many Korean clinics offer virtual consultations to discuss goals and assess candidacy. After choosing a clinic, patients arrange travel, including flights, accommodation, and visas. Upon arrival, an in-person consultation with the surgeon includes a detailed exam, discussion of desired outcomes, and pre-operative tests. Surgery is usually done under local anesthesia with sedation and lasts 30 minutes to two hours, depending on complexity. Post-surgery, patients stay in recovery for one to two hours. A longer stay in South Korea—often seven to eight days—is advised for healing and stitch removal. Some clinics provide recovery accommodations nearby. Before leaving, patients receive detailed post-op care instructions, which are vital for proper healing at home.

Choosing South Korea offers several advantages. The country is known for advanced cosmetic surgery and expert eye surgeons. Korean plastic surgeons undergo rigorous training and are skilled at achieving natural-looking results. Medical facilities are state-of-the-art, with the latest laser technologies and high hygiene standards. Costs for canthoplasty and laser canthoplasty in South Korea are generally lower than in countries like the USA, UK, and Spain. The table below compares average canthoplasty costs internationally:

Country	Average Cost (USD)
South Korea	$1,000 - $3,000
USA	~$4,000
UK	~$7,200
Spain	~$6,000
Australia	~$3,700

Many South Korean clinics catering to international patients also provide language support and help with accommodation. There is often a focus on natural-looking results that suit Asian aesthetic preferences, appealing to those wanting subtle rejuvenation rather than dramatic changes.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Addressing Lower Eyelid Wrinkles

Patient reviews provide useful insights into canthoplasty and laser canthoplasty outcomes for lower eyelid concerns. Many report satisfaction, noting a younger, refreshed, and more alert look. Common improvements include tighter eyelids, less sagging, and a more almond-shaped eye. Some patients feel more confident and comfortable without makeup.

Recovery experiences vary. Some have minimal downtime and bruising, while others experience swelling and bruising lasting weeks. Surgeon skill and artistry are key to good results. Many patients undergo canthoplasty alongside other procedures like blepharoplasty or fat transfer, making it hard to isolate canthoplasty’s specific effects on wrinkles.

Regarding wrinkle improvement, canthoplasty mainly reshapes the eye and tightens eyelid laxity, which may mildly reduce wrinkles by tightening surrounding skin. Laser canthoplasty might offer slightly better fine line improvement due to skin ablation. Still, wrinkle reduction is usually a secondary benefit. Patients seeking significant wrinkle improvement should consider additional treatments like laser resurfacing or dermal fillers.

Many patients report positive effects on appearance and self-confidence after canthoplasty. Eye shape changes can greatly enhance perceived youthfulness and attractiveness. Common post-op experiences include swelling, bruising, and discomfort, usually resolving in one to two weeks. Risks include dry eyes, temporary difficulty closing eyes, infection, and scarring, though serious complications are rare. Full healing and final results may take months. Satisfaction depends on achieving desired eye shape, smooth recovery, and minimal complications. Dissatisfaction often stems from unrealistic expectations about wrinkle reduction, asymmetry during healing, or unexpected side effects.

Conclusion

Canthoplasty and laser canthoplasty primarily reshape the eye’s outer corner and address eyelid laxity, offering some indirect improvement in lower eyelid wrinkles through skin tightening. Laser canthoplasty may provide a slightly enhanced effect on fine lines due to laser technology. Patients should have realistic expectations and consult experienced surgeons to understand potential outcomes. South Korea offers skilled surgeons, advanced facilities, and competitive pricing for these procedures, though international travel and recovery logistics should be carefully considered. Non-surgical options like topical treatments, injectables, and energy-based devices remain important alternatives or complements for wrinkle reduction.

References

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