Tear Trough Filler in Korea: Under-Eye & Aegyo-sal Guide - Prices & Clinics 2025
Looking to brighten tired eyes or create that youthful Korean "aegyo-sal" look? Tear trough and under-eye filler treatments in Korea offer non-surgical solutions for dark circles, hollowness, and adding that charming eye smile. This guide covers everything international patients need to know.
Understanding Tear Trough vs. Aegyo-sal Filler
In Korea, under-eye filler treatments serve two distinct purposes:
Tear Trough Filler
- Purpose: Treats dark circles and hollow under-eyes
- Target area: The depression between lower eyelid and cheek
- Goal: Reduce tired appearance, create smoothness
Aegyo-sal Filler (애교살)
- Purpose: Creates a small, puffy roll beneath the eyes
- Target area: Directly under the lash line
- Goal: Youthful, friendly appearance; the coveted "eye smile"
Both are incredibly popular in Korea, where bright, youthful eyes are a key beauty standard.
Why Choose Korea for Under-Eye Filler?
Korea excels in delicate eye area treatments:
- Precision expertise: Korean doctors specialize in intricate facial areas
- Aegyo-sal specialization: This technique originated in Korea
- Natural results: Focus on subtle, harmonious enhancement
- Advanced products: Access to specialized under-eye fillers
- Competitive pricing: Significant savings vs. Western clinics
Tear Trough & Aegyo-sal Filler Prices in Korea (2025)
Under-eye treatments are delicate and priced accordingly:
| Treatment Type | Price Range (USD) | Price Range (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| Aegyo-sal Filler | $60-$130 | ₩80,000-₩170,000 |
| Tear Trough Filler | $100-$270 | ₩130,000-₩350,000 |
| Combined Treatment | $150-$350 | ₩200,000-₩450,000 |
Average prices according to Korean medical platforms:
- Aegyo-sal filler: $60 (₩80,000) average
- General under-eye filler: $130 (₩170,000) average
Clinic-Specific Examples (Seoul Gangnam)
Based on recent Korean platform data:
- Budget clinics: ₩166,000-₩190,000 ($125-$145)
- Mid-range clinics: ₩200,000-₩300,000 ($155-$230)
- Premium clinics: ₩350,000+ ($270+)
What Affects Pricing?
- Filler type: Specialized under-eye fillers cost more
- Amount needed: Usually 0.5-1cc per eye
- Clinic reputation: Premium locations charge more
- Doctor experience: Eye area specialists command higher fees
How Tear Trough Filler Works
The Science
The tear trough is the groove running from the inner corner of the eye toward the cheek. As we age, this area loses volume, creating:
- Dark shadows
- Hollow appearance
- Tired look
- Visible separation between eyelid and cheek
Hyaluronic acid filler is injected to:
- Fill the depression: Smooth the groove
- Reflect light better: Reduce dark shadow appearance
- Restore volume: Plump the under-eye area
- Improve skin quality: Hydrate from within
Best Filler Types for Under-Eyes
Not all fillers are suitable for this delicate area. Korean clinics commonly use:
- Soft, fluid fillers: Less likely to cause lumps
- Low-viscosity HA: Better for thin-skinned areas
- Specialized products: Designed for periorbital use
Popular choices include softer formulations of Restylane, Juvederm, and Korean brands.
Aegyo-sal: The Korean Eye Smile
What is Aegyo-sal?
Aegyo-sal (애교살) literally translates to "charming fat" or "cute skin." It refers to the small, puffy roll of skin directly below the lower lash line that becomes more prominent when smiling.
In Korean beauty culture, aegyo-sal:
- Creates a youthful, approachable appearance
- Makes eyes look larger and friendlier
- Adds dimension and "life" to the eye area
- Is associated with attractiveness and warmth
Natural vs. Created Aegyo-sal
Some people have natural aegyo-sal, while others can create it with:
- Filler injections: Most popular method
- Fat grafting: More permanent option
- Makeup: Temporary illusion
Results and Duration
What to Expect
Immediate results: Visible right after treatment Final results: Best assessed after 1-2 weeks (once swelling subsides)
According to Korean clinic data:
- Most patients see improvement immediately
- Full settling takes 1-2 weeks
- Optimal results visible by 2-4 weeks
How Long Does It Last?
Under-eye filler typically lasts 6-12 months, influenced by:
- Filler type: Some last longer than others
- Individual metabolism: Affects breakdown rate
- Area movement: Eyes move frequently
- Lifestyle: Sleep, hydration, stress levels
With repeat treatments, duration often increases as the area builds a foundation.
The Treatment Process
Before Your Appointment
- Avoid blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen) for 1 week
- Skip alcohol for 2-3 days
- Come with clean skin (no eye makeup)
- Get adequate sleep
During Treatment (30-45 minutes)
- Consultation (10-15 min): Assessment and treatment planning
- Numbing (15 min): Topical anesthetic cream applied
- Injection (10-15 min): Careful, precise filler placement
- Massage (5 min): Gentle molding for smooth results
After Treatment
- Mild swelling for 2-5 days (normal)
- Possible bruising (resolves in 1 week)
- Avoid rubbing eyes for 48 hours
- Skip heavy exercise for 2-3 days
Potential Side Effects and Risks
The under-eye area is delicate, so choosing an experienced practitioner is crucial.
Common (Temporary) Effects
- Swelling (2-5 days)
- Bruising (up to 1 week)
- Tenderness
- Slight asymmetry (usually self-correcting)
Rare but Possible Complications
- Tyndall effect: Bluish tint if filler placed too superficially
- Lumps: From improper placement
- Migration: Filler moving from injection site
- Vascular issues: Extremely rare but serious
Minimizing Risks
- Choose experienced practitioners: Eye area requires expertise
- Use appropriate fillers: Not all fillers suit this area
- Follow aftercare: Proper care prevents complications
- Return for review: Address any concerns promptly
Who is a Good Candidate?
Ideal Candidates
- Dark circles due to volume loss (not pigmentation)
- Hollow or sunken under-eyes
- Desire for aegyo-sal enhancement
- Generally good health
- Realistic expectations
May Not Be Suitable
- Very thin skin with visible veins
- Significant under-eye bags (may need surgery)
- Active skin conditions near eyes
- Unrealistic expectations
- Allergies to hyaluronic acid
Choosing the Right Clinic
What to Look For
- Specialization in eye treatments
- Before/after photos of under-eye work
- Experienced injector: This area requires precision
- English communication: Essential for discussing goals
- Quality filler brands
Questions to Ask
- What filler brand do you recommend for under-eyes?
- How many under-eye treatments do you perform monthly?
- What's your approach to avoiding complications?
- Can I see before/after photos of similar cases?
Tips for International Patients
Planning Your Visit
- Book consultation 1-2 days before treatment
- Schedule treatment early in your trip (allows time for swelling to subside)
- Bring photos of your desired results
- Research aegyo-sal specifically if that's your goal
Post-Treatment Travel Tips
- Swelling is normal—don't panic
- Bring sunglasses for comfort and discretion
- Avoid flying for 24 hours if possible (pressure changes)
- Stay hydrated during flights
FAQ
Q: Is under-eye filler painful? A: With numbing cream, most patients feel only mild pressure. The eye area is sensitive but treatment is quick.
Q: Can filler fix my dark circles completely? A: Filler helps dark circles caused by hollowness. Pigmentation-related darkness may need other treatments.
Q: How is aegyo-sal different from eye bags? A: Aegyo-sal is a small, defined roll directly under the lashes. Eye bags are larger, puffier, and located lower.
Q: What if I don't like the results? A: Hyaluronic acid filler can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if needed.
Q: How soon can I wear makeup? A: Wait 24-48 hours before applying eye makeup to allow injection sites to heal.
Q: Will the filler look obvious? A: When done well, results should look natural. Overfilling is the main cause of obvious results.
Conclusion
Tear trough and aegyo-sal filler in Korea offers expert treatment for under-eye concerns at competitive prices. Whether you want to eliminate dark circles or create that charming Korean eye smile, Seoul's clinics have the expertise to deliver beautiful, natural results.
Ready to brighten your eyes? Book a consultation with a Korean eye treatment specialist and discover your refreshed, youthful look.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about under-eye filler treatments. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Individual results may vary.
Last Updated: January 2025 Prices as of January 2025. Actual costs may vary by clinic and exchange rates.