Under-Eye Filler & Dark Circle Treatment in Korea: Complete Guide 2025

Dark circles and under-eye hollows are among the most common concerns that bring patients to Korean dermatology clinics. Under-eye filler (눈밑 필러) offers a quick, non-surgical solution to restore volume and brightness to tired-looking eyes.

Understanding Dark Circles

Before treatment, it's important to understand what causes your dark circles:

Types of Dark Circles

1. Hollow/Shadow Type (Structural)

• Caused by volume loss under eyes
• Creates shadows that appear dark
• Best treated with: Fillers, fat grafting

2. Pigmentation Type

• Actual dark pigment in skin
• Brown or gray discoloration
• Best treated with: Lasers, peels, brightening treatments

3. Vascular Type

• Blood vessels showing through thin skin
• Blue or purple appearance
• Best treated with: Vascular lasers, fillers to add thickness

4. Mixed Type

• Combination of above
• Most common in Asian skin
• Best treated with: Combination approach

Under-Eye Filler Treatment

How It Works

Hyaluronic acid filler is injected into the tear trough (the hollow under the eye) to:

• Fill in sunken areas
• Add volume and support
• Reduce shadow appearance
• Make blood vessels less visible

Immediate Results

The procedure takes just 10-20 minutes with results visible immediately:

• Hollows appear filled
• Shadows reduced
• Brighter, more refreshed appearance
• Natural-looking improvement

Under-Eye Filler Prices in Korea (2025)

Prices as of December 2025. Costs vary by filler type and clinic.

Other Dark Circle Treatments

Duration of Results

Under-eye filler typically lasts 6-12 months, depending on:

• Filler type used
• Individual metabolism
• Amount injected
• Lifestyle factors

Important Safety Considerations

The under-eye area is high-risk for filler complications due to:

• Very thin skin
• Complex blood vessel anatomy
• Proximity to the eye

Potential Complications

Common (Manageable):

• Swelling (1-2 weeks)
• Bruising
• Asymmetry (adjustable)
• Lumps (can be dissolved or massaged)

Specific to Under-Eye:

• Tyndall Effect: Bluish discoloration if filler is too superficial
• Filler migration: Movement from original position
• Puffiness: If too much filler is used

Rare but Serious:

• Vascular occlusion
• Vision problems (extremely rare)

Minimizing Risks

1. Choose an experienced injector - This area requires expertise
2. Use appropriate filler - Soft, fine-particle fillers only
3. Conservative approach - Less is more initially
4. Proper injection depth - Deep placement prevents Tyndall effect

Choosing the Right Filler

Not all fillers are suitable for the delicate under-eye area:

Recommended Fillers

Not Recommended

• Thick, volumizing fillers
• High G-prime (stiff) fillers
• Unknown or cheap filler brands

The Procedure

Before Treatment

• Consultation and assessment
• Photos taken
• Discuss expectations
• Review medical history

During Treatment

1. Area cleansed
2. Numbing cream or local anesthesia
3. Filler injected carefully (cannula or needle)
4. Gentle molding
5. Assessment and adjustments

Duration: 10-20 minutes

After Treatment

• Mild swelling (peaks at 24-48 hours)
• Possible bruising (1-2 weeks)
• Avoid rubbing or pressing
• Sleep elevated for first night
• No strenuous exercise for 24 hours

Alternative Treatments

For Pigmentation

• Laser Toning: Brightens dark pigment
• Chemical Peels: Exfoliates and brightens
• Vitamin C treatments: Antioxidant brightening

For Severe Hollowing

• Fat Grafting: Longer-lasting but surgical
• Collagen Stimulators: Gradual volume building

For Skin Quality

• PRP: Improves skin texture
• Rejuran i: Eye-specific formula
• RF treatments: Tightening

Who is a Good Candidate?

Ideal Candidates:

• Hollow or sunken under-eyes
• Shadow-type dark circles
• Good skin elasticity
• Realistic expectations
• No active eye conditions

May Need Alternative Approach:

• Severe pigmentation (laser first)
• Very thin skin (higher risk)
• Significant fat bags (surgery may be better)
• Unrealistic expectations

Combining Treatments

Many Korean clinics recommend combination approaches:

Example Protocol:

1. Under-eye filler for volume
2. Laser toning for pigmentation
3. Eye-specific skin boosters for quality

This addresses multiple causes of dark circles simultaneously.

FAQ

Q: Does under-eye filler hurt? A: With numbing cream, most patients describe mild pressure, not pain. The area can be sensitive, but it's tolerable.

Q: How long until swelling goes down? A: Most swelling subsides in 3-5 days, with final results visible at 2 weeks.

Q: What if I don't like the results? A: HA fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase. Wait 2 weeks before assessing.

Q: Can under-eye filler make me look puffy? A: If too much is injected or placed incorrectly, yes. This is why choosing an experienced injector is crucial.

Q: How do I avoid the Tyndall effect? A: Proper deep injection technique and appropriate filler choice prevent this. Choose an experienced practitioner.

Q: Is one session enough? A: Many patients are satisfied after one session. Touch-ups may be done after 2 weeks if needed.

Conclusion

Under-eye filler can dramatically improve dark circles and hollow under-eyes when performed correctly. The key is choosing an experienced Korean practitioner who uses appropriate techniques and products for this delicate area.

Ready to brighten your under-eyes? Consult with a qualified specialist to determine if you're a good candidate and discuss the best approach for your specific type of dark circles.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about under-eye filler treatments. It is not intended as medical advice. The under-eye area carries specific risks. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.

Last Updated: December 2025