Under Eye Filler in Korea: Your Complete Guide to Tear Trough Treatment

Dark circles and under eye hollows are among the most common cosmetic concerns that bring international visitors to Korean dermatology clinics. Under eye filler, also known as tear trough filler (눈밑 필러), has become one of the most sought-after non-surgical treatments in Seoul, offering a quick and effective solution to tired-looking eyes. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting under eye filler in Korea in 2025.

What Causes Under Eye Hollows and Dark Circles?

Understanding the root cause of your under eye concerns is essential for choosing the right treatment approach. Dark circles and tear trough hollows can result from several factors:

Structural Causes:

Natural bone structure creating shadows under the eyes
Loss of fat pad volume beneath the eye (tear trough deformity)
Thinning skin revealing underlying blood vessels
Aging-related volume loss in the mid-face area

Contributing Factors:

Genetics and hereditary predisposition
Sleep deprivation and fatigue
Allergies causing periorbital hyperpigmentation
Sun damage and lifestyle factors
Dehydration affecting skin quality

When the hollowing beneath your eyes creates shadows, or when blood vessels become visible through thin skin, filler injections can effectively address these concerns by restoring lost volume.

How Under Eye Filler Works

Under eye filler treatment involves injecting hyaluronic acid (HA) into the tear trough area to fill hollows and reduce the appearance of dark circles. The hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally present in your body, making it biocompatible and safe for injection.

The procedure works by:

Adding volume to sunken areas beneath the eyes
Reducing shadows caused by hollow contours
Minimizing the visibility of blood vessels showing through thin skin
Creating a smoother transition between the lower eyelid and cheek

The treatment takes just 10-20 minutes and involves local or topical anesthesia, making it virtually painless with minimal downtime.

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Types of Fillers Used for Under Eye Treatment

Korean clinics use several premium filler brands for tear trough treatment. Each has distinct characteristics suited to different needs:

Restylane (Including Restylane Eyelight)

Origin: Sweden Best For: Under eye area, patients concerned about the Tyndall effect

Restylane has earned FDA approval as one of the first hyaluronic acid fillers and remains a top choice for tear trough treatment. The newer Restylane Eyelight is specifically designed for the under eye area, with a formulation that significantly reduces the risk of the Tyndall effect (bluish discoloration). Its smooth consistency spreads naturally without clumping.

Pros:

High safety profile with long track record
Non-animal derived hyaluronic acid (no virus transmission risk)
Natural appearance that integrates well with tissue
Eyelight version specifically optimized for tear troughs
Easy to dissolve if results are unsatisfactory

Duration: 12-16 months

Juvederm

Origin: France (Allergan, USA) Best For: Patients wanting longer-lasting results with soft texture

Juvederm offers a soft, smooth texture that creates minimal foreign body sensation. It tends to provide excellent hydration and can last longer than some alternatives. The product is known for gradually increasing in volume after injection.

Pros:

Smooth gel consistency
Minimal lump formation
Good volume retention over time
Low risk of feeling artificial

Duration: 10-14 months

Belotero

Origin: Switzerland (Merz) Best For: Very thin skin, superficial injection needs

Belotero has gained recognition as a rising star in the filler market, with clinical studies showing comparable longevity to Juvederm and some evidence suggesting even longer-lasting results in certain cases.

Pros:

Excellent for fine, thin-skinned areas
Low incidence of visible lumps
Smooth integration with surrounding tissue
Reduced Tyndall effect risk

Duration: 12-18 months

Korean Domestic Fillers (Neuramis, etc.)

Origin: South Korea Best For: Budget-conscious patients, first-time treatment

Korean-made fillers like Neuramis offer quality results at lower price points. While they typically last 6-12 months compared to 12-24 months for premium imports, they provide an excellent option for those wanting to try the treatment before committing to more expensive options.

Duration: 6-12 months

Under Eye Filler Prices in Korea (2025)

One of the biggest advantages of getting under eye filler in Korea is the significantly lower cost compared to Western countries. Here is the current pricing landscape:

Filler Type	Price Range (KRW)	Price Range (USD)
Korean HA Fillers (Neuramis)	₩200,000 - ₩400,000	$150 - $300
Restylane/Eyelight	₩400,000 - ₩600,000	$300 - $450
Juvederm	₩450,000 - ₩700,000	$340 - $530
Belotero	₩400,000 - ₩650,000	$300 - $490

Price Factors:

Clinic location (Gangnam clinics typically charge 30-40% more than other areas)
Doctor's experience and reputation
Amount of filler needed (usually 0.5-1ml per side)
Package deals combining multiple treatments

Money-Saving Tips:

Look for seasonal promotions and special offers
Consider package deals combining under eye filler with other treatments
Compare prices across multiple clinics before booking
Some clinics offer discounts for first-time international patients

The Treatment Process

Before Your Appointment

Avoid blood-thinning medications (aspirin, ibuprofen) for 1 week
No alcohol for 24-48 hours before treatment
Arrive with a clean face, no makeup
Inform your doctor of any allergies or medical conditions

During the Procedure

Consultation (15-30 minutes): Your doctor assesses your under eye area and discusses your goals
Numbing (10-15 minutes): Topical anesthetic cream is applied
Injection (10-20 minutes): Small amounts of filler are carefully injected using fine needles or cannulas
Assessment: Your doctor checks symmetry and may gently massage the area

After Treatment

Mild swelling and potential bruising for 2-7 days
Results visible immediately, improving over 1-2 weeks as swelling subsides
Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and saunas for 2-3 days
No facial massages for at least 1 month
Stay out of extreme heat (saunas, hot yoga) for 1 week

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Risks and Safety Considerations

While under eye filler is generally safe when performed by qualified practitioners, understanding potential risks is crucial:

Common Side Effects

Bruising: Usually resolves within 1-2 weeks
Swelling: Peaks at 24-48 hours, subsides within a week
Tenderness: Mild discomfort that fades quickly
Temporary asymmetry: Often resolves as swelling goes down

Tyndall Effect (틴들현상)

The Tyndall effect is one of the most common under eye filler complications. It occurs when filler placed too superficially causes a bluish discoloration under the skin. This happens because:

Light scatters through the hyaluronic acid particles
The thin under eye skin makes it more visible
Overfilling or improper placement increases risk

Important distinction: The Tyndall effect is different from bruising. Bruising typically resolves within 2-3 weeks, while the Tyndall effect persists until the filler is dissolved or absorbed.

Prevention: Choose experienced injectors and appropriate filler products like Restylane Eyelight designed to minimize this risk.

Treatment: If Tyndall effect occurs, hyaluronidase enzyme can dissolve the filler.

Serious Complications (Rare)

Vascular occlusion (extremely rare but serious)
Infection
Allergic reaction
Vision changes (seek immediate medical attention)

Important: The under eye area is one of the most technically challenging areas for filler injection. The skin is extremely thin, there is significant movement, and the anatomy is complex. Always choose licensed medical professionals at reputable clinics with extensive experience in tear trough treatments. Never get fillers at unlicensed establishments where dangerous substances like industrial silicone may be used.

How Long Does Under Eye Filler Last?

Results typically last:

Korean domestic fillers: 6-12 months
Premium imported fillers: 12-24 months

Individual factors affecting longevity:

Your metabolism and how quickly your body breaks down hyaluronic acid
Amount and type of filler used
Lifestyle factors (exercise, sun exposure)
Injection technique and depth

Most patients schedule maintenance treatments every 6-12 months to maintain optimal results. Good news: under eye filler often lasts longer than lip filler due to less movement in the tear trough area.

Best Clinics for Under Eye Filler in Korea

When choosing a clinic for under eye filler in Seoul, consider:

Key Selection Criteria:

Board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons
Extensive experience with tear trough treatments (ask how many procedures they perform monthly)
English-speaking staff or interpreter services
Transparent pricing and consultation process
Positive reviews from international patients

Popular Areas for Clinics:

Gangnam: Highest concentration of premium clinics
Apgujeong: Known for celebrity-favorite establishments
Sinsa/Garosugil: Trendy area with modern clinics
Myeongdong: Tourist-friendly with multilingual staff

What to Look For:

Clinics that use the cannula technique (reduces bruising and provides smoother results)
Doctors who take a conservative approach (it is easier to add more filler than to dissolve excess)
Facilities that show you the sealed product package before treatment
Practices that provide clear aftercare instructions and emergency contact information

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is under eye filler painful? A: Most patients report minimal discomfort thanks to topical numbing cream. The procedure feels like small pinches or pressure, with pain typically rated 2-4 out of 10.

Q: Can I wear makeup after treatment? A: Wait at least 24 hours before applying makeup to the treated area to reduce infection risk.

Q: How soon will I see results? A: Results are visible immediately, though final results appear after swelling subsides (1-2 weeks).

Q: What if I don't like the results? A: Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase enzyme within 24-48 hours if needed.

Q: Is under eye filler better than surgery? A: Filler is ideal for mild to moderate hollowing and provides temporary results. Severe cases or significant eye bags may benefit from fat repositioning surgery (눈밑지방재배치) for permanent correction.

Q: Can under eye filler completely eliminate dark circles? A: Filler effectively treats dark circles caused by hollowing and shadows. Pigmentation-related dark circles may require additional treatments like lasers or topical products.

Q: How much filler will I need? A: Most patients require 0.5-1cc per eye (1-2cc total). Your doctor will start conservatively and can schedule a touch-up 2 weeks later if additional product is needed.

Q: Are Korean filler brands safe? A: Yes, Korean-manufactured fillers are regulated by the Korean FDA (KFDA). However, for the delicate under eye area, many doctors recommend premium international brands due to their specific formulations for thin skin.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Under eye filler is a medical procedure that should only be performed by qualified healthcare professionals. Individual results vary based on factors including anatomy, skin condition, and the specific products used.

Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to determine if under eye filler is appropriate for your specific concerns. Discuss your medical history, allergies, and expectations during your consultation.

The prices and information provided reflect general market conditions as of 2025 and may vary by clinic. We recommend obtaining personalized quotes and conducting thorough research before proceeding with any cosmetic treatment.

Planning your Korean beauty journey? Under eye filler offers a quick, effective solution for tired-looking eyes with minimal downtime. Book consultations with multiple clinics to find the best fit for your needs and budget.

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