Under-Eye Treatments in Korea: Fillers, Fat Grafting & Dark Circle Solutions

Dark circles, hollowed tear troughs, and under-eye bags are among the most common cosmetic concerns for international visitors seeking treatment in Korea. Korean dermatologists and plastic surgeons have pioneered advanced techniques for treating these delicate areas, offering solutions that range from quick filler injections to surgical fat repositioning procedures. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about under-eye treatments in Korea, including the latest techniques, realistic price ranges, and what to expect from each option.

Understanding Under-Eye Issues: Causes and Types

Before choosing a treatment, it's important to understand what's causing your under-eye concerns. Korean dermatologists typically identify several distinct issues:

Common Under-Eye Problems

Tear Trough Deformity (눈밑 꺼짐) A hollow groove that runs from the inner corner of the eye diagonally across the cheek. This creates a shadowed appearance that makes you look tired or older than you are. This condition is caused by volume loss in the mid-face area and thinning of the skin as we age.

Dark Circles (다크서클) Most dark circles stem from two structural causes rather than simply being "tired." The first is blood vessel visibility - when thin under-eye skin allows bluish vessels to show through. The second is the shadow effect created by hollowing beneath the eyes, which makes the area appear darker even when no actual pigmentation exists.

Under-Eye Bags (눈밑 지방) Bulging fat pads that create a puffy appearance under the eyes. This occurs when the supportive tissues and muscles around the eyes weaken with age, allowing orbital fat to protrude forward.

Combination Issues Many people experience a combination of hollowing and bulging - where fat bags protrude in one area while the tear trough appears sunken in another. This requires a sophisticated treatment approach.

Treatment Options: Fillers vs Fat Grafting

Korean clinics offer two primary approaches to under-eye rejuvenation, each with distinct advantages and considerations.

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (히알루론산 필러)

Tear trough fillers have become one of the most popular quick-fix solutions for under-eye hollowing and dark circles in Korea.

How It Works A skilled practitioner injects hyaluronic acid filler into the tear trough area using either a fine needle or a blunt-tipped cannula. The filler adds volume to the hollow area, smoothing the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek while reducing the shadow effect that creates the appearance of dark circles.

Procedure Details

• Duration: 10-20 minutes
• Anesthesia: Topical numbing cream or local anesthetic
• Downtime: Minimal; you can return to normal activities immediately
• Results: Immediate visibility
• Longevity: 6-18 months depending on the filler brand used

Popular Filler Brands in Korea

• Korean Brands: Neuramis, Elravie (6-12 months duration)
• Premium Imported Brands: Restylane Eyelight, Teosyal Redensity II (12-18 months duration)

The premium brands are specifically formulated for the delicate under-eye area with softer consistency and specialized ingredients to reduce swelling and bruising.

Advantages

• Quick, non-surgical procedure
• Immediate results with no recovery time
• Reversible with hyaluronidase if needed
• Lower upfront cost compared to surgery
• Can be adjusted with touch-ups

Potential Side Effects Korean dermatologists emphasize several risks unique to the under-eye area:

• Tyndall Effect: A bluish tint that appears when filler is placed too superficially under thin skin
• Lumps and Irregularities: The constant eye movement can make even small amounts of filler visible
• Migration: Filler can shift from the injection site over time
• Swelling: More pronounced in the morning due to fluid accumulation
• Puffiness: Hyaluronic acid attracts water, which can create a puffy appearance

These risks can be minimized by choosing an experienced injector who specializes in the under-eye area and uses proper technique with a cannula rather than a sharp needle.

Fat Grafting and Repositioning (지방이식 및 재배치)

For those seeking a more permanent solution, Korean plastic surgeons offer fat-based procedures.

Under-Eye Fat Repositioning (눈밑지방재배치) This surgical procedure repositions existing orbital fat that's causing bulging under the eyes. Instead of removing this fat, the surgeon redistributes it to fill the hollow tear trough area. The procedure is performed through the inner eyelid (transconjunctival approach), leaving no visible scars.

Autologous Fat Grafting (자가지방이식) Fat is harvested from another area of your body (typically the abdomen or thighs), processed, and then carefully injected into the under-eye area in tiny amounts to add volume and smooth hollowing.

Procedure Details

• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia
• Downtime: 1-2 weeks for significant swelling and bruising
• Results: Visible after swelling subsides (2-4 weeks)
• Longevity: Semi-permanent to permanent

Important Considerations Korean surgeons often caution against under-eye fat grafting due to unique challenges in this area. The constant movement of the eyes can cause grafted fat to:

• Create visible lumps or irregularities
• Show clear demarcation lines
• Have poor survival rates due to thin skin and constant motion
• Develop an uneven appearance over time

Many experienced Korean surgeons prefer fat repositioning over fat grafting for under-eye concerns, or they recommend fillers for cases where only volume addition is needed.

Price Comparison: What to Expect in Korea

One of the main reasons international patients choose Korea for under-eye treatments is the significant cost savings compared to Western countries.

Under-Eye Filler Pricing

Standard Range: ₩250,000-₩500,000 ($190-$385 per session)

• Mid-range clinics using Korean brands (Neuramis, Elravie)
• Typically 0.5-1ml used for both eyes
• Includes consultation and follow-up

Premium Range: ₩500,000-₩700,000 ($385-$540 per session)

• High-end clinics in Gangnam and Cheongdam
• Premium imported brands (Restylane Eyelight, Teosyal Redensity II)
• Experienced injectors specializing in Asian eyes

Luxury Range: ₩600,000-₩2,000,000 ($460-$1,540 per treatment)

• Celebrity clinics and renowned specialists
• May include multiple syringes or combination treatments
• Comprehensive before/after care packages

Touch-Up Sessions: ₩100,000-₩200,000 ($75-$155)

• Minor corrections or additions
• Usually needed 2-4 weeks after initial treatment

Fat Grafting and Repositioning Pricing

Fat Repositioning (눈밑지방재배치): ₩1,000,000-₩1,500,000 ($770-$1,155)

• Average price: ₩1,200,000 ($923)
• Includes consultation, surgery, and follow-ups
• Some clinics charge as low as ₩99,000 ($76) during promotional periods

Autologous Fat Grafting: ₩1,200,000-₩1,500,000 ($923-$1,155)

• Includes fat harvesting from donor site
• Processing and injection into under-eye area
• Multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results

Advanced Combination Procedures: ₩1,600,000-₩2,500,000 ($1,230-$1,925)

• Stroma regeneration techniques
• Fat repositioning combined with filler or laser treatments
• Comprehensive eye rejuvenation packages

Cost Comparison with Western Countries

• United States: $800-$1,500 for tear trough filler (60-75% more expensive)
• United Kingdom: £600-£1,200 for similar treatments
• Australia: AUD $900-$1,800 for under-eye procedures

International patients typically save 60-75% on under-eye treatments in Korea while receiving care from specialists who understand Asian facial anatomy and have extensive experience with these delicate procedures.

Note: Prices listed are as of January 2026 and are subject to change based on exchange rates (approximately ₩1,300 = $1 USD). Always confirm current pricing directly with clinics.

Recovery Time and Aftercare

Filler Recovery

Immediate Post-Treatment (Day 1-3)

• Mild swelling and possible bruising at injection sites
• Ice packs recommended for first 24 hours
• Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and blood thinners
• Sleep with head elevated to reduce swelling

Short-Term (Week 1-2)

• Most swelling subsides within 3-5 days
• Final results visible after 2 weeks once any swelling fully resolves
• Avoid facial massage or pressure on treated area
• Stay hydrated and avoid excessive salt intake

Long-Term Maintenance

• Results last 6-18 months depending on filler type
• Touch-up treatments can extend results
• Use sunscreen and gentle skincare around eyes

Fat Grafting/Repositioning Recovery

Immediate Post-Surgery (Week 1)

• Significant swelling and bruising expected
• Ice packs and prescribed medications to manage discomfort
• Avoid bending down, heavy lifting, or straining
• Sleep with head elevated at 30-45 degrees

Medium-Term (Weeks 2-4)

• Most visible swelling and bruising subside
• Can return to work with makeup to cover residual discoloration
• Gentle activities permitted; avoid strenuous exercise
• Follow surgeon's instructions for scar care (if external incisions)

Long-Term (Months 1-3)

• Final results become apparent as all swelling resolves
• Fat survival stabilizes (typically 60-80% of grafted fat survives)
• Can resume all normal activities including exercise
• Follow-up appointments to assess results

Recommended Clinics in Seoul

Based on specialization in under-eye treatments and foreigner-friendly services:

Premium Gangnam Clinics

1. Nest Skin Clinic (Gangnam)

• Specialty: Conservative filler techniques for natural results
• English Support: Full English-speaking staff
• Price Range: ₩400,000-₩700,000 for under-eye fillers
• Why Recommended: Specializes in Asian facial anatomy with minimal downtime techniques

2. Cheongdam Skin Clinic

• Location: Cheongdam luxury district
• Specialty: Premium filler brands and advanced techniques
• English Support: Available
• Price Range: ₩500,000-₩900,000
• Why Recommended: Uses specialized eye-area fillers with excellent safety record

3. Bailor Skin Clinic

• Location: Gangnam Station area
• Specialty: Cannula technique for minimal bruising
• English Support: Native English-speaking consultants
• Price Range: ₩350,000-₩600,000
• Why Recommended: High volume of international patients, transparent pricing

Plastic Surgery Clinics for Fat Procedures

4. Aimi Plastic Surgery (아이미성형외과)

• Specialty: Fat repositioning and grafting
• Pricing: ₩1,200,000 for fat repositioning
• English Support: Available with advance booking
• Why Recommended: Experienced in Asian eye anatomy with natural results

5. Seoul Dermatology Clinic

• Location: Multiple Gangnam locations
• Specialty: Both surgical and non-surgical options
• English Support: Full bilingual services
• Why Recommended: Comprehensive consultation to determine best treatment option

Filler vs Fat Grafting: Which Should You Choose?

Choose Fillers If You:

• Want immediate results with no recovery time
• Have mild to moderate under-eye hollowing
• Prefer a reversible, non-surgical option
• Are testing the results before committing to surgery
• Have limited time in Korea (can be done in one visit)
• Want to spend $200-$600

Choose Fat Grafting/Repositioning If You:

• Have significant under-eye bags and hollowing
• Want long-lasting or permanent results
• Are willing to commit to 1-2 weeks recovery
• Have realistic expectations about swelling and healing
• Can schedule multiple follow-up appointments
• Want to invest $900-$1,500 for lasting results

Consider Combination Treatments If You:

• Have both bulging fat and hollow tear troughs
• Want to address multiple under-eye concerns simultaneously
• Are seeking comprehensive eye rejuvenation

Many Korean surgeons recommend starting with fillers to preview the results, then deciding whether to proceed with surgery for permanent correction.

Booking Your Under-Eye Treatment in Korea

Step-by-Step Process

1. Research and Consultation (1-2 months before travel)

• Email 3-5 clinics with your photos and concerns
• Receive price quotes and treatment recommendations
• Verify English language support availability
• Check clinic credentials and reviews

2. Schedule Appointments (1 month before)

• Book in-person consultations for your first day in Seoul
• Allow at least 2-3 days between consultations and treatment
• Schedule follow-up appointments if needed

3. In-Person Consultation

• Discuss your concerns and desired outcomes
• Doctor examines your under-eye anatomy
• Receive professional recommendation (filler vs surgery)
• Confirm final pricing and treatment plan

4. Treatment Day

• Arrive with clean face (no makeup)
• Sign consent forms and verify treatment plan
• Procedure performed
• Receive aftercare instructions and medications

5. Follow-Up Care

• Attend scheduled follow-up appointments
• Contact clinic if any concerns arise
• Plan touch-up treatments if needed

Questions to Ask During Consultation

• What specific technique do you recommend for my eye anatomy?
• Which filler brand will you use and why?
• How many similar procedures have you performed?
• What are the realistic risks for my specific case?
• Can I see before/after photos of similar cases?
• What happens if I'm not satisfied with the results?
• Is revision or touch-up included in the price?

FAQ

Q: How long do I need to stay in Korea for under-eye filler? A: For fillers alone, you only need 1-2 days minimum - one day for consultation and treatment, and potentially one follow-up day. However, it's recommended to stay 3-5 days to monitor initial swelling and address any concerns.

Q: Can under-eye fillers make bags worse? A: Yes, if too much filler is used or if it's placed incorrectly, it can attract water and create puffiness. This is why choosing an experienced injector who uses conservative amounts is crucial. The filler can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if this occurs.

Q: Is fat grafting better than filler for under-eyes? A: Not necessarily. Many Korean surgeons actually prefer fillers for under-eye hollowing because the constant eye movement makes fat grafting unpredictable. Fat repositioning (moving existing eye bag fat) is often considered superior to fat grafting from other body areas.

Q: How painful are under-eye treatments? A: Fillers involve minimal discomfort with topical anesthesia - most patients describe it as mild pressure. Fat procedures require stronger anesthesia but are performed under sedation or general anesthesia, so you won't feel pain during the procedure.

Q: Will I have bruising after under-eye filler? A: Bruising is possible but can be minimized by using a cannula technique rather than a needle. About 30-40% of patients experience some bruising, which typically resolves within 3-7 days and can be covered with makeup.

Q: Can I wear makeup after the procedure? A: For fillers, you should wait 24 hours before applying makeup. For fat procedures, wait until sutures are removed or at least 5-7 days. Always use gentle, non-irritating products.

Q: What's the difference between Korean and Western under-eye techniques? A: Korean practitioners typically use more conservative amounts of filler for natural results and are experienced with the thinner skin and different fat distribution patterns common in Asian eyes. Western practitioners may use more aggressive volume correction.

Q: How do I know if my dark circles are from hollowing or pigmentation? A: A simple test: gently pull the skin taut. If the darkness reduces, it's likely from shadowing (hollowing). If it stays the same, you may have actual pigmentation that requires different treatments like laser or chemical peels.

Conclusion

Under-eye treatments in Korea offer international patients access to some of the world's most advanced and affordable solutions for tear troughs, dark circles, and eye bags. Whether you choose quick tear trough fillers for $200-$600 or invest in surgical fat repositioning for permanent results at $900-$1,500, Korean specialists bring exceptional expertise in Asian eye anatomy and conservative, natural-looking techniques.

The key to successful under-eye treatment is choosing the right procedure for your specific anatomy, selecting an experienced practitioner who understands the delicate nature of this area, and having realistic expectations about results and recovery. Start with thorough research, book consultations with multiple clinics, and don't rush your decision.

Ready to rejuvenate your under-eye area? Contact foreigner-friendly clinics in Gangnam to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward brighter, more youthful-looking eyes.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about under-eye treatments available in Korea. It is not intended as medical advice and should not replace professional consultation. Always consult with a qualified, licensed healthcare professional before undergoing any medical or cosmetic procedure. Individual results may vary, and all procedures carry potential risks and side effects that should be thoroughly discussed with your doctor.

Last Updated: January 5, 2026 Reading Time: 12 minutes