Ptosis Correction in Seoul

Drooping upper eyelids, medically known as ptosis, can affect how open and alert the eyes appear, and in some cases may narrow the visual field. Many patients considering ptosis correction Seoul clinics are looking for a way to address either a congenital droop or a change that has developed gradually with age. This page outlines what the procedure involves, who tends to be a good candidate, and what recovery generally looks like, based on the treatment as offered at MOOi Plastic Surgery Clinic in Gangnam-gu.

What it is

Ptosis correction is a surgical procedure designed to raise the position of the upper eyelid margin by tightening or reattaching the muscle responsible for lifting the eyelid, known as the levator muscle. The goal is to restore a more symmetrical, open eyelid position and, where relevant, improve upward gaze. The exact surgical approach depends on the underlying cause and severity of the droop, and this is assessed individually during a consultation rather than applied as a single standard technique.

Who it suits

This procedure may be suitable for people who have:

• A visibly asymmetric or heavy-looking upper eyelid that does not open fully
• Difficulty keeping the eyes open by the end of the day, or compensatory eyebrow raising
• Reduced upper visual field attributed to eyelid droop, as confirmed by an eye exam
• Cosmetic concerns about eyelid asymmetry alongside functional symptoms

Because ptosis has several possible causes, from congenital muscle weakness to age-related stretching of eyelid tissue, a thorough evaluation is needed before any surgical plan is proposed. Anyone researching ptosis correction Seoul options should expect an in-person or detailed photographic assessment before a technique is recommended.

Who should avoid it

Ptosis correction is not appropriate for everyone. It may not be advisable, or may require additional caution, for people who have:

• Active eye infections or uncontrolled dry eye disease
• Certain neurological or muscular conditions affecting eyelid function, which require separate evaluation
• Unrealistic expectations about symmetry, since some degree of natural asymmetry is common and cannot always be fully corrected
• Significant uncontrolled systemic conditions that increase surgical risk, such as poorly managed diabetes or bleeding disorders

A detailed medical history and, where needed, referral for further eye examination helps determine whether surgery is a reasonable option or whether non-surgical management should be considered first.

How the session goes

Consultations typically begin with a discussion of symptoms, medical history, and expectations, followed by an examination of eyelid position, muscle function, and symmetry. Photographs are usually taken for planning and comparison. The surgical procedure itself is generally performed under local anesthesia, sometimes with light sedation, and involves an incision along the natural eyelid crease to access and adjust the levator muscle or its attachment. Surgical time varies depending on whether one or both eyelids are treated and the complexity of the correction needed. At MOOi Plastic Surgery Clinic, eyelid procedures fall under the head surgeon role held by Hwang Sungoh, M.D., whose listed background includes fellowships at The Royal London Hospital in the UK and Kyushu University Hospital in Japan, along with membership in several Korean plastic surgery societies.

Downtime and recovery

Swelling and bruising around the eyelids are common in the initial days after surgery and generally improve over the first one to two weeks, though individual healing speed varies. Stitches, if used externally, are typically removed within about a week. Patients are usually advised to keep the head elevated, apply cold compresses in the early days, and avoid strenuous activity or eye rubbing during the initial recovery period. Some residual swelling or mild asymmetry can persist for several weeks as tissues settle, and final results are usually assessed over a period of months rather than immediately after surgery. Because healing timelines differ from person to person, the clinic will typically provide a personalized aftercare schedule and follow-up plan.

Pricing

Specific pricing for ptosis correction is not published here, as cost depends on factors such as whether one or both eyelids are treated, the surgical technique required, and individual anatomy identified during consultation. Patients should request a personalized quote directly from MOOi Plastic Surgery Clinic, and should confirm whether VAT and consultation fees are included, since these can vary. Contact details are listed at the end of this page for direct enquiries.

Safety

As with any eyelid surgery, ptosis correction carries potential risks, including infection, temporary or, less commonly, longer-lasting asymmetry, under- or over-correction of eyelid height, scarring along the incision line, and changes in eyelid sensation. Dry eye symptoms can sometimes occur or worsen temporarily after surgery. Discussing personal risk factors, current medications, and prior eye or eyelid surgery with the surgical team beforehand is important for safety planning. Results and recovery experiences differ between patients, and no outcome, including symmetry or degree of eyelid opening, can be guaranteed in advance.

MOOi Plastic Surgery Clinic is located at 9F, Glass Tower, 406 Gangnam-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea. The clinic is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 19:00 and Saturday from 10:00 to 17:00, and is closed on Sundays and public holidays. International patients can reach the clinic by phone at +821081431509 or by email at [email protected] to arrange a consultation.

Frequently asked questions

Is ptosis correction purely cosmetic or can it be functional?

It can be both; some patients seek correction mainly for appearance, while others have documented visual field restriction caused by the drooping eyelid, which is assessed separately during consultation.

How long does swelling last after ptosis correction in Seoul?

Most visible swelling and bruising improve within one to two weeks, though subtle changes can continue to settle over several weeks depending on individual healing.

Will both eyelids be treated even if only one appears droopy?

This depends on individual anatomy; sometimes correcting one eyelid highlights a mild asymmetry in the other, which the surgeon will discuss during the pre-surgical evaluation.

Can ptosis return after surgery?

Some degree of recurrence or gradual change over time is possible, particularly with age-related tissue laxity, so results should not be considered a fixed, unchanging state.

Do I need a separate eye exam before considering this procedure?

If there is any concern about visual field impact or an underlying muscular or neurological cause, an eye specialist evaluation is generally recommended before surgical planning proceeds.