Under-Eye Fat Repositioning in Seoul
Under-eye fat repositioning is a surgical procedure designed to address puffiness and shadowing beneath the eyes by adjusting the position of the fat pads that naturally sit in this area rather than removing them outright. For patients considering under-eye fat repositioning in Seoul, this page explains what the procedure involves, who tends to benefit, and what recovery generally looks like at MOOi Plastic Surgery Clinic.
What It Is
As we age, the fat beneath the eyes can shift downward or bulge forward, creating the appearance of persistent bags, hollows, or a tired look that does not go away with sleep or skincare. Under-eye fat repositioning surgically redistributes this existing fat to smooth the transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek, rather than discarding tissue as with traditional fat removal techniques. The goal is a more even, rested contour under the eyes. Because every face is different, the degree of improvement and the final contour will vary from person to person, and results are influenced by skin quality, bone structure, and the amount of fat present before surgery.
Who It Suits
This procedure is generally considered by adults who have visible under-eye bags caused by protruding fat pads, along with mild to moderate hollowing just below them, sometimes referred to as a tear-trough deformity. It may also suit patients who feel their under-eye area looks disproportionately tired or aged compared to the rest of their face. During a consultation, the surgical team assesses whether fat repositioning alone will address the concern, or whether it should be combined with other techniques such as skin trimming or fat grafting, depending on individual anatomy.
Who Should Avoid It
Under-eye fat repositioning is not appropriate for everyone. Patients with active eye infections, uncontrolled systemic conditions such as diabetes or bleeding disorders, or unrealistic expectations about the extent of change achievable should discuss alternatives with their surgeon. Those whose primary concern is fine wrinkling or skin laxity rather than fat displacement may find that other treatments, such as skin resurfacing or a lower eyelid lift, are more suitable. A thorough medical history and eye examination prior to booking helps determine candidacy, and patients on blood thinners or certain medications may need to pause these under medical supervision before surgery.
How the Session Goes
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation, though the exact approach depends on the surgeon's assessment and the extent of correction needed. Most techniques use an internal incision inside the lower eyelid, known as a transconjunctival approach, which leaves no visible external scar. Through this incision, the surgeon carefully releases and repositions the fat pads over the orbital rim to fill in hollow areas and smooth the contour. The procedure is usually completed within a single visit, and patients do not typically stay overnight, though this can vary based on individual circumstances and whether additional procedures are performed at the same time.
Downtime and Recovery
Swelling and bruising around the eyes are expected in the days following surgery and tend to peak within the first 48 to 72 hours. Cold compresses, keeping the head elevated, and avoiding strenuous activity are commonly recommended during the initial recovery period. Most patients find that visible bruising and swelling subside substantially within one to two weeks, though subtle swelling can persist for longer and continue to settle gradually over the following weeks to months. Because the incision is internal, there are no external stitches to remove in most cases. Follow-up visits allow the surgical team to monitor healing and address any concerns. As with any surgical procedure, individual recovery timelines differ based on healing capacity, skin type, and adherence to post-operative care instructions.
Pricing
| Treatment | Price |
|---|---|
| Under-Eye Fat Repositioning | 1,059,000 KRW |
This price reflects the treatment itself; consultation fees, anesthesia, and VAT may apply separately and can vary depending on individual assessment or whether the procedure is combined with other treatments. Patients are encouraged to confirm final costs directly with the clinic during consultation, as pricing is subject to change and may differ based on the complexity of each case.
Safety
Under-eye fat repositioning is performed by the clinic's surgical team, including Dr. Hwang Sungoh, Head Surgeon in Rhinoplasty and Eyelid procedures, who has completed fellowship training at the Royal London Hospital and Kyushu University Hospital, and Dr. Park Yun Yong, Head Surgeon in Facial Bone Contouring and Lifting, who trained at ERASMUS MC in Rotterdam. As with any surgical procedure, risks such as infection, asymmetry, temporary dry eye, or the need for revision surgery exist and should be discussed thoroughly during consultation. No surgical outcome can be guaranteed, and results depend on individual anatomy, healing response, and adherence to aftercare guidance. A detailed pre-operative evaluation, including medical history and eye examination, helps identify and minimize potential complications before proceeding.
Frequently asked questions
How long does under-eye fat repositioning surgery take?
The procedure itself is typically completed within a single visit, though exact timing depends on individual anatomy and whether it is combined with other treatments.
Will there be a visible scar after the procedure?
Most cases use an internal incision inside the lower eyelid, which generally does not leave a visible external scar, though individual healing can vary.
When can I return to work after under-eye fat repositioning in Seoul?
Many patients return to work or normal routines within one to two weeks, once visible bruising and swelling have substantially subsided, though this varies by individual.
Is this procedure the same as removing under-eye fat?
No, this procedure repositions existing fat to smooth the contour rather than removing it, which distinguishes it from traditional fat excision techniques.
Can under-eye fat repositioning be combined with other treatments?
Yes, depending on individual assessment, it may be combined with procedures such as skin trimming or fat grafting to achieve a more balanced result, and this will be discussed during consultation.