Eyelid Surgery Korea Cost Guide 2025

Why Choose South Korea for Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery in South Korea generally costs between $1,000 and $4,500 USD. A simple double eyelid surgery (non-incisional) can start at around $1,000, while a more complex procedure like an upper and lower blepharoplasty with ptosis correction may reach $4,500 or more.

Thinking about getting eyelid surgery? You're not alone. And if you're doing your research, you’ve almost certainly heard about South Korea. It’s often called the "plastic surgery capital of the world" for a reason. The skill level there is incredibly high, especially for facial procedures like blepharoplasty (the medical term for eyelid surgery). People from all over the globe fly to Seoul to get procedures done by surgeons who perform these surgeries every single day. But with all that expertise, what’s the one question everyone asks first? "How much is this actually going to cost me?"

It’s a great question, because the answer isn't a single number. The cost of eyelid surgery in South Korea can change a lot based on what you need, who you see, and where you go. Are you looking for a subtle "non-incisional" double eyelid? Or do you need an "incisional" method with ptosis correction to help open your eyes more? Maybe you're looking at lower eyelid surgery to take care of eye bags. All these different procedures come with different price tags.

In this guide, we're going to break down everything you need to know about the costs. We'll look at the prices for different types of eyelid surgery, what factors make the price go up or down, and what's usually included in the quote you get from a clinic in popular areas like Gangnam. Let's get right into all the questions people are asking so you can get a clear picture of what to expect.

What is the average cost of double eyelid surgery in South Korea?

The average cost for a standard double eyelid surgery in South Korea is typically between $1,200 and $2,500 USD. The non-incisional (suture) method is at the lower end of this range, while the incisional method costs more.

This is the most common question, and the price range is a big reason why so many people travel for it. In the United States or the UK, this same procedure can easily cost $4,000 to $7,000. The price in Korea, even at top-tier clinics, is significantly lower.

The "double eyelid" procedure, which creates a crease in the upper eyelid, is the most popular cosmetic surgery in Korea. Because of this high demand and high competition among thousands of clinics, the prices have become very competitive. This doesn't mean a drop in quality; it just means the market is well-established. Your final price will depend on the specific technique the surgeon recommends for your eye shape and goals.

What is the cost difference: non-incisional vs. incisional?

The non-incisional (suture) method is cheaper, usually costing between $1,000 and $1,800. The incisional (full incision) method is more complex and permanent, so it costs more, typically from $1,800 to $3,000.

Understanding these two primary techniques is key to understanding the price. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Non-Incisional (Suture Method): This is for people who have thin eyelid skin and don't need fat or skin removed. The surgeon makes tiny punctures and uses sutures to create the eyelid crease. It's faster, has a much shorter recovery time, and is less expensive. However, there's a small chance the crease could loosen over time.
Incisional Method (Full Incision): This is for people with thicker eyelid skin, excess fat, or significant drooping. The surgeon makes a full incision along the new eyelid line, removes excess tissue, and then stitches the skin to create a permanent, deep crease. It's a more involved surgery, which is why it costs more.

A surgeon will tell you which method is best for you during a consultation. Don't choose based on price alone; the right technique for your anatomy is the most important factor.

How much is upper and lower blepharoplasty in South Korea?

If you get both upper and lower blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) at the same time, you can expect to pay between $3,000 and $5,500 USD in South Korea. This is a common combination procedure for overall eye rejuvenation.

This combination is very popular for patients, often in their 40s and older, who want to address signs of aging. The upper blepharoplasty removes sagging skin from the upper eyelid (which can sometimes even block vision), while the lower blepharoplasty removes or repositions fat to get rid of under-eye bags and puffiness.

Doing them together is more cost-effective than getting them done separately. You save on anesthesia and facility fees, and you only have one recovery period. The price will be at the higher end if the lower eyelid surgery is complex (e.g., requires fat grafting or repositioning) or if the upper eyelid needs ptosis correction.

How much does eyebag removal (lower blepharoplasty) cost in Korea?

The cost for lower eyelid surgery (eyebag removal) in South Korea generally ranges from $1,800 to $3,500. The price depends on the technique, such as whether fat is simply removed (transconjunctival) or repositioned to fill hollows.

For younger patients with good skin elasticity, a surgeon might perform a "transconjunctival" blepharoplasty. This involves an incision inside the lower eyelid, so there are no external scars. Fat is simply removed or repositioned. This is often at the lower end of the price range.

For older patients or those with skin laxity, an incision may be made just below the eyelashes. This allows the surgeon to remove excess skin and reposition fat more effectively to smooth out the under-eye area. This is a more complex procedure and will be priced higher.

How much does ptosis correction cost in South Korea?

Ptosis correction in South Korea typically costs between $1,500 and $3,500. It is often combined with double eyelid surgery, and the total package price may range from $2,500 to $4,500.

This is a crucial question. "Ptosis" is the medical term for a droopy upper eyelid, which is caused by a weak or loose levator muscle (the muscle that lifts the eyelid). It's not a skin problem; it's a muscle problem. Many people mistake ptosis for just needing double eyelid surgery, but if the underlying muscle isn't fixed, the eye will still look sleepy or asymmetrical.

During a consultation, a good surgeon will test the strength of this muscle. If they recommend ptosis correction, it means they will need to tighten that muscle in addition to creating the eyelid crease. This is a more delicate and skilled procedure, which adds to the cost. However, it is essential for achieving a bright, wide-eyed, and symmetrical result.

What is the cost of revision eyelid surgery in Korea?

Revision eyelid surgery in South Korea is more expensive and complex, with costs ranging from $2,500 to $6,000 or more. The final price depends heavily on the complexity of the case and the surgeon's expertise in revision procedures.

Revision surgery is always more difficult than the first surgery. The surgeon has to work with scar tissue and altered anatomy from the previous procedure. This requires a highly specialized and experienced surgeon, as the risk is higher and the goals are often to fix asymmetry, low creases, high creases ("sausage" look), or visible scarring.

Because of this, clinics charge a premium for revision cases. Many of the top "revision specialist" surgeons in Seoul are in high demand and will charge at the very top of this price range. This is one area where you absolutely do not want to "price shop." You should be looking for the best revision specialist you can find.

How does eyelid surgery cost in Korea compare to other countries?

Eyelid surgery in South Korea is 40-70% cheaper than in countries like the United States, UK, or Australia. A procedure that costs $2,000 in Korea could easily cost $5,000 in the US or $4,500 in the UK, without even factoring in the high level of specialization.

This cost difference is the primary driver for medical tourism. The savings are significant, even after you factor in the cost of a flight and hotel. Here’s a quick comparison of average costs for a standard double eyelid procedure:

Country	Average Cost (USD)
South Korea	$1,200 - $2,500
United States	$4,000 - $7,000
United Kingdom	$3,500 - $6,000
Australia	$3,000 - $6,000
Germany	$2,500 - $4,500
Thailand	$1,000 - $2,000

As you can see, South Korea and Thailand are both very affordable. However, South Korea is particularly renowned for the sheer volume and specialization in blepharoplasty, with many surgeons *only* performing eye procedures.

Why is eyelid surgery cheaper in South Korea?

It's cheaper due to high competition, a high volume of procedures, and lower overhead costs. With thousands of clinics in Seoul alone, prices are driven down. This does not mean a compromise in quality; it's a result of a highly advanced and competitive market.

The lower price isn't a red flag; it's a feature of the market. The South Korean government has also actively invested in and promoted the country as a top destination for medical tourism, which helps streamline the process and keep standards high. The surgeons' high level of specialization means they can perform procedures efficiently and safely, which also helps control costs.

What factors influence the final price?

The three main factors are: 1) The Surgeon's Experience: A famous, highly sought-after surgeon costs more. 2) The Clinic's Reputation: A large, premium clinic in Gangnam with more staff and services will be more expensive. 3) The Procedure's Complexity: A simple suture method is cheap, while a complex revision with ptosis correction is expensive.

These are the key variables you need to consider. A "celebrity" surgeon who works on K-pop stars and international clients will have a much higher fee than a skilled but less-famous surgeon. A large hospital with extensive post-op care, translators, and luxury facilities will charge more than a smaller, boutique clinic.

Finally, your own anatomy is the biggest factor. If you need multiple things corrected (e.g., ptosis, thick skin, asymmetry), the surgery will take longer and require more skill, directly increasing the price.

What is included in the eyelid surgery price in Korea?

A typical price quote from a reputable Korean clinic includes the surgeon's fee, anesthesia (usually local or IV sedation), facility fee, pre-operative consultation, and all post-operative follow-up visits, including stitch removal and deswelling treatments.

Clinics in South Korea are very accustomed to international patients and provide transparent, all-in-one pricing. The quote you receive is almost always the final price for the procedure itself. Common inclusions are:

The main surgery
Anesthesiologist's fee
All pre-surgery consultations and 3D-CT scans (if needed)
All post-operative check-ups
Stitch removal (usually 5-7 days after)
Post-op care services like light therapy for deswelling or prescription medication

This makes budgeting much easier, as you don't have to worry about surprise bills for anesthesia or follow-ups, which is common in some other countries.

Are there hidden costs for international patients?

There are generally no "hidden" surgical fees, but you must budget for non-medical costs. These include your flight, accommodation, food, transportation (taxis, subway), and any translation services if the clinic doesn't provide one.

The clinics are very transparent. The "extra" costs are the ones related to your travel. Most clinics in Seoul that cater to foreigners will have free English, Chinese, or Japanese translators on staff. However, if you choose a smaller clinic, you might need to hire one.

You also need to budget for your stay. Most clinics will want you to stay in Seoul for at least 7-10 days for the initial recovery and stitch removal. This means you must factor in the cost of a hotel or Airbnb for that entire period. Some clinics have partnerships with nearby hotels for a discount, so always ask!

Is eyelid surgery in South Korea safe?

Yes, eyelid surgery in South Korea is extremely safe when performed at a reputable, government-accredited clinic. Surgeons are highly specialized, often performing hundreds of blepharoplasties per year, and clinics are held to very high standards of safety and hygiene.

The key word here is "reputable." South Korea has a very high standard of medical care. Surgeons go through extensive training, and the technology in the clinics is state-of-the-art. Because blepharoplasty is the most common procedure, the level of expertise and refinement is arguably the highest in the world.

To ensure safety, you must do your research. Look for clinics that are accredited by the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare. Check for real patient reviews, and make sure your surgeon is a board-certified plastic surgery specialist. Avoid "consultant" fees from agencies and try to talk directly with the clinic.

How do I choose a safe clinic in South Korea?

To choose a safe clinic, check for board-certified surgeons, look for clinic accreditation (from the Ministry of Health), read extensive patient reviews and see before/after photos. Also, ensure they have in-house translators and a clear post-operative care plan.

Here are some practical steps:

Surgeon, Not Clinic: You are choosing a surgeon, not just a building. Look up the specific surgeon's credentials. Are they a "board-certified plastic surgeon"?
Before and Afters: Look at their photo galleries. Do you like their aesthetic? Do the results look natural or "overdone" for your taste? Look for patients with a similar eye shape to yours.
Reviews: Look for reviews from international patients on forums like PurseForum or on platforms like PlacidWay. These often provide very detailed, unbiased experiences.
Consultation: Do an online or in-person consultation. Do they listen to you? Do they explain *why* they are recommending a specific technique? Do you feel comfortable with them and the staff?

What is the recovery time for eyelid surgery in Korea?

Initial recovery is quick. You can expect major swelling and bruising to last 1-2 weeks. Stitches are typically removed after 5-7 days. You can look "normal" and go out in public after about 2-3 weeks, but final, subtle results can take 3-6 months to settle completely.

The recovery for the non-incisional (suture) method is much faster, with most major swelling gone in 5-7 days. For the incisional method, you'll need a solid 2 weeks of downtime. You'll be given instructions on how to use cold compresses to manage swelling and how to clean the incision line.

Clinics in Korea are very proactive with post-op care and will often have you come back 2-3 times in your first week for check-ups and deswelling treatments (like low-level light therapy), which is all included in the price.

Can I combine eyelid surgery with other procedures?

Yes, it is very common to combine eyelid surgery with other procedures like rhinoplasty (a "nose job") or fat grafting to the face. Clinics often provide a "package" discount when you book multiple surgeries at once.

This is another way many international patients maximize the value of their trip. Since you're already traveling and planning for a recovery period, you can save money and time by having multiple procedures done in one session. Common combinations include:

Eyelid Surgery + Rhinoplasty
Eyelid Surgery + Facial Fat Grafting (for a more youthful, full appearance)
Eyelid Surgery + "V-Line" (jaw) surgery

If you are considering this, be sure to discuss it with your surgeon. They will advise you on what is safe to combine and how it will affect your total recovery time and cost.