Eyes Wide Open: How Korean Eye Surgery Changes Lives
Explore the transformative power of Korean eye surgery, from popular procedures to recovery tips, and discover why Seoul is the go-to destination for life-changing eye enhancements.
Can eye surgery change your life? It seems as though South Korea thinks so, as well as countless others.
Korean eye surgery is a phenomenon; countless individuals flock to the peninsula to improve their appearances and boost their confidence.
In this post, we will explore what surgeries are offered, the risks and benefits, and what to expect during your surgical experience.
Types of Korean Eye Surgeries
Double Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Double eyelid surgery is one of the most popular eye surgeries in South Korea.
The goal of this procedure is to give a natural-appearing crease in the upper eyelid, giving more defined and larger-looking eyes.
There are three main approaches for this surgery:
Non-incision method: This is ideal for those with little or no excess fat or skin in their eyelids. As the name suggests, no incision is made. Rather, the surgeon will create tiny holes and pass suture through these to create the crease.
Partial incision method: This technique is typically used for those without excess skin but with extra fat in their eyelids. A small incision is used to remove excess fat, and as above, the suture is used to create attachments, which are normal in double eyelids.
Full incision method: A more extensive method that involves an incision along the eyelid. This gives the most permanent result of the three techniques. However, because there is a larger incision, there will be a visible scar. In the majority of cases, the scar is minimal and acceptable.
Epicanthoplasty:
The epicanthic fold is the skin fold covering the inner corner of the eye. In this procedure, the corner of your eye is directly towards the nose.
This lengthens the horizontal opening of the eyes, which makes them appear bigger and brighter.
Epicanthoplasty is commonly performed with blepharoplasty, as seen in the below image.
Lateral Canthoplasty:
Canthoplasty corrects drooping or sagging eyelids. The muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues at the corner of the eye are tightened to change the eye’s shape.
Patients often report an improved field of vision after this surgery.
The Surgical Process
Preoperative:
As with any surgical procedure, a careful preoperative evaluation including medical history, medications, allergies, and past surgical history should be performed.
With eye surgery, a detailed ophthalmic examination should be completed before planning any surgery.
This should include an exam addressing tear production and measuring parts of the eye and eyelids, visual field testing, and eyelid photography.
Procedure:
The procedure is typically done in an outpatient setting and often with light sedation and local anesthesia. Your surgeon will discuss which option is best for you.
Recovery:
What to expect during the recovery period:
Most patients have minimal pain
Use ice compresses for up to 72 hours after surgery
Sutures will most likely be removed 5 - 7 days after the procedure
Bruising resolves usually in about 2 weeks
The degree of swelling will depend on the type of incision (if one is used)
Risks and Considerations
No procedure is without risk. A thorough preoperative evaluation should cover these risks, but for completeness, here is a list of possible complications:
Temporary vision problems - Diplopia, or double vision, may be present for a few days after surgery.
Eye closure - This is most often experienced when sleeping. Patients may not be able to fully close their eyes. While this is often temporary, it can be permanent.
Asymmetry - Temporary swelling may cause an imbalance in the appearance of the eyes.
Ectropion - This is a pulling down on the lids. While this is extremely rare, further surgery may be needed to correct this.
While You Recover: Explore All That South Korea Offers!
You have probably traveled a significant distance to have your surgery in South Korea, so while you are here, take the time to experience the richness of South Korea.
Restaurants:
No visit to South Korea would be complete without sampling some of the amazing cuisine. There is so much more to Korean cuisine than kimchi.
Not to disparage the spicy, pickled vegetables, but there are many more dishes available for you to sample while in Korea.
Take time to explore Seoul – enjoy top-class shopping or take a luxury day tour and take in the sights with professional guides who know the area and want you to know it as well!
South Korea offers much for those seeking to improve their appearance. Techniques continue to evolve, advancing beauty standards worldwide. Reducing surgery times as well as length of recovery continue to be refined.
Choosing to have your procedure here means having high-quality surgeons and hospitals as well as an incredible opportunity to explore Korean culture at its best.
We at All About Seoul look forward to making your journey a memorable experience.
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