Eye Widening Surgery in Seoul: Opening the Whole Eye Outline
The short answer
Eye widening surgery makes the eyes look larger and more open by combining only the steps your eye shape needs: opening the inner corner (epicanthoplasty), extending or supporting the outer corner (lateral canthoplasty or canthopexy) and often adding a double eyelid crease. In Gangnam combined plans typically cost about KRW 2.5–6 million, take 1–2 hours, and need about 2 weeks for visible swelling to settle.
Key facts
- Components: Epicanthoplasty, lateral canthoplasty, canthopexy, double eyelid crease, ptosis correction
- Typical cost in Gangnam: About KRW 2.5–6 million
- Procedure time: About 1–2 hours
- Anesthesia: Local with sedation
- Stitches out: About 5–7 days
- Visible swelling: About 2 weeks
- Final shape: About 3–6 months
How eye widening works
How open your eyes look depends on the whole outline, not just the crease. An epicanthal fold, a small web of skin over the inner corner, can hide part of the eye. A short or downward-sitting outer corner makes the eye end early. A low lid margin or absent crease makes the eye look smaller still. Changing only one of these can leave the eye looking unbalanced.
Eye widening treats these parts together, but selectively. Epicanthoplasty opens the inner corner. Lateral canthoplasty extends the outer corner, and canthopexy tightens the outer corner tendon to support and slightly lift it. A double eyelid crease is often added to frame the eye from above, and ptosis correction is included if the lid sits low. A careful surgeon picks only the steps your anatomy needs rather than selling a fixed package.
Most often chosen for and combined with
- Eyes that look narrow or small for the face
- A prominent epicanthal fold
- A short or downturned outer corner
- Wanting a softer, more open gaze
See canthoplasty or epicanthoplasty to understand which corner matters for you.
The procedure, step by step
Design the shape
The surgeon measures the distance between your inner corners, the eye length and the tilt of the line between corners. Ideal changes are small; 1–3 mm at each corner can noticeably change the look.
Where the incisions are made
Small incisions at the inner corner (often Z-plasty or redraping), a tiny cut at the outer corner, and the crease line if a double eyelid is added.
How the scar heals over 12 months
Inner corner scars are the most watched; they are pink for 1–3 months and usually fade by 6–12 months. Outer corner scars are typically hard to see.
Recovery timeline
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Swelling, tight feeling at corners |
| Days 5–7 | Stitches removed |
| Weeks 2–3 | Presentable with makeup |
| Months 3–6 | Corners and crease settle |
Is it right for you?
A good fit if you
- Have identifiable features narrowing the eye
- Want a modest, balanced change
- Can stay 7–10 days in Seoul
Another option may suit you better if
- The main issue is a low lid margin: ptosis correction alone may be enough
- Your eyes are already widely spaced; opening the inner corner may unbalance them
Risks to discuss at your consultation
Ask about visible inner corner scars, over-correction that exposes too much pink tissue, outer corner relapse, asymmetry and dryness. Ask how reversible each step is, because inner corner over-correction is difficult to undo.
Eye widening surgery cost in Seoul
Combined plans in Gangnam typically cost KRW 2.5–6 million, depending on how many steps are included. Ask for each component priced separately.
Eye widening vs. ptosis correction
| Eye widening | Ptosis correction | |
|---|---|---|
| Changes width | Yes (corners) | No |
| Changes vertical opening | Sometimes | Yes |
| Typical cost | KRW 2.5–6 million | KRW 2–4 million |
Our eye shape surgery guide for international patients covers planning in more detail.
This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Prices are typical ranges reported by Gangnam clinics in 2026 and vary by clinic, doctor and treatment plan; confirm directly with the clinic.
Patient questions
Frequently asked questions
How much wider will my eyes look?
Most changes are a few millimetres at each corner, which can look significant because the eye is small.
Do I need all the steps?
No. A good surgeon recommends only what your anatomy needs and explains why.
Are inner corner scars visible?
They can be pink for a few months but usually fade well with good technique and scar care.
Can outer corner surgery relapse?
Yes, the outer corner tends to tighten back somewhat; ask your surgeon how much relapse to expect.
How long until I can fly?
Usually about 7 days, after stitch removal and a check-up.
Not sure which Gangnam clinic is right for you?
Tell us your goals, budget and travel dates. Our English-speaking coordinators compare doctor-led clinics and usually reply with free quotes within 24 hours.