Ptosis Correction in Seoul: Lifting a Low Upper Eyelid
The short answer
Ptosis correction raises an upper eyelid whose edge sits too low over the iris by tightening or advancing the levator muscle that lifts the lid. In Gangnam it typically costs about KRW 2–4 million, takes 1–1.5 hours under local anesthesia with sedation, and is usually done through the eyelid crease. Swelling lasts about 2 weeks, and the final lid height settles over 3–6 months.
Key facts
- What it treats: An upper lid margin that covers part of the iris
- Typical cost in Gangnam: About KRW 2–4 million
- Procedure time: About 1–1.5 hours
- Anesthesia: Local with sedation (you may be asked to open your eyes during surgery)
- Methods: Incisional levator advancement or non-incisional suture for mild cases
- Visible swelling: About 2 weeks
- Final result: About 3–6 months
What ptosis correction changes
Ptosis means the upper lid margin itself hangs low, covering part of the iris and sometimes the pupil. It is different from extra skin folding over the lid, which is a skin problem rather than a muscle problem. The usual cause is a levator muscle that is weak or has stretched away from the tarsus, the firm plate inside the lid. Some people are born with it; others develop it with age, after eye surgery or with years of hard contact lens wear.
Mild ptosis makes eyes look sleepy or tired, and many people raise their brows to compensate, which can cause forehead lines and headaches. Correction works on the muscle that lifts the lid so the eye opens more easily and evenly. In Korea it is often combined with a double eyelid crease, sometimes marketed as "eye shape correction."
Most often chosen for and combined with
- Eyes that look sleepy or half-closed
- One lid lower than the other
- Forehead strain from lifting the brows to see
- Ptosis after long-term contact lens use
It is commonly paired with incisional double eyelid surgery or upper blepharoplasty.
The procedure, step by step
Crease incision
The surgeon opens the lid along the planned crease, finds the levator and its tendon (aponeurosis), and advances or tightens it onto the tarsus. Many surgeons ask you to open your eyes during surgery to check height and symmetry before tying the final stitches.
Non-incisional option
Mild ptosis can sometimes be treated with buried sutures through tiny punctures, which shortens recovery but suits only small corrections.
Where the incisions are made
Along the crease line, so the scar hides in the fold.
How the scar heals over 12 months
The crease scar is pink for several weeks, then softens. By 6–12 months it typically blends into the fold.
Recovery timeline
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Swelling, mild bruising; lids may not close fully |
| Days 5–7 | Stitches out; use lubricating drops |
| Weeks 2–4 | Most swelling gone; screen use comfortable |
| Months 3–6 | Lid height and crease settle |
Is it right for you?
A good fit if you
- Have true ptosis confirmed by measurement
- Have reasonable levator function
- Have healthy tear production
Another option may suit you better if
- Your lid margin is normal but skin hangs over it: see hooded eyelid surgery
- Your brow sits low, which needs a brow lift
Risks to discuss at your consultation
Ask about under- or over-correction, asymmetry, dry eye, difficulty closing the lid fully for a few weeks, and the chance of a touch-up. Ask whether an eye examination is done first; see eye exams before eyelid surgery.
Ptosis correction cost in Seoul
Typical Gangnam quotes are about KRW 2–4 million for both eyes, higher for revisions or severe ptosis needing a frontalis sling. Learn more about the droopy eyelids condition.
Ptosis correction vs. double eyelid surgery
| Ptosis correction | Double eyelid surgery | |
|---|---|---|
| Works on | Levator muscle | Skin-to-muscle connection |
| Changes eye opening | Yes | No |
| Typical cost | KRW 2–4 million | KRW 1–3 million |
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 do I know if I have ptosis?
If your upper lid edge covers more than about 2 mm of the top of your iris when looking straight ahead, a surgeon may diagnose ptosis after measuring.
Will I be awake during surgery?
Usually you are sedated but able to open your eyes on request, which helps the surgeon set the height accurately.
Can ptosis come back?
Results are long-lasting, but ageing can cause gradual relapse years later.
How long before I can fly home?
Typically about 7 days, once stitches are removed and the lids are checked.
Does contact lens use cause ptosis?
Long-term hard lens use is a known contributor because it can stretch the levator tendon.
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.