What Is Tear Trough Correction Surgery?

Tear Trough Correction Surgery (눈물고랑 교정술) is a specialized under-eye procedure that smooths the hollow groove between the lower eyelid and cheek, often referred to as the tear trough.
At QD Plastic Surgery Clinic in Gangnam, Dr. Hong performs this surgery to correct deep hollows, dark shadows, and tired-looking eyes by repositioning or supplementing the under-eye fat for a natural, youthful appearance.

Who Needs Tear Trough Correction?

You may be a candidate if you experience:

• Deep hollow lines extending from the inner corner of the eyes
• Persistent dark circles or shadowing even with sleep
• Volume loss caused by aging or previous fat removal
• Uneven contour after filler or eye bag surgery
• A tired or sunken appearance around the eyes

This procedure is ideal for those seeking a long-lasting solution that looks natural and harmonizes with the cheek area.

How Tear Trough Correction Works

Dr. Hong carefully redistributes existing under-eye fat or adds micro-fat grafts to fill in the tear trough depression. The goal is to create a smooth transition between the lower eyelid and the upper cheek while minimizing visible scarring and maintaining natural expression.

Techniques Used at QD Plastic Surgery

1. Fat Repositioning (재배치 방식)

Dr. Hong repositions existing under-eye fat to fill the hollow groove without removing it—ideal for patients with mild to moderate hollowness and eye bags.
✅ Natural improvement
✅ Minimal downtime
✅ No need for external filler

2. Micro-Fat Grafting (자가지방이식)

A small amount of purified fat from the thigh or abdomen is injected to add volume where needed.
✅ Smooths severe hollowness
✅ Improves skin texture and color over time

3. Hybrid Correction (Repositioning + Fat Graft)

For complex or revision cases, Dr. Hong combines both methods for a balanced and durable result.
✅ Corrects contour and skin tone simultaneously
✅ Long-lasting results with minimal reabsorption

Step-by-Step Procedure

StepDescriptionConsultation3D analysis of under-eye and cheek transition by Dr. HongAnesthesiaLocal anesthesia with sedationSurgeryFat repositioning or grafting via internal incision (no visible scar)RecoveryMild swelling for 3–7 days; normal activities after 1 weekResultsFinal results visible within 1–2 months

Benefits of Tear Trough Correction Surgery

✨ Restores youthful under-eye contour
✨ Reduces dark shadows and tired appearance
✨ Long-lasting, natural correction (unlike filler)
✨ No visible external scar
✨ Can be combined with eye bag or rejuvenation procedures

Recovery & Aftercare Tips

🩹 Apply cold compresses for the first 48 hours
🩹 Avoid rubbing or applying pressure to the area
🩹 Sleep with head elevated to reduce swelling
🩹 No heavy exercise or alcohol for 1 week
🩹 Attend follow-up visits for safe recovery and assessment

Estimated Cost in Seoul

💰 Fat Repositioning Only : ₩2.5 – ₩3.5 million
💰 Micro-Fat Grafting Only : ₩2 – ₩3 million
💰 Combined Correction (Repositioning + Graft) : ₩3.5 – ₩4.5 million
(Exact cost depends on anatomy, method, and surgical complexity.)

Why Choose Dr. Hong at QD Plastic Surgery

• Expert in under-eye surgery and revision correction
• Delivers natural, scar-free, and balanced results
• Specializes in tear trough and eye bag revision cases
• Centrally located in Sinnonhyeon, Gangnam with easy subway access
• English, Chinese, and Japanese consultations available