Under Eye Filler in Korea: Dark Circle Treatment Guide, Prices & Clinics 2025

Dark circles and hollowed under-eyes are among the most common cosmetic concerns for both locals and international visitors to Korean aesthetic clinics. These visible signs of fatigue, aging, or genetics can make you look perpetually tired, older, and less vibrant than you feel. The good news? Korea's world-renowned skincare industry offers highly effective, affordable solutions through advanced under eye filler treatments.

If you're considering under eye filler treatment in Korea, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—from understanding what causes dark circles to navigating Seoul's clinic options, pricing, treatment procedures, and achieving natural-looking, rejuvenated results.

Understanding Dark Circles: More Than Just Lack of Sleep

Before diving into treatment options, it's crucial to understand that not all dark circles are created equal. The underlying cause determines whether filler treatment will be effective for you.

Types of Dark Circles

Shadow-Type Dark Circles (Volume Loss) This is the most common type and the best candidate for filler treatment. As we age, fat pads beneath our eyes naturally diminish, creating hollow areas known as "tear troughs." These hollows cast shadows that appear as dark circles, especially under certain lighting. Volume loss can start as early as your mid-20s and progressively worsen with age.

Pigmented Dark Circles Some people have actual hyperpigmentation or excess melanin deposits in the under-eye area. This is more common in individuals with darker skin tones and may be caused by genetics, sun exposure, inflammation, or hormonal factors. Filler won't address this type effectively—laser treatments or brightening skincare are better options.

Vascular Dark Circles When blood vessels show through the extremely thin skin under the eyes, they create a bluish or purplish discoloration. This becomes more pronounced with volume loss. Filler can help by adding a layer between the vessels and skin surface, making them less visible.

Combined Type Many people have a combination of volume loss, mild pigmentation, and vascular visibility, which is why Korean clinics often recommend combination treatments for optimal results.

Common Causes

Aging: Natural fat pad atrophy and collagen loss
Genetics: Some families have more pronounced tear troughs
Lifestyle factors: Chronic sleep deprivation, dehydration, smoking
Allergies: Chronic rubbing and inflammation
Sun exposure: Accelerates skin thinning and pigmentation
Facial structure: Deep-set eyes or prominent bone structure

What is Under Eye Filler?

Under eye filler, also called tear trough filler (눈밑 필러 in Korean), is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that involves injecting hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers into the hollowed tear trough area beneath the eyes. The treatment achieves multiple benefits:

How It Works

Restores Volume: Fills the hollow groove between the lower eyelid and upper cheek
Smooths Transitions: Creates a seamless contour from eyelid to cheek
Reduces Shadows: Eliminates the dark appearance caused by hollowing
Minimizes Vessel Visibility: Adds a barrier between blood vessels and thin skin
Provides Immediate Results: Visible improvement right after treatment
Rejuvenates Appearance: Makes you look more refreshed, youthful, and well-rested

The key ingredient in most under eye fillers is hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance naturally found in the human body. HA attracts and retains moisture, providing natural-looking volume without feeling hard or creating an artificial appearance. The best part? HA fillers are reversible using an enzyme called hyaluronidase if you're unsatisfied with results.

Why Choose Korea for Under Eye Filler Treatment?

Korea has earned its reputation as the global capital of aesthetic treatments, and there are compelling reasons to consider getting under eye fillers in Seoul:

Advanced Medical Expertise

Korean dermatologists and plastic surgeons specialize in subtle, natural-looking enhancements rather than dramatic transformations. This philosophy aligns perfectly with under eye filler treatment, where the goal is refreshed rejuvenation, not obvious alterations. Many Korean doctors perform 20-50 under eye filler procedures weekly, giving them exceptional experience with this technically challenging area.

Superior Technology and Products

Korea offers access to both premium international filler brands (Restylane, Juvederm, Belotero) and high-quality Korean-manufactured products (Yvoire, Neuramis). Korean clinics use advanced injection techniques including cannulas instead of needles to minimize bruising and achieve smoother results.

Competitive Pricing

Under eye filler treatments in Korea typically cost 30-60% less than in Western countries. You can expect to pay ₩300,000 to ₩1,200,000 ($230-$920 USD) for a complete treatment, compared to $600-$1,500 in the United States or £400-£900 in the UK.

Experience with Diverse Facial Anatomy

While Korean doctors have extensive experience with Asian facial features, Seoul's position as a medical tourism hub means they're equally skilled at treating international patients of all ethnicities. The principles of tear trough filling remain consistent across different facial structures.

Aesthetic Understanding

Korean beauty culture emphasizes the importance of bright, youthful-looking eyes. This cultural appreciation translates into meticulous attention to detail when performing under eye treatments, ensuring results that look natural yet impactful.

The Under Eye Filler Procedure: Step-by-Step

Understanding what happens during your treatment can help ease anxiety and ensure you're well-prepared.

Pre-Treatment Consultation (15-20 minutes)

Your journey begins with a thorough consultation where the doctor will:

Examine your under-eye area to assess the type and severity of dark circles
Evaluate your candidacy for filler treatment
Discuss your goals and expectations realistically
Explain the procedure, including potential risks and side effects
Recommend the appropriate filler type and amount needed
Take before photos for comparison

This is your opportunity to ask questions and ensure you feel comfortable proceeding. A good doctor will never pressure you and will be honest about whether filler is the right solution for your specific concerns.

Preparation (10-15 minutes)

Before the injection:

Your face is thoroughly cleansed to remove makeup and ensure sterility
Topical numbing cream is generously applied to the under-eye area
You wait 15-20 minutes for the anesthetic to take effect
The doctor marks injection points on your skin
Some clinics apply additional ice for extra numbing

The Injection Process (10-20 minutes)

The actual filler injection is surprisingly quick:

Technique: Most experienced Korean doctors use a blunt-tip cannula rather than a sharp needle. The cannula technique involves creating a tiny entry point and then threading the cannula under the skin to deposit filler along the tear trough. This method results in:

Less bruising compared to needle technique
Smoother, more even distribution
Lower risk of damaging blood vessels
Single entry point rather than multiple injections

Process: The doctor slowly and carefully injects small amounts of filler while frequently pausing to assess symmetry and distribution. They may gently massage the area to ensure smooth integration. Conservative approach is key—it's easier to add more filler later than to dissolve excessive amounts.

Amount: Most patients need 0.5-1cc of filler per eye, though this varies based on the severity of hollowing. Your doctor will start conservatively and can schedule a touch-up appointment 2 weeks later if additional product is needed.

Immediate Aftercare (5-10 minutes)

After injection:

Ice packs are applied to reduce swelling
You're given detailed aftercare instructions
Emergency contact information is provided
You can see immediate (though swollen) results
You're free to leave—no downtime required

The entire appointment typically takes 45-60 minutes from start to finish.

Pain Level

With proper numbing, most patients report minimal discomfort:

Pain rating: 2-4 out of 10
Sensation: Light pressure, slight stinging during injection
Duration: Brief discomfort only during the actual injection phase
Tolerance: Most people find it easily bearable

Types of Fillers Used for Under Eyes in Korea

Not all fillers are suitable for the delicate under-eye area. Korean clinics typically use specialized products with specific properties ideal for thin, sensitive skin.

Premium International Brands

Restylane A Swedish-manufactured hyaluronic acid filler with a proven safety record. Restylane creates natural-looking volume and has excellent longevity (12-16 months). It's one of the most popular choices for under eye treatment in Korea.

Price: ₩300,000-₩500,000 ($230-$385) per 1cc
Duration: 12-16 months
Best for: Those wanting longer-lasting results

Juvederm Volbella Specifically designed for delicate facial areas, Volbella has an ultra-smooth consistency that integrates well with thin skin. Its formulation minimizes the risk of lumps or the "Tyndall effect" (bluish discoloration).

Price: ₩350,000-₩600,000 ($270-$460) per 1cc
Duration: 10-12 months
Best for: First-time filler patients, very thin skin

Belotero Balance Known for excellent integration into tissue, Belotero is often considered the gold standard for under-eye filler due to its low risk of Tyndall effect and smooth, natural results.

Price: ₩300,000-₩550,000 ($230-$425) per 1cc
Duration: 10-14 months
Best for: Minimizing complication risk

Korean-Manufactured Brands

Yvoire Classic A popular Korean filler with smooth consistency suitable for tear trough filling. Manufactured by LG Chem, it offers good quality at a more affordable price point.

Price: ₩150,000-₩250,000 ($115-$190) per 1cc
Duration: 8-12 months
Best for: Budget-conscious patients

Neuramis Light Another Korean option with fine particles that integrate smoothly into delicate tissue. The "Light" variant has lower viscosity, making it appropriate for thin under-eye skin.

Price: ₩120,000-₩200,000 ($90-$155) per 1cc
Duration: 8-12 months
Best for: Minor corrections, cost-effective option

Which Filler Should You Choose?

Your doctor will recommend based on:

Your skin thickness and sensitivity
Severity of tear troughs
Budget considerations
Desired longevity
Risk tolerance

General recommendation: For first-time under-eye filler, premium brands like Belotero or Juvederm Volbella offer the best safety profile despite higher cost. The under-eye area is not the place to cut corners—complications here are more visible and challenging to correct.

Under Eye Filler Pricing in Korea: Complete Breakdown

Understanding the pricing structure helps you budget appropriately and identify reasonable rates versus suspiciously low prices that may indicate inexperienced providers or counterfeit products.

Average Price Range (2025)

Basic Under Eye Filler Treatment

₩300,000 - ₩600,000 ($230 - $460 USD)
Includes: 0.5-1cc of filler, consultation, numbing, injection, aftercare

Premium Filler Brands

₩600,000 - ₩1,200,000 ($460 - $920 USD)
Uses: Top-tier international brands like Restylane, Juvederm, Belotero

Comprehensive Dark Circle Treatment Package

₩1,000,000 - ₩1,500,000 ($770 - $1,150 USD)
Combines: Filler with laser treatment for pigmentation, or multiple filler types

Factors Affecting Price

Filler Brand and Quality Premium international brands cost more than Korean-manufactured alternatives, though both can deliver excellent results when properly administered.

Amount of Product Used Most patients need 0.5-1cc per eye (1-2cc total). Severe hollowing may require more product, increasing the total cost.

Clinic Location Clinics in premium Seoul neighborhoods command higher prices:

Gangnam & Apgujeong: ₩500,000-₩1,200,000 ($385-$920)
Myeongdong & Jung-gu: ₩400,000-₩800,000 ($310-$615)
Hongdae & Sinsa: ₩350,000-₩700,000 ($270-$540)
Other areas: ₩300,000-₩600,000 ($230-$460)

Doctor's Experience and Reputation Highly experienced specialists or celebrity doctors charge premium rates, but their expertise significantly reduces complication risk—especially important for the challenging under-eye area.

Package Deals and Promotions Many clinics offer discounts when combining treatments:

Under eye filler + Botox: ₩800,000-₩1,500,000 ($615-$1,150)
Full face filler (multiple areas): ₩1,500,000-₩3,000,000 ($1,150-$2,300)

International Price Comparison

Country	Average Cost (USD)	Korea Savings
South Korea	$230 - $920	Baseline
United States	$600 - $1,500	Save 40-60%
United Kingdom	$500 - $1,100	Save 35-55%
Australia	$550 - $1,030	Save 30-50%
Singapore	$500 - $1,200	Save 25-45%

Bottom line: Even when factoring in travel costs, combining under eye filler with a Seoul vacation can result in significant savings while accessing world-class expertise.

Results, Duration, and Maintenance

What to Expect Immediately After Treatment

Immediate Results You'll see instant improvement in under-eye hollowing, though initial swelling may make results appear more dramatic than the final outcome. Don't judge results until swelling subsides (typically 7-10 days).

Common Side Effects (Normal)

Swelling: Moderate to significant, especially in the first 48 hours
Bruising: Occurs in 30-50% of patients, typically mild with cannula technique
Tenderness: Mild soreness when touching the area
Asymmetry: Due to swelling; resolves as healing progresses
Watery eyes: Temporary for the first few hours

Final Results Timeline

Day 1-3: Peak swelling, may look overfilled
Day 4-7: Swelling decreases significantly
Day 7-14: Results become more apparent
Week 2-4: Final results visible, filler fully integrated

Most patients can resume normal activities immediately, though you should avoid strenuous exercise for 5-7 days and follow all aftercare instructions carefully.

How Long Does Under Eye Filler Last?

Average Duration: 6-12 months

Factors Affecting Longevity:

Filler type: Premium brands tend to last longer (10-16 months vs. 8-12 months)
Individual metabolism: Faster metabolism breaks down HA more quickly
Lifestyle: Smoking, excessive sun exposure, and dehydration reduce duration
Activity level: High-impact activities may accelerate filler breakdown
Amount used: Conservative amounts may fade faster than adequate fill

Good news: Under eye filler often lasts longer than lip filler due to less movement in the tear trough area. Some patients find results lasting 12-18 months with premium products.

Maintenance and Touch-Ups

First Touch-Up: 6-12 months after initial treatment

Subsequent Treatments: Most patients establish a maintenance schedule of touch-ups every 10-14 months. Since some residual filler often remains, maintenance sessions typically require less product than the initial treatment, making them more cost-effective.

Building Gradually: Many experienced practitioners recommend a conservative initial treatment followed by a 2-week touch-up if needed. This approach minimizes complication risk while achieving optimal results.

Potential Side Effects and How to Minimize Risks

While under eye filler is generally safe when performed by qualified professionals, it's important to understand potential complications.

Common, Temporary Side Effects

These occur frequently but resolve on their own:

Swelling (70-90% of patients): Usually resolves within 7-10 days
Bruising (30-50%): Fades within 7-14 days; less common with cannula technique
Tenderness (60-80%): Mild discomfort for 3-7 days
Redness (40-60%): Disappears within 24-48 hours

Under-Eye-Specific Complications

Tyndall Effect (틴들현상) A bluish or grayish discoloration occurs when filler is placed too superficially or in excessive amounts, causing light to scatter through the thin skin. This is one of the most common under-eye filler complications.

Prevention: Use specialized soft fillers designed for thin skin (like Belotero), ensure deep placement, choose experienced injectors

Treatment: Can be dissolved with hyaluronidase enzyme; usually resolves completely

Lumps or Bumps Uneven distribution can create visible or palpable irregularities.

Prevention: Slow, careful injection technique; proper massage; conservative amounts

Treatment: Gentle massage (if appropriate timing), hyaluronidase if persistent

Migration Filler can move from the intended injection site if not properly placed or if the area is excessively manipulated.

Prevention: Use cohesive fillers, avoid touching/rubbing area, follow aftercare instructions

Treatment: Hyaluronidase to dissolve, or wait for natural absorption

Worsened Eye Bags In some cases, adding filler can make existing fat pads (eye bags) appear more prominent.

Prevention: Proper patient selection (filler contraindicated for significant eye bags), conservative approach

Treatment: Hyaluronidase; severe cases may require surgical correction

Serious (But Rare) Complications

Vascular Occlusion (<0.1% of cases) Extremely rare but serious complication where filler accidentally blocks a blood vessel, potentially causing tissue damage or, in extremely rare cases, vision problems.

Symptoms: Severe pain, sudden vision changes, skin turning white or mottled

Action: Immediate emergency treatment required—contact your doctor immediately

Prevention: Choose highly experienced injectors who understand facial vascular anatomy

How to Minimize All Risks

✅ Select an experienced, board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon ✅ Verify they specialize in under eye filler treatments ✅ Ensure authentic, high-quality filler products are used ✅ Start with conservative amounts ✅ Follow all pre- and post-treatment instructions meticulously ✅ Choose fillers specifically designed for delicate under-eye area ✅ Report any concerning symptoms immediately

Remember: Hyaluronic acid fillers are reversible. If you're unhappy with results or experience complications, hyaluronidase can dissolve the filler within 24-48 hours.

Who is a Good Candidate for Under Eye Filler?

Not everyone with dark circles benefits from filler treatment. Ideal candidates have specific characteristics:

Excellent Candidates

✅ Hollowed tear troughs creating shadows ✅ Shadow-type dark circles (not pigmentation) ✅ Mild to moderate volume loss ✅ Minimal or no protruding eye bags ✅ Realistic expectations about results ✅ Good overall health ✅ No allergies to hyaluronic acid or lidocaine ✅ Age 25-65 (though age alone isn't a restriction)

Poor Candidates

❌ Significant protruding eye bags (may worsen appearance; surgery more appropriate) ❌ Primarily pigmented dark circles (laser or topical treatments better) ❌ Excessive loose skin (may need blepharoplasty instead) ❌ Very thin skin with prominent vessels (higher complication risk) ❌ Active infections or skin conditions in treatment area ❌ Bleeding disorders or taking blood thinners ❌ Pregnancy or breastfeeding ❌ Unrealistic expectations (seeking perfection rather than improvement)

Alternative or Complementary Treatments

If under eye filler isn't suitable or you want enhanced results, Korean clinics offer:

For Pigmentation-Type Dark Circles:

Laser treatments (Q-switched, Pico laser)
Chemical peels
Brightening topical treatments
Vitamin C therapy

For Significant Eye Bags:

Lower blepharoplasty (surgical eye bag removal)
Fat repositioning procedures
Non-surgical fat reduction

For Skin Quality:

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy
Rejuran skin boosters
Laser skin resurfacing
Microneedling with growth factors

Combination Approach: Many patients achieve best results by combining under eye filler with complementary treatments. Your doctor can recommend a personalized treatment plan.

Finding the Right Clinic in Seoul

Choosing the right clinic and doctor is crucial for safe, natural-looking results. Here's how to navigate Seoul's abundant aesthetic clinic options:

Top Areas in Seoul for Aesthetic Treatments

Gangnam District (강남) The epicenter of Korean beauty treatments, Gangnam (especially near stations exits 10 and 11) features hundreds of aesthetic clinics.

Pros: Highest concentration of experienced doctors, English-speaking staff, modern facilities, extensive clinic selection Cons: Premium pricing, very busy, can feel overwhelming

Apgujeong & Cheongdam (압구정/청담) Upscale neighborhoods where Korean celebrities get their treatments.

Pros: VIP service, cutting-edge technology, top-tier specialists Cons: Highest prices in Seoul, less tourist-oriented than Gangnam

Myeongdong & Jung-gu (명동/중구) Central Seoul location convenient for tourists.

Pros: Easy access, tourist-friendly, good value, English widely spoken Cons: Fewer specialized clinics compared to Gangnam

Sinsa & Garosu-gil (신사/가로수길) Trendy area with modern clinics and boutique aesthetic centers.

Pros: Good balance of quality and price, less crowded than Gangnam Cons: Fewer options specifically for medical tourists

Essential Criteria for Choosing a Clinic

1. Qualified Medical Professionals ✅ Verify the doctor is a licensed dermatologist or plastic surgeon ✅ Check their specific experience with under eye filler (ask how many procedures monthly) ✅ Look for specialists in non-surgical facial rejuvenation

2. Communication ✅ Confirm English-speaking staff or translators are available ✅ Test communication before booking (via email, KakaoTalk, or phone) ✅ Ensure you can understand all instructions and ask questions comfortably

3. Product Authenticity ✅ Verify the clinic uses genuine, KFDA or FDA-approved fillers ✅ Ask to see the sealed product package before treatment ✅ Be wary of prices significantly below market rate (may indicate counterfeit products)

4. Facility Standards ✅ Clean, modern, professional environment ✅ Proper sterilization protocols visible ✅ Legitimate medical facility (not just a beauty salon)

5. Portfolio and Reviews ✅ Review before/after photos of actual under eye filler cases ✅ Look for natural-looking results similar to your goals ✅ Read reviews from international patients (check multiple platforms)

6. Thorough Consultation ✅ Doctor provides detailed consultation before recommending treatment ✅ Explains procedure, risks, realistic expectations clearly ✅ Never pressures you or pushes aggressive upselling ✅ Discusses what happens if complications occur

Warning Signs to Avoid

🚩 Prices far below market rate (suspiciously cheap) 🚩 No licensed medical doctor performing injections 🚩 Aggressive sales tactics or pressure to book immediately 🚩 Unable to show authentic product packaging 🚩 No before/after portfolio for under eye work 🚩 Poor or nonexistent international patient reviews 🚩 Unclear about what filler brand they use 🚩 Promises "perfect" results or dismisses risks 🚩 No clear policy for handling complications

Booking Your Treatment: Practical Guide

Before Your Trip

Research Phase (2-4 weeks before)

Research 3-5 clinics that specialize in under eye fillers
Read reviews from international patients on multiple platforms
Check clinic websites and social media for portfolios
Contact clinics via email or KakaoTalk to:
- Confirm English support
- Ask about pricing
- Inquire about doctor's experience
- Request consultation availability

Booking Phase (1-2 weeks before)

Schedule consultations at 2-3 top-choice clinics
Book appointments in advance (peak seasons require early booking)
Confirm exact pricing and payment methods
Ask about cancellation policies

Preparation Phase (1 week before)

Stop taking blood-thinning medications/supplements (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E) after consulting your regular doctor
Avoid alcohol for 3 days before treatment
Get adequate sleep to minimize existing under-eye puffiness
Prepare any medical history information or allergy lists

What to Bring

Essential Documents

Passport (for identification)
Travel insurance information
List of current medications and allergies
Photos of your eyes when you looked your best (helps doctor understand your goals)

Payment Most Korean aesthetic clinics accept:

Cash (Korean Won) - often preferred
Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
International debit cards
Some accept Alipay, WeChat Pay, or UnionPay

Tip: Bring sunglasses to wear after treatment (you'll have swelling).

Timing Considerations

Best Timing During Your Trip

Schedule treatment early in your trip (allows swelling to subside before return)
Allow 7-10 days between treatment and important events/photos
Book follow-up appointment 2 weeks later if you'll still be in Korea

Best Seasons

Spring and Fall offer mild weather (less swelling from heat)
Avoid peak summer (heat exacerbates swelling)
Winter is fine but protect skin from cold and wind during healing

Typical Appointment Flow

Consultation (First visit if not combined with treatment)

20-30 minutes
Assessment and recommendation
Questions answered
Booking treatment if satisfied

Treatment Day

Arrive 10 minutes early
Complete paperwork/payment
Consultation review (if same-day treatment)
Preparation and numbing (15 minutes)
Injection procedure (10-20 minutes)
Aftercare instructions (10 minutes)
Total time: 45-60 minutes

Optional Follow-Up (2 weeks later)

Assessment of results
Touch-up if needed (often included or discounted)
Final photos

Aftercare Instructions for Optimal Results

Proper aftercare is critical for minimizing side effects and achieving the best possible outcome.

First 24-48 Hours (Critical Period)

DO: ✅ Apply ice packs regularly (10-15 minutes every hour while awake) ✅ Sleep with head elevated on 2-3 pillows to reduce swelling ✅ Stay upright as much as possible (avoid lying flat) ✅ Keep area clean but avoid rubbing ✅ Stay hydrated with plenty of water ✅ Take arnica tablets if recommended (reduces bruising)

DON'T: ❌ Touch, rub, or massage the treated area (critical!) ❌ Sleep face-down or on your side (can cause migration) ❌ Wear makeup on the under-eye area (wait 24 hours minimum) ❌ Exercise or engage in strenuous activity ❌ Drink alcohol (increases swelling and bruising) ❌ Take hot showers or apply heat to the face ❌ Bend over repeatedly (increases blood flow to face) ❌ Cry (sounds odd, but increases swelling dramatically)

First Week

Continue:

Ice application as needed for swelling
Sleeping elevated on back
Gentle cleansing (avoid rubbing)
Staying well-hydrated

Avoid:

Strenuous exercise (wait 5-7 days)
Saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga (wait 7 days)
Facial massages or aggressive skincare treatments
Direct sun exposure (wear sunglasses)
Alcohol consumption (wait 3-5 days)
Blood-thinning medications unless prescribed

Normal During This Time:

Moderate to significant swelling (peaks days 1-3)
Possible bruising (appears days 2-4, fades by day 10-14)
Tenderness when touching
Asymmetry (due to swelling)
Feeling of fullness or tightness

Week 2-4

Swelling should be mostly resolved by week 2
Final results become apparent
Filler fully integrates with tissue
Schedule touch-up appointment if needed
Resume all normal activities

Long-Term Care

Protect Your Investment:

Use daily sunscreen (SPF 30+) on under-eye area
Maintain healthy lifestyle (adequate sleep, hydration)
Use gentle eye creams and avoid harsh products
Remove eye makeup carefully without excessive rubbing
Consider periodic maintenance treatments every 10-14 months

When to Contact Your Doctor Immediately

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Severe pain that doesn't improve with over-the-counter pain relief
Vision changes of any kind
Skin blanching (turning white) or mottling
Extreme swelling that worsens after 48 hours
Signs of infection: fever, increasing redness, pus, warmth
Persistent bluish discoloration (Tyndall effect) that doesn't improve

Remember: Most side effects are normal and temporary, but it's always better to check with your doctor if you're concerned.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does under eye filler hurt? With proper topical numbing cream applied for 15-20 minutes before treatment, most patients report minimal discomfort (2-4 out of 10 pain scale). The sensation is typically described as pressure or slight stinging rather than sharp pain. Korean clinics prioritize patient comfort and use techniques to minimize discomfort.

Can I wear makeup after under eye filler? You should wait at least 12-24 hours before applying makeup to the treated area to minimize infection risk and allow initial healing. When you do resume makeup, apply very gently without rubbing or pulling on the under-eye area.

Will people notice I've had filler? When performed correctly by an experienced practitioner using appropriate products and amounts, under eye filler should look completely natural. People may notice you look more refreshed and well-rested, but they typically won't identify that you've had a cosmetic procedure. The goal is subtle enhancement, not obvious transformation.

What if I don't like the results? One of the significant advantages of hyaluronic acid fillers is that they're reversible. If you're unhappy with results, the filler can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase within 24-48 hours. This provides a safety net that permanent treatments don't offer.

How much filler will I need? Most patients require 0.5-1cc of filler per eye (1-2cc total) for under eye treatment. The exact amount depends on the severity of hollowing, your anatomy, and desired results. Experienced doctors start conservatively and can add more at a 2-week touch-up if needed.

Is there an age limit for under eye filler? There's no strict age requirement, though most patients are between late 20s and 60s. The determining factor is whether you have volume loss creating tear troughs and dark circles, which can occur at various ages depending on genetics and lifestyle.

Can under eye filler fix my puffy eye bags? No. Filler addresses volume loss and hollowing, not protruding fat pads (eye bags). In fact, adding filler when significant eye bags are present can worsen the appearance of puffiness. For prominent eye bags, lower blepharoplasty (surgical fat removal or repositioning) is more appropriate.

How long is the recovery time? There's no mandatory downtime—you can resume most normal activities immediately. However, visible swelling typically lasts 3-7 days, with potential bruising for 7-14 days. Plan accordingly before important events or photos. Most people feel comfortable returning to social activities within a week.

Are Korean filler brands safe? Yes, Korean-manufactured fillers like Yvoire and Neuramis are regulated by the Korean FDA (KFDA) and have good safety records when used appropriately. However, for the delicate under-eye area, many doctors recommend premium international brands like Belotero or Restylane due to their specific formulations for thin skin and lower complication rates.

Can I combine under eye filler with other treatments? Absolutely. Many patients combine under eye filler with Botox (for crow's feet), cheek filler (for comprehensive midface rejuvenation), or laser treatments (for pigmented dark circles). Combination treatments often provide more comprehensive results. Discuss your goals with your doctor for a personalized treatment plan.

Medical Disclaimer

This article provides general information about under eye filler treatments in Korea for educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice and should not replace consultation with qualified healthcare professionals.

Under eye filler is a medical procedure that carries inherent risks, including but not limited to: swelling, bruising, lumps, Tyndall effect, migration, infection, vascular occlusion, and vision complications. Not all individuals are suitable candidates for this treatment.

Results vary based on individual anatomy, skin characteristics, filler type, injector technique, and numerous other factors. Before undergoing any cosmetic procedure, consult with a licensed, board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who can assess your specific situation and provide personalized recommendations.

Always verify the credentials of any medical professional and the authenticity of products used. The information in this guide is accurate as of January 2025 but medical techniques, products, and recommendations may evolve over time.

Seoul Skin Guide does not endorse specific clinics, doctors, or products mentioned in this article and is not responsible for any outcomes resulting from treatments obtained based on this information. Perform your own thorough research and due diligence before selecting a provider.

Conclusion: Achieve Brighter, More Youthful Eyes in Korea

Under eye filler offers a transformative solution for tear troughs and dark circles caused by volume loss, providing immediate, natural-looking results that can take years off your appearance. Korea's combination of advanced medical expertise, competitive pricing, and aesthetic excellence makes it an ideal destination for this treatment.

The key to successful under eye filler treatment lies in:

Choosing an experienced, qualified doctor who specializes in this challenging area
Using appropriate filler products designed for delicate under-eye skin
Starting with conservative amounts and building gradually if needed
Following aftercare instructions meticulously for optimal healing
Maintaining realistic expectations about what filler can and cannot achieve

While under eye filler is highly effective for hollow tear troughs and shadow-type dark circles, it's not suitable for everyone. A thorough consultation with a qualified professional will determine whether you're a good candidate and what realistic results you can expect.

With prices 30-60% lower than Western countries and access to some of the world's most skilled practitioners, combining under eye filler treatment with your Seoul vacation offers both financial value and exceptional results.

Ready to achieve brighter, more refreshed eyes? Research your options carefully, choose quality over the lowest price, prepare for some temporary swelling, and get ready to enjoy a more youthful, well-rested appearance. The journey to rejuvenated eyes starts with a single consultation—and Seoul's expert aesthetic doctors are ready to help you look and feel your best.

Ready to explore Korean aesthetic treatments? Check out our other comprehensive guides on Seoul Skin Guide for everything from cheek fillers to laser treatments, clinic recommendations, and navigating Seoul's beauty districts.

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