Definition & Purpose

• Under-eye fat repositioning (also called “fat relocation” or “fat redistribution”) involves repositioning the natural fat pads beneath the lower eyelids to fill hollows (tear troughs) and smooth the transition between the eyelid and cheek.
• Instead of simply removing bulging fat (which can leave hollows), the technique often relocates the fat inward or downward into sunken areas to create a smoother contour.
• It may also involve reinforcing the orbital septum (the membrane that supports orbital fat) to reduce recurrence of fat bulge and bagginess.

  Why it’s popular in Seoul, Korea

• Seoul clinics are highly experienced in lower-eyelid surgery and under-eye rejuvenation. Korea has a strong reputation in aesthetic facial surgery and eye-area refinements.
• The technique offers a more lasting, structural solution compared to fillers alone, especially for under-eye hollows + bags combination.
• Transconjunctival (inner-lid incision) approaches are commonly used by Seoul clinics, leaving no visible outer scars.
  Pre-operative consultation
• The surgeon assesses under-eye fat bulge, hollowness (tear trough), skin laxity, muscular/ligament structure.
• They will design the fat reposition plan: how much fat to move/remove, where to redistribute it, whether additional skin tightening or canthopexy is needed.
• Discussion of risks, downtime, realistic results.

  Surgical steps (general)

• Typically done under sedation/local anesthesia; hospital stay often not required. girinpsen.com+1
• A small incision is made in the inner lower eyelid (transconjunctival) so there’s no visible scar outside.
• Protruding fat may be removed or trimmed; remaining fat is repositioned to fill hollows (tear-trough) and smooth the under-eye contour.
• The septum or support structures may be reinforced to prevent recurrence of bulging or sagging. woori-ps.com+1
• Closure and minimal dressings.

  Recovery & downtime

• Swelling and bruising are common; most return to non-strenuous activities within a few days to a week.
• Visible results may begin early, but full contour refinement may take several weeks as swelling resolves and fat settles.
• Follow-care may include avoiding heavy exercise, significant sun exposure, and ensuring hygiene of the eyelid area.

  How much does it cost?

• Costs vary widely depending on surgeon, complexity (bags + hollows + skin laxity), whether bilateral, clinic prestige.
• As a rough guideline, some Seoul clinics list under-eye fat repositioning starts from about ₩1,000,000 (~US$700) or more.
• Higher complexity or premium clinics will charge more.

  Who is a Good Candidate / Who might need something else

  Good candidates:

• People with under-eye bags (fat bulge) and hollow tear-troughs or transitions (rather than just surface dark circles).
• Those seeking a relatively lasting surgical solution (rather than filler) for visible contour irregularities.
• Good overall health, realistic expectations, willingness for downtime.

  Less ideal candidates / Considerations:

• If the under-eye issue is mostly pigmentation (skin colour), or just skin laxity without fat bulge/hollowing, then fat repositioning alone may not fully address it. woori-ps.com
• Very thin individuals with minimal fat in the area may require fat grafting in addition (or alternative filler/implant options).
• Significant skin excess or eyelid malposition may require different or additional surgery (skin excision, canthoplasty).
• As with any surgery: risks of bleeding, infection, asymmetry, and variable healing.

  Key Questions to Ask the Clinic / Surgeon

• Are you performing the fat repositioning (relocating fat) rather than just removal?
• Which incision approach will you use (inner conjunctiva vs external)?
• Will support structures (orbital septum, ligament) be reinforced?
• What is the expected downtime (days till makeup, return to work)?
• Can you show before/after cases similar to my anatomy?
• What is your revision policy in case of under-correction or asymmetry?
• What is the full cost including follow-ups, dressings, medications?
• What are realistic long-term results (e.g., will hollows return, will bags recur)?

  Practical Tips Before Booking

• Have recent photos of your under-eye area (straight, smiling) to document base state.
• Avoid smoking and certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) before surgery as per surgeon instructions.
• Plan for at least several days with minimal social obligations to accommodate swelling/bruising.
• Use cold compresses in first 48 h to reduce swelling (if the surgeon approves).
• Protect the area from sun, use gentle skincare, avoid rubbing the eyes.
• If travelling (even within Korea) plan for follow-up check-ups and emergency contact in case of concerns.