Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. For upper-lid blepharoplasty, an incision is made in the natural lid crease; excess skin, a small strip of orbicularis muscle and prolapsed fat are removed, then closed with fine sutures. For lower-lid bags, the surgeon uses a subciliary skin incision or a hidden transconjunctival approach inside the lid to remove or reposition fat. Korean double-eyelid surgery additionally uses a buried-suture (non-incisional) variant.

1. 1Consultation with photographs, dry-eye screening and discussion of crease design.
2. 2Stop smoking 4 weeks before surgery; stop blood-thinning medications and supplements 2 weeks before on physician advice.
3. 3Pre-operative bloods and (if general anesthesia) anesthesia clearance.
4. 4Arrange a caregiver for the first 24-48 hours; do not plan to drive home.
5. 5Bring tinted glasses or sunglasses for post-op light sensitivity.

1. 1Day 0: Day-case surgery; cold compresses; head elevated; oral analgesia.
2. 2Day 1-3: Bruising and swelling peak; tear-film irritation common.
3. 3Day 5-7: Sutures removed (incisional); many international patients fly home.
4. 4Week 2: Most bruising resolved; return to office work typically possible.
5. 5Week 4-6: Strenuous exercise and swimming resumed; contact-lens wear permitted.
6. 6Month 2-3: Crease shape and scar fully settle.

At clinics listed on xcuro, prices for eyelid surgery are: South Korea $821 to $6,600 (6 clinics); Turkey $1,088 to $4,531 (4 clinics); Thailand $1,150 to $1,950 (1 clinic); Mexico $1,500 to $5,599 (2 clinics). Final prices depend on your case and are confirmed in writing after a free consultation.

There is no single best country; it depends on the surgeon, the clinic and how far you are willing to travel. Among clinics listed on xcuro, prices start lowest in South Korea (from $821), which also has the most clinics (6). Compare surgeons' credentials and independent ratings before price.

Typically $3,359, according to American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This is the surgeon's fee alone; anesthesia and facility fees are billed on top.

Plan on about 7 days, from arrival to the flight home. Your surgeon will confirm when it is safe to travel.

Most U.S. health plans do not pay for elective surgery abroad, and cosmetic procedures are not covered at all. The CDC also warns that care for complications after surgery abroad may not be covered, so check your plan before you book.