Journal · Under-eye surgery
Scarless Under-Eye Fat Removal: Who Is the Ideal Candidate?
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lee Young-geun, board-certified plastic surgeon · Last reviewed:
When the only problem is bulging fat with no depression beneath it, removing just enough fat through the inside of the eyelid produces a pristine result.
In this article
The pure subtraction candidate
Not every under-eye bag requires repositioning. In patients in their twenties or early thirties with genetic fat protrusion and firm, elastic skin — but crucially without a sunken tear trough groove below — transconjunctival under-eye fat removal (눈밑지방제거) is the optimal, minimally invasive choice.
Through a microscopic access incision on the inner pink conjunctiva, excess herniating fat is measured and carefully resected. There are no skin stitches, no external marks, and minimal post-operative swelling.
The danger of over-resection
The defining skill in fat removal is knowing when to stop. Taking too much fat hollows the under-eye, prematurely aging the face. Dr. Lee preserves the structural foundation of the eye, removing only the hyper-herniated portion to ensure a youthful, smooth transition.
Written by Dr. Lee Young-geun, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, Founder & Sole Surgeon, SINSA L Plastic Surgery, Sinsa, Gangnam, Seoul. Published 2026-03-23.
FAQ
Related questions
How fast is recovery from scarless fat removal?
Most patients experience mild swelling for 3 to 4 days, with full return to social activities and makeup by day 5.
Consultation
Have this assessed properly
Photographs and a short description are enough for Dr. Lee to tell you which category you fall into.
Every consultation is carried out by Dr. Lee Young-geun in person — never by a coordinator.