How Many Days to Stay in Korea After Eye Surgery
How Many Days to Stay in Korea After Eye Surgery
One of the most common questions international patients ask is how long they need to stay in Korea after eye surgery. The answer depends on the type of eye procedure, whether stitches are involved, and how closely post-operative monitoring is required.
Staying for the appropriate amount of time is important not only for safety, but also for achieving the best possible results.
General Recommendation
For most eye plastic surgery procedures, clinics in Korea typically recommend staying between 5 and 14 days after surgery.
This allows time for:
- Initial swelling and bruising to stabilize
- Stitch removal (if applicable)
- Early assessment of symmetry and healing
- Management of any immediate post-operative issues
Leaving too early may limit proper follow-up care.
Recommended Stay by Eye Surgery Type
Non-Incisional Double Eyelid Surgery
- Minimum stay: 3–5 days
- Ideal stay: 5–7 days
This procedure usually involves minimal swelling and no stitches. Shorter stays may be possible, but a brief follow-up visit is still recommended.
Incisional Double Eyelid Surgery
- Minimum stay: 5–7 days
- Ideal stay: 7–10 days
Stitch removal is typically done around day 5–7, making it important to remain in Korea until this step is completed.
Ptosis Correction (With or Without Double Eyelid Surgery)
- Minimum stay: 7–10 days
- Ideal stay: 10–14 days
Because ptosis surgery involves eyelid muscle adjustment, clinics prefer to monitor eye opening, symmetry, and early healing before travel.
Lower Eyelid Surgery / Eye Bag Surgery
- Minimum stay: 7–10 days
- Ideal stay: 10–14 days
Lower eyelid procedures are more prone to swelling and dryness, especially when combined with fat repositioning.
Lateral Canthoplasty (Outer Corner Surgery)
- Minimum stay: 7 days
- Ideal stay: 10 days
Outer corner surgery requires careful healing to maintain stability and prevent relapse.
Revision Eye Surgery
- Minimum stay: 10–14 days
- Ideal stay: 2 weeks or longer
Revision cases are more complex and benefit from extended observation before flying.
Why Clinics Recommend Staying Longer
Korean clinics commonly advise longer stays because:
- Early swelling can mask asymmetry
- Adjustments or additional care may be needed
- Complications are easier to manage locally
- Long-haul flights can worsen swelling if taken too soon
Staying allows surgeons to confirm that healing is progressing normally.
Can You Leave Earlier?
In some cases, earlier departure may be possible if:
- The procedure was non-incisional
- Healing is smooth with minimal swelling
- The clinic provides remote follow-up guidance
However, early departure is not recommended after incisional, ptosis, lower eyelid, or revision surgeries unless approved by the surgeon.
Travel Planning Tips for International Patients
- Book flexible return tickets if possible
- Plan accommodation near the clinic
- Avoid scheduling flights immediately after stitch removal
- Allow buffer days for swelling or unexpected delays
Many patients find that a 7–10 day stay balances recovery and travel efficiency well.
Final Thoughts
The number of days you should stay in Korea after eye surgery depends on the procedure type, surgical complexity, and your individual healing response. While some treatments allow short stays, most eye surgeries benefit from remaining in Korea for proper follow-up and early recovery.
Planning enough recovery time helps reduce complications, ensures better results, and provides peace of mind before returning home.




