Aegyo sal is a term used in South Korea to refer to the little fatty deposits under your eyes. The procedure to create them is sometimes called “Korean love band surgery” or “youthlites”.
What exactly does aegyo sal look like?
Contrary to popular belief, aegyo sal does not refer to eye bags under our eyes that we all get from aging. Aegyo sal sits right under the lower eyelid and naturally occurs in children. A love band is located right under the lashes, while eye bags are confined to tear ducts under the eyelids.
It’s existence in young people is the reason some people believe it can make you look more youthful and innocent.
What are the methods to achieve aegyo sal?
If you do not have naturally-occurring aegyo sal (i.e. most people over 20), you can have these created artificially. The only permanent way to achieve them is via a surgical procedure where a 0.5 cm flat strip of AlloDerm (acellular dermal matrix) or Gortex is inserted under the skin surface through two small incisions, leaving behind tiny scars. This method heals quickly and sutures can be removed after 3-4 days.
Aegyo sal can also be achieved with fillers for those who do not want to go under the knife. This method is temporary and lasts around 6 months. If you’re curious as to whether your favorite idol has taken the surgical or non-surgical route, keep an eye on their aegyo sal and see if it is sometimes more or less pronounced. If the size of their under-eye bands fluctuates, it’s likely they’ve gone for the filler option.
Lastly, there are make-up tricks to help you get the youthlites look without even needing to see a doctor. If you’re interested in this option, Google is your friend.
Before and after examples
Before and after pics courtesy of ITEM Plastic Surgery in Gangnam, Seoul.
Feedback from a plastic surgeon
Honestly, this looks completely silly and not only a waste of money but not worth the risk. I always believe that taking an unnecessary risk is ill-advised. This surgery is a clear example of this kind of foolishness. Sorry for the strong words, but this just looks silly and potentially dangerous close to the eye.
– Dr. Lam on Korean eye band surgery
Korean natural beauty ideals have typically influenced the mainstream, including fashion chic stars, TV individuality, and K-pop stars.
Further reading
Still curious? Here are some links with more information.
Please note that the information in this article is NOT meant as medical advice. If you are interested in this topic, do your own research, or better yet, see a specialized medical professional.
