Double Eyelid Surgery in Korea: Incisional vs Non-Incisional
Double Eyelid Surgery in Korea: Incisional vs Non-Incisional
Double eyelid surgery is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in Korea. While the goal is the same—creating a natural-looking upper eyelid crease—the method matters. In Korea, surgeons primarily use two approaches: incisional and non-incisional (suture).
Choosing the right technique depends on eyelid thickness, fat volume, skin laxity, and long-term stability needs, not trends or price alone.
Understanding the Two Methods
Non-Incisional Double Eyelid Surgery (Suture Method)
What it is
A crease is created using internal sutures without cutting the skin.
Best suited for
- Thin to moderate eyelid skin
- Minimal upper-lid fat
- No significant skin laxity
- Younger patients
- Patients wanting minimal downtime
Key advantages
- No visible incision or scar
- Faster recovery
- Less swelling and bruising
- Shorter procedure time
Limitations
- Crease may loosen over time
- Not ideal for thick or puffy eyelids
- Cannot remove excess fat or skin
- Less stable for long-term results
In Korea, surgeons are very selective with this method to avoid crease loss or uneven results later.
Incisional Double Eyelid Surgery
What it is
A fine incision is made along the crease line, allowing direct access to fat, muscle, and skin for precise adjustment.
Best suited for
- Thick or puffy eyelids
- Excess upper-lid fat
- Mild eyelid drooping (ptosis)
- Older patients
- Patients wanting long-term crease stability
- Revision cases
Key advantages
- Strong, long-lasting crease
- Allows selective fat removal or repositioning
- Can correct mild ptosis
- Better control of symmetry and crease shape
Limitations
- Longer recovery than suture method
- Temporary swelling is more noticeable
- Small scar (usually hidden within the crease)
Korean surgeons are known for conservative incisional techniques that preserve volume and avoid hollow or aged-looking eyes.
Why Korea Is Known for Choosing the Right Method
In Korea, the decision between incisional and non-incisional surgery is diagnosis-driven, not preference-driven.
Surgeons evaluate:
- Eyelid thickness and fat distribution
- Crease stability potential
- Brow position and compensation
- Long-term aging pattern
- Patient gender and facial proportions
This is why many patients who request non-incisional surgery are advised to choose the incisional method for better long-term outcomes.
Crease Design Matters More Than Method
Regardless of technique, Korean surgeons emphasize:
- Lower, natural crease height
- Balanced symmetry rather than forced equality
- Crease visibility when eyes are open
- Natural movement during blinking
A well-designed crease with the correct method looks more natural than a poorly chosen technique.
Recovery Comparison
Non-incisional
- Swelling: a few days
- Return to daily life: 2–3 days
- Final result: 1–2 months
Incisional
- Swelling: 1–2 weeks
- Stitch removal: around day 5–7
- Socially presentable: ~7–10 days
- Final result: 2–3 months
Both methods continue to refine over time as swelling settles.
Common Mistakes Patients Make
- Choosing non-incisional surgery despite thick eyelids
- Prioritizing short downtime over long-term stability
- Requesting high creases without considering eyelid anatomy
- Underestimating the role of fat and ptosis
Korean surgeons often correct these issues during consultations to prevent revision surgery later.
Which Method Is Better?
There is no universally “better” method.
- Non-incisional is better for thin, simple eyelids with low relapse risk
- Incisional is better for thick, heavy, aging, or complex eyelids
The best results come from choosing the method that matches your anatomy—not your initial preference.
Final Thoughts
Double eyelid surgery in Korea succeeds because surgeons focus on proper diagnosis, conservative design, and long-term balance, not just the crease itself. Whether incisional or non-incisional, the right technique—combined with precise planning—creates natural, stable, and age-appropriate results.
A detailed consultation is essential to determine which approach will deliver the safest and most satisfying outcome for your eyelids.
