How to Choose Eyelid Crease Height in Korean Surgery
How to Choose Eyelid Crease Height in Korean Surgery
Choosing the right eyelid crease height is one of the most important decisions in double eyelid surgery. In Korean eye surgery, crease height is never chosen based on trend or preference alone—it is carefully customized based on anatomy, face shape, gender, and long-term aging.
A crease that is too high or poorly planned is one of the most common reasons for revision eyelid surgery, which is why Korean surgeons are especially conservative and precise.
Why Eyelid Crease Height Matters So Much
Even a 1–2 mm difference in crease height can dramatically change:
- Eye expression
- Perceived age
- Masculinity or femininity
- Naturalness of movement
- Long-term satisfaction
A crease that looks good immediately after surgery may not age well, which is why Korean surgeons prioritize durability and harmony over instant impact.
How Korean Surgeons Decide Crease Height
1. Eyelid Thickness & Fat Volume
This is the most critical factor.
- Thick or puffy eyelids → lower crease
- Thin eyelids → can tolerate slightly higher creases
High creases on thick eyelids often look artificial and may disappear or become stiff over time.
2. Brow Position & Brow-Eye Distance
Surgeons assess:
- Natural brow height at rest
- Brow movement during expression
- Brow compensation from ptosis
If the brow sits high, a high crease can make the eyes look overly surprised.
If the brow sits low, an overly high crease can look heavy or unnatural.
3. Face Shape & Facial Proportions
Crease height is chosen to match the face—not the eyes alone.
- Round or short faces → lower, natural creases
- Long or narrow faces → moderate creases for balance
- Strong jawlines or angular faces → softer crease lines
This is why Korean surgeons analyze the full face before finalizing crease height.
4. Gender Differences
Men and women require different crease strategies.
For men
- Lower crease height
- Straighter or semi-straight crease
- Minimal visibility when eyes are open
For women
- Slightly higher than male creases
- Still conservative compared to Western styles
- Designed to look soft, not dramatic
Masculinity and femininity are strongly influenced by crease height.
5. Age & Aging Pattern
Crease height must age well.
- Younger patients still need conservative creases
- Older patients often need lower creases with volume preservation
- High creases can exaggerate aging by creating hollow or sunken lids
Korean surgeons often recommend lower creases than patients initially request for this reason.
Low vs Medium vs High Crease (General Guidance)
Low Crease
- Most natural-looking
- Best for thick eyelids
- Ages well
- Most commonly recommended in Korea
Medium Crease
- Balanced visibility
- Suitable for moderate eyelid thickness
- Requires precise planning
High Crease
- Rarely recommended
- Higher risk of artificial appearance
- More common in revision cases from overdone surgery
In Korea, high creases are avoided unless anatomically justified.
Crease Height Is Tested Before Surgery
Korean surgeons often:
- Simulate crease height manually
- Have patients open and close their eyes
- Observe facial expressions and blinking
- Adjust height in millimeter increments
This dynamic evaluation helps prevent surprises after surgery.
Common Patient Mistakes When Choosing Crease Height
- Choosing crease height based on celebrity photos
- Requesting high creases for “bigger eyes”
- Ignoring eyelid thickness
- Prioritizing immediate visibility over long-term results
Korean surgeons often push back on these requests to protect the final outcome.
Why Lower Creases Are Preferred in Korea
Lower creases:
- Look natural at rest
- Move naturally when blinking
- Are less likely to loosen or scar
- Age more gracefully
- Reduce the need for revision surgery
This conservative philosophy is a key reason Korea is known for natural eyelid results.
Final Thoughts
Choosing eyelid crease height in Korean surgery is a medical and aesthetic decision, not a trend choice. The best crease:
- Fits your eyelid anatomy
- Matches your face shape
- Preserves natural expression
- Ages well over time
If a surgeon recommends a lower crease than you expect, it is usually because they are planning for long-term harmony, not just short-term appearance.
A detailed consultation—with simulation and full facial analysis—is essential to choosing the right crease height and achieving a result that looks natural for years to come.
