Incisional vs Non-Incisional Eyelid Surgery

Understanding the Two Main Types of Double Eyelid Surgery in Korea

Korea offers two primary techniques for creating double eyelids: the incisional method and the non-incisional (suture) method. Both approaches can produce natural, beautiful creases, but the right choice depends entirely on your eyelid thickness, skin condition, and long-term goals.

This guide explains the differences, pros, cons, recovery time, and who each method is best for — in a simple, easy-to-understand format.

What Is Non-Incisional Eyelid Surgery? (Suture Method)

How It Works

• Uses tiny micro-holes instead of cutting the skin
• Sutures link the eyelid skin to the levator muscle
• A natural crease forms when the eyes open

Best For

• Younger patients
• Thin eyelid skin
• Mild hooding
• First-time double eyelid surgery
• Those wanting minimal downtime

Benefits

• Quick recovery (3–7 days)
• Very natural crease
• Minimal bruising
• No external scar
• Easy revision if needed

Limitations

• Not suitable for thick or fatty eyelids
• Crease may loosen over time
• Not ideal for significant sagging or asymmetry
• Does not remove excess skin or fat

What Is Incisional Eyelid Surgery? (Full Incision Method)

How It Works

• Full incision along the planned eyelid crease
• Allows removal of excess skin, fat, or muscle
• Crease is anchored directly to the levator muscle

Best For

• Thick eyelids
• Severe hooding
• Excess skin
• Revision cases
• Patients wanting long-lasting results

Benefits

• Permanent, stable crease
• Best for creating symmetry
• Ideal for heavy or thick eyelids
• Allows precise reshaping of the eyelid structure
• Can combine with ptosis correction

Limitations

• Longer recovery (7–14 days)
• More swelling
• Visible incision during healing
• Harder to revise if overcorrected

Partial-Incisional Eyelid Surgery (Hybrid Technique)

How It Works

• Small incision + sutures
• Allows light fat removal and stronger fixation

Best For

• Moderate eyelid thickness
• Those wanting natural results with stronger hold than sutures
• Mild hooded eyelids

Why It’s Popular in Korea

Balancing natural results and durability makes it ideal for many eyelid types.

Key Differences: Incisional vs Non-Incisional

Durability

• Incisional: Most permanent
• Non-incisional: Can loosen over years, especially on thick lids

Scarring

• Incisional: Small crease-line scar (fades)
• Non-incisional: No external scar

Recovery Time

• Incisional: Longer (7–14 days)
• Non-incisional: Shorter (3–7 days)

Best for Thick Eyelids

• Incisional: Yes
• Non-incisional: Not recommended

Best for Subtle, Natural Folds

• Both, depending on eyelid anatomy

Ability to Remove Skin/Fat

• Incisional: Yes
• Non-incisional: No

Which Method Looks More Natural?

Both can look extremely natural — if chosen correctly based on eyelid anatomy.

Natural for Thick Eyelids → Incisional

Because excess tissue must be addressed.

Natural for Thin Eyelids → Non-Incisional

Soft, subtle crease without over-defining the lid.

Which Method Is Better for Men?

• Non-incisional: Best for thin male eyelids wanting a low, masculine crease
• Incisional: Best for men with thick skin or hooding

Korean surgeons often design very low, subtle creases for male patients.

When to Choose Each Method

Choose Non-Incisional If:

• You want fast recovery
• Your skin is thin
• You prefer a low, soft fold
• You’re young with minimal excess skin

Choose Incisional If:

• You have excess skin
• Your eyelids feel heavy
• You want long-lasting results
• You need symmetry correction
• You’ve had failed double eyelid surgery before

Choose Partial-Incision If:

• You want natural results + durability
• You have moderate fat or mild hooding

Recovery Comparison

Non-Incisional:

• Swelling peak: 2–3 days
• Daily life: 3–5 days
• Final result: 1–2 months

Incisional:

• Swelling peak: 3–5 days
• Daily life: 7–10 days
• Final result: 2–3 months

Pros and Cons Summary

Incisional Method

Pros: Stable, long-lasting, ideal for thick/heavy lids
Cons: More downtime, scar during healing

Non-Incisional Method

Pros: Fast recovery, no scar, natural crease
Cons: Less durable, not for thick eyelids