Side Effects of Double Eyelid Surgery

A Clear Guide to the Possible Side Effects of Double Eyelid Surgery

Double eyelid surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in Korea, known for natural results and fast recovery. While the procedure is generally safe, it’s still surgery — so understanding the normal side effects, temporary symptoms, and potential complications is essential for anyone considering it.

This guide explains every possible side effect, what’s expected, and when you should seek medical care.

Normal Side Effects (Expected During Recovery)

These are completely normal and part of the healing process.

1. Swelling

• Peak swelling occurs in the first 2–3 days
• Improves significantly after 1 week
• Final crease settles in 1–3 months

2. Bruising

• Light to moderate bruising is common
• More visible with incisional surgery
• Usually fades within 7–10 days

3. Tightness or Heaviness

• Eyelids may feel stiff or heavy
• Improves as swelling reduces
• Normal for up to 2–4 weeks

4. Asymmetry During Early Healing

• One eye may look bigger or heal faster
• Temporary swelling differences are common
• True symmetry cannot be judged until 1–3 months

5. Dry Eyes

• Mild dryness or irritation
• Temporary decrease in blinking strength
• Artificial tears help

6. Mild Pain or Discomfort

• Aching, tenderness, or soreness
• Usually manageable with medication

Temporary Side Effects That Usually Improve

1. Visible Incision Line

• Pink or red at first
• Fades gradually
• Final scar maturation takes up to 6–12 months

2. Numbness or Tingling

• Caused by temporary nerve irritation
• Improves over weeks

3. Difficulty Fully Closing the Eyes

• Very common during swelling
• Should resolve as tissues soften

4. Increased Tear Production

• Eyes may water more than usual
• Related to temporary irritation

5. Crease Appearing Too High at First

• Early crease height is exaggerated from swelling
• Settles into a lower, more natural position

Less Common Side Effects (Still Usually Temporary)

1. Milia (Small White Bumps)

• Tiny cysts near the incision
• Easily removed during follow-up
• Not dangerous

2. Visible Sutures or Small Knots

• Especially with non-incisional methods
• Usually soften or dissolve

3. Sensitive Skin Around the Upper Eyelid

• Temporary inflammation
• Avoid rubbing or heavy makeup

Possible Complications (Rare But Important to Know)

While rare in Korea due to high surgical expertise, complications can occur.

1. Asymmetry That Does Not Improve

Caused by:

• Uneven swelling (temporary)
• Muscle imbalance (ptosis)
• Incorrect crease height
• Scar tissue

Usually corrected with revision surgery.

2. Crease Too High or Too Low

May require revision if it does not settle naturally.

3. Hollow Upper Eyelids

Occurs when too much fat is removed.
Fix: Fat grafting or fat repositioning.

4. Overcorrection or Undercorrection

• Overcorrection → eyelids look too open or unnatural
• Undercorrection → crease disappears or sits too low

5. Infection

Very rare. Symptoms include:

• Increasing redness
• Pain
• Heat
• Pus

Responds well to early treatment.

6. Long-Term Difficulty Closing the Eyes

Usually due to:

• Over-removal of skin
• Excessive tightening

May require revision or grafting.

7. Visible or Thick Scars

Rare, but can occur in:

• People prone to hypertrophic scarring
• Improper incision care

Scar care treatments (laser, silicone sheets) help.

8. Ptosis (Droopy Eyelid)

Can occur if the levator muscle is unintentionally weakened.
Corrected with ptosis repair.

How Korea Minimizes Side Effects

Advanced Techniques

• Precise crease design
• Minimal fat removal
• Tension-free suturing
• Microscopic incision lines

Experienced Surgeons

Korea performs the highest volume of eyelid surgeries globally → fewer complications.

Post-Care Protocols

• Cold therapy
• LED healing
• Scar management
• Scheduled follow-ups

When to Contact Your Surgeon

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain not relieved by medication
• Increasing swelling after day 3
• Fever or chills
• Excessive bleeding
• Vision changes
• Redness spreading around the incision