Ultimate guide to double eyelid surgery in Korea

Double eyelid surgery, aka blepharoplasty, is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery in the world, especially in Korea. In fact, it is the most basic cosmetic surgery that almost every Korean has underwent.

Don’t doubt that Korean surgeons are experienced in eyelid surgeries. Here’s why – most Koreans are born with monolids and receive eyelid surgeries as graduation presents from their parents.

So, why should you get double eyelid surgery?

For one, you can get bigger and more expressive eyes which makes you look more attractive. At the same time, you can get rid of sleepy eyes and balance uneven eyes.

Before you go get your double eyelid surgery in Korea, prep yourself with this guide!

Type of double eyelids in Korea

Infold double eyelid

Infold double eyelid is common on Asian eyes and has a natural look.

Double eyelid starts from inside the eyelid fold, and gets wider along the eyelid.

Outfold double eyelid

Outfold double eyelid is common on Western eyes and has a dramatic look.

Double eyelid starts high at the inner corner, and continues to the end in a parallel line.

In-out fold double eyelid

Combination of infold and outfold. It’s the most popular choice among Koreans and has a natural yet distinctive look.

Double eyelid starts low at the inner corner, and continues to the end in a parallel line.

Improve your facial proportions with the right eyes!

Types of double eyelid procedures in Korea

There are 3 main procedures used for double eyelid surgery in Korea – incisional, non incisional, and partial incision. The most suitable procedure for you depends on several factors actually.

1. Incisional double eyelid procedure

An incision line is made where your eyelid fold is to be naturally placed. Then unnecessary muscles, fats and skin are removed for best results. This procedure is suitable for all eyelids types.

The full incisional double eyelid method is the most effective technique used to permanently create eyelids. In fact, it’s the most preferred method among Koreans due to its guaranteed and natural results.

2. Partial incision double eyelid procedure

The partial incision double eyelid method is an alternative to the incisional method for those who are worried about scarring. Unlike the incisional method, only small segments of incisions are made to where your eyelid fold is to be naturally placed.

However, only unnecessary fats can be removed when using the partial incision method. This method does not help remove unnecessary skin and muscles. So if you have severe sagging eyelids, results might not be as great.

This procedure is suitable for those with not-so-fat eyelids. Or if you are really very particular about scars.

3. Non incisional double eyelid procedure

The non incisional double eyelid method, aka buried suture method, is a non-invasive procedure where small invisible sutures are knotted along where your eyelid fold is to be naturally placed.

This procedure is only suitable for those with thin eyelids because your new double eyelids are likely to loosen rapidly if you have fatty eyelids or droopy eyelids. In fact, you might not even be able to get the results you want if your eyelid skin is too thick.

Which double eyelid surgery procedure is best for me?

The most suitable procedure for you depends on many factors actually. Some of which are your eye anatomy, amount of eyelid fats, extend of saggy skin, and overall muscle distribution. That said, here’s a rough guide for you:

Always consult a professional to find out what is best for you!

How long does double eyelid surgery take?

Double eyelid surgery in Korea lasts merely 30 mins and is performed under local + sedation anesthesia.

You will be under local anesthesia during cutting and stitching to prevent pain. Then before finalizing, you will be put under sedation anesthesia (for a few mins) so that the surgeon can wake you to check how your eyelids look when your eyes are opened.

When can I see results?

Incisional procedures

For incision methods, major swelling and bruising last up to 3 weeks. Pretty accurate results are visible after 1 month. Final results can be seen after 6 to 12 months.

Non incisional procedures

For non incision method, major swelling and bruising last up to 2 weeks. Pretty accurate results are visible after 3 weeks. Final results can be seen after 6 months.

Do take note that the success of your eyelid surgery not only lies in the hands of your surgeon but also how you well you recover after surgery. So learn how to properly care for yourself during the recovery period by reading our article on eyelid surgery aftercare and post-op instructions.

How long should I stay in Korea?

Hospitalization is not required as double eyelid surgery in Korea is considered a simple procedure. But stay in Korea until your stitches are removed. And go shopping in the meantime!

Stitch removal

Stitches are removed 7 days after surgery for incisional procedures and 3 days after surgery for non incisional procedures.

Cautions on stitch removal

If you remove the stitches earlier then advised, there is a high chance of reverting back. And if you remove it too late, you risk further scarring and pigmentation.

We know, sometimes due to time constraints, you consider removing your stitches at the local hospitals in your home country.

Although that is possible (but not recommended), it is subjected to surgeon’s approval and also depends on how well you have been healing.

Should I get eyelid surgery or lasik first?

If you are planning to get lasik as well, you should read our writeup on whether to get eyelid surgery or lasik first for helpful insights before deciding which surgery to get first.

What other eyelid surgery complements double eyelid surgery?

Sometimes, double eyelid surgery alone is not be enough to achieve your desired eyes. But fret not, because you can fix all your eyelid problems at the same time!

1. Canthoplasty

For those who want bigger yet softer looking eyes, canthoplasty surgery, when coupled with double eyelid surgery can create that result.

2. Ptosis correction

If you have droopy eyelids and sleepy eyes, learn how ptosis correction surgery can fix droopy eyelids and enhance your double eyelid surgery results.

3. Under eye fat repositioning

Want to get rid of eye bags that make you look tired and old? Discover how under eye fat repositioning surgery can give the perfect results.

4. Endotine forehead lift

Endotine forehead lift can lift your saggy upper face and eyebrows for a younger and more feminine look. And the best thing is that there is no scarring.

5. Fat grafting surgery

Restore volume to your face to look younger than before with non-surgical fat grafting surgery.

Originally published on 2020 March 5