What It Is

Double eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty for creating a supratarsal crease, is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in Korea. It involves reshaping the upper eyelid to create a natural-looking fold that enhances eye definition and makes the eyes appear larger, brighter, and more symmetrical.

There are different surgical methods in Korea:

• Incisional technique: Creates a permanent fold by removing excess skin, fat, or muscle.
• Non-incisional (suture) technique: Uses sutures to create a crease without large incisions; less invasive and reversible.
• Partial incision technique: A hybrid method combining both approaches.

Why It’s Done

Patients choose double eyelid surgery because:

• They want to create a supratarsal crease for more defined eyes.
• Asymmetrical eyelids or monolids affect their appearance.
• Excess eyelid skin causes heaviness or blocks light, making eyes look smaller.
• They desire a youthful, refreshed appearance.

Good candidates include:

• Individuals with monolids or asymmetrical double eyelids.
• Patients seeking brighter, larger eyes with a natural crease.
• Those in good health with realistic expectations.

Alternatives

• Eyelid tape or glue: Temporary methods to create a crease without surgery.
• Botox or fillers: Can adjust eyelid shape subtly but do not create a fold.
• No treatment: For patients satisfied with their natural eyelids.

Preparation

Before double eyelid surgery in Korea, patients will:

• Undergo consultation and digital simulations to choose crease height and shape.
• Stop smoking and alcohol 2–4 weeks before surgery.
• Avoid blood-thinning medications and certain supplements.
• Plan for downtime, especially if using the incisional method.

How It’s Done

• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with sedation.
• Incisional method: Excess skin, fat, or muscle is removed; a crease is created with sutures.
• Non-incisional method: Tiny punctures are made, and sutures are threaded to form a fold.
• Partial incision: Combines both approaches for more customization.
• Duration: 1–2 hours, outpatient procedure.

Recovery

• First week: Swelling and bruising are common; cold compresses recommended.
• Return to activities: 5–7 days for non-incisional, 1–2 weeks for incisional.
• Final results: Natural crease visible within 1–3 months as swelling subsides.

Possible Complications

• Asymmetry between eyelids.
• Visible scarring (more likely in incisional method).
• Over- or under-correction of crease height.
• Temporary dryness or irritation.
• Rare risks: infection, bleeding, or crease loosening.

Treatment Options in Korea

Diagnosis

Korean surgeons use eye measurements, digital photography, and crease simulations to design a crease that matches the patient’s natural anatomy and desired look.

Medical Treatments

• Eyelid tape or glue for non-surgical, temporary results.

Surgical or Advanced Therapies

• Non-incisional (suture) method for subtle, reversible results with faster recovery.
• Incisional method for permanent, precise correction (especially for thick or droopy eyelids).
• Partial incision method for a balance of natural appearance and durability.

Rehabilitation and Support

• Cold compresses, eye drops, and ointments for recovery.
• Scar care (for incisional method) with silicone gels or laser if needed.
• Follow-up visits for symmetry checks and long-term results.
• International patients benefit from Korea’s specialized eyelid surgeons, artistic eye design, and natural-looking results.