Double Eyelid Surgery in Korea: Non-Incision vs Incision Methods
Medically reviewed by Yongwoo Lee, M.D. – Board-certified plastic surgeon at VIP Plastic Surgery Korea
Last updated: July 2026
Double eyelid surgery, also known as double eyelid blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic eyelid procedure that creates a natural upper eyelid crease. Double eyelid surgery is designed to improve eyelid definition while maintaining harmony with each patient’s facial features. For individuals born without a natural crease, or with a faint or asymmetrical fold, double eyelid surgery forms a smooth, well-balanced crease that makes the eyes appear brighter, more open, and more refined.
Since every eyelid is different, there is no single best method. Depending on eyelid anatomy, skin thickness, levator muscle function, and long-term aesthetic goals, a VIP eyelid specialist may recommend either an incisional or non-incisional double eyelid surgery technique, each offering distinct advantages for the right candidate.
During consultation, VIP surgeons carefully evaluate eyelid anatomy, skin thickness, levator muscle function, existing asymmetry, and each patient’s aesthetic goals before recommending the most appropriate technique.
At VIP Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeons use these clinical findings to recommend the most appropriate surgical technique. Each surgical plan is individualized to achieve natural-looking results while maintaining long-term harmony and function.
“What is Non-incisional Double Eyelid Surgery?”
Non-incisional double eyelid surgery creates a natural crease without any skin incisions. Instead, multiple micro-holes are made along the desired double eyelid line, and a fine thread is carefully inserted and sutured through these points to form the fold. Compared with the incisional technique, this approach offers several advantages, including reduced swelling and a faster recovery period, making it an ideal option for patients seeking minimal downtime.
Operation Information
- Surgery Time: 30 Minutes
- Anesthesia Type: Local Anesthesia
- Hospitalization: None
- Stitch Removal: None
- Recovery Time: 7 Days
Non-incision Double Eyelid Surgery Method
STEP 01 Create a double eyelid line based on an individual’s preference and aesthetic ratio.
STEP 02 Puncture multiple 1~2mm of micro holes along the double eyelid line.
STEP 03 Use the fine thread to fix the inner and outer eyelid.
STEP 04A natural-looking double eyelid is created.
Before & After

All before-and-after photos are of actual VIP Plastic Surgery patients, published with consent. Results vary by individual, and surgery carries potential risks such as swelling, bruising, asymmetry, or scarring. Photos are for reference only, please consult before deciding on surgery.
Ideal Candidates for Non-incisional Double Eyelid Surgery
Compared to the Incision Method…
“What is an Incisional Double Eyelid Surgery? ”
Incisional double eyelid surgery involves a precise incision along the eyelid, through which excess skin and, when indicated, a small amount of fat are removed. A permanent adhesion is then formed between the skin and the underlying levator aponeurosis (or tarsal plate) to create a well-defined, stable crease. As this technique requires greater surgical precision, selecting an experienced surgeon is essential to avoid potential complications such as visible scarring or an unnaturally high, thick, or puffy fold (sometimes described as a ‘sausage’ appearance).
The incisional method is particularly well-suited for patients who require additional procedures such as ptosis correction or eye fat removal. It also offers a significant advantage in longevity; the crease is long-lasting and tends to remain stable over time, though natural aging may gradually soften its definition.
Operation Information(Procedure Time)
- Surgery Time: 60-90 Minutes
- Anesthesia Type: Local Anesthesia
- Hospitalization: None
- Stitch Removal: 7 Days
- Recovery Time: 2-3 Weeks
Incision Double Eyelid Surgery Method
STEP 01 Design the double eyelids and apply local anesthesia.
STEP 02 Following the design line, a fine incision is made, redundant skin (and a small amount of fat if needed) is removed, and the orbicularis muscle is gently adjusted.
STEP 03 Use a fine thread to suture the incision line.
STEP 04 Defined and fresh double eyelids
| Non-incision | vs | Incision |
|---|---|---|
| 30 Minutes | Surgery Time | 60-90 Minutes |
| None | Stitch Removal | After 7 Days |
| 7 Days | Recovery Time | 2-3 Weeks |
| Fast recovery and natural result | Pros | Suitable for all candidates, long-lasting, and effective |
| Double eyelids may loosen | Cons | Slower recovery and may have scarring |

















