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


Steps for Non-incision Double Eyelid Surgery Method

STEP  01 Create a double eyelid line based on an individual’s preference and aesthetic ratio.
Steps for Non-Incision Ptosis Correction Surgery Method 06

STEP  02 Puncture multiple 1~2mm of micro holes along the double eyelid line.
Steps for Non-incision Double Eyelid Surgery Method 03

STEP  03 Use the fine thread to fix the inner and outer eyelid.
Steps for Non-incision Double Eyelid Surgery Method 04

STEP  04A natural-looking double eyelid is created.

Ideal Candidates for Non-incisional Double Eyelid Surgery


01   Does not want to make an incision line on the eyelid

02   Wants very natural-looking eyes

03   Eyelid skin is not too thick and not too loose

04   Wants the fastest recovery time and to go back to school or the office right after the surgery

05   Does not want major swelling in the eyes

Compared to the Incision Method…


01   Does not leave much scarring

02   Minor swelling after the surgery

03   Return to daily activities earlier than incisional 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


Steps for Incision Double Eyelid Surgery Method

STEP  01 Design the double eyelids and apply local anesthesia.
Steps for Incision Double Eyelid Surgery Method 02

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.
Steps for Incision Double Eyelid Surgery Method 03

STEP  03 Use a fine thread to suture the incision line.
Steps for Incision Double Eyelid Surgery Method 04

STEP  04 Defined and fresh double eyelids
Non-incisionvsIncision
30 MinutesSurgery Time60-90 Minutes
NoneStitch RemovalAfter 7 Days
7 DaysRecovery Time2-3 Weeks
Fast recovery and natural resultProsSuitable for all candidates, long-lasting, and effective
Double eyelids may loosenConsSlower recovery and may have scarring

Post-operative Care


01   Do not tear too much, harshly rub the eyes, or forcefully close the eyes.

02   Do not put your head down when sleeping, and use 2-3 soft pillows to sleep.

03   Please avoid makeup for a minimum of 2 weeks.

04   Please avoid drinking alcohol or smoking since it may slow down the recovery. You may start drinking or smoking after 4 weeks.

05   Please do not wear contact lenses for 3 weeks.

06 Apply a cold compress or ice pack for the first 2–3 days to reduce swelling and bruising. Use a thin cloth between the pack and skin, and apply gently without pressure. From day 3, a warm compress may help resolve any remaining bruising.

07 Keep the surgical area clean and dry. You may shower after 24 hours, but avoid direct water pressure on the eyes.

08 Use the prescribed antibiotic ointment or eye drops exactly as directed to support healing and prevent infection.

09 Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and bending over for about 2 weeks, as these can increase pressure around the eyes.

10 Wear sunglasses outdoors and protect the incision from direct sun exposure to minimize scarring.

FAQ


Local anesthesia is used for double eyelid surgery.
Revision in eyelid surgery requires at least 1 year after the primary surgery.
The risks of Double Eyelid surgery may include but are no limited to infection, stiffness on the operated area, visible scar lines, asymmetry and blurred vision.
For double eyelid surgery, the dressing schedules are usually as follows: Post operation day 1, 3, 5, 7. Afterwards, follow up schedules may be scheduled with doctor for post operative care. For incisional method, stitches will be removed on day 7 post operation.
Double eyelid surgery is to essentially make a crease on your eyelid. If you have ptosis (sleepy eyes), it is recommended for you to combine ptosis correction along with double eyelid surgery as an additional procedure.
For non-incisional double eyelid surgery, it is recommended for you to stay in Korea for about 3 days post operation. For incisional double eyelid surgery, stitches will be removed on post operation day 7.