Double Eyelid Surgery in Korea: Non-Incisional & Incisional Methods - Prices 2025
Double eyelid surgery (쌍꺼풀 수술) is the most popular cosmetic procedure in Korea. Whether you want subtle enhancement or a more defined crease, Korean surgeons have perfected techniques that create natural-looking results. Here's your comprehensive guide.
Understanding Double Eyelid Surgery
What is a Double Eyelid?
- Monolid: No crease above the eye
- Double eyelid: Visible crease when eyes are open
- Inner fold: Crease starts from inner corner
- Outer fold: Crease starts mid-eye or outer
Why People Choose This Surgery
- Create eyelid crease
- Make eyes appear larger
- Easier makeup application
- Fix asymmetry
- Address hooded eyelids
- Rejuvenate aged eyelids
Why Korea for Double Eyelid Surgery?
Korea leads the world in eyelid surgery:
- Volume: More procedures performed than anywhere
- Specialization: Surgeons focus specifically on Asian eyes
- Natural results: Emphasis on looking natural, not Western
- Advanced techniques: Constantly innovating
- Competitive pricing: Great value for quality
- Cultural understanding: Know what looks best on Asian faces
Types of Double Eyelid Surgery
1. Non-Incisional (Suture/Buried Method) - 매몰법
How it works: Sutures create a fold without cutting
Procedure:
- Tiny puncture holes made
- Sutures create connections
- No incision, minimal scarring
Best for:
- Young patients
- Thin eyelid skin
- No excess skin
- First-time procedures
- Those wanting reversibility
Price: $770-$1,540 (₩1,000,000-₩2,000,000)
Pros:
- Faster recovery (5-7 days)
- No visible scar
- Reversible if needed
- Less swelling
Cons:
- May loosen over time
- Not for everyone
- Limited correction possible
2. Partial Incision - 부분절개
How it works: Small incision combined with sutures
Best for:
- Moderate excess skin
- Want longer-lasting than suture
- Prefer less recovery than full incision
Price: $1,155-$2,310 (₩1,500,000-₩3,000,000)
3. Full Incisional - 절개법
How it works: Full incision along desired crease line
Procedure:
- Incision made
- Excess skin/fat removed
- Crease created and secured
Best for:
- Excess skin or fat
- Older patients
- Puffy eyelids
- Want permanent results
- Revision cases
Price: $1,540-$3,080 (₩2,000,000-₩4,000,000)
Pros:
- Permanent results
- Can remove excess tissue
- Most dramatic improvement
- Addresses multiple issues
Cons:
- Longer recovery (2-4 weeks)
- Visible scar initially (fades)
- Not reversible
4. Combination Procedures
Double Eyelid + Epicanthoplasty (앞트임)
- Opens inner corner of eye
- Makes eyes appear wider
- Very popular in Korea
- Additional cost: $770-$1,540 (₩1,000,000-₩2,000,000)
Double Eyelid + Lateral Canthoplasty (뒤트임)
- Opens outer corner
- Elongates eye
- Additional cost: $770-$1,540 (₩1,000,000-₩2,000,000)
Double Eyelid + Ptosis Correction
- Fixes droopy eyelid
- Opens up eye more
- Additional cost: $770-$1,540 (₩1,000,000-₩2,000,000)
Prices Summary (Korea 2025)
| Procedure | Price Range (USD) | Price Range (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| Non-incisional (suture) | $770-$1,540 | ₩1,000,000-₩2,000,000 |
| Partial incision | $1,155-$2,310 | ₩1,500,000-₩3,000,000 |
| Full incision | $1,540-$3,080 | ₩2,000,000-₩4,000,000 |
| Epicanthoplasty | $770-$1,540 | ₩1,000,000-₩2,000,000 |
| Lateral canthoplasty | $770-$1,540 | ₩1,000,000-₩2,000,000 |
| Ptosis correction | $770-$1,540 | ₩1,000,000-₩2,000,000 |
| Revision surgery | $1,540-$3,850 | ₩2,000,000-₩5,000,000 |
Price Comparison
| Location | Non-Incisional | Full Incision |
|---|---|---|
| Korea | $770-$1,540 | $1,540-$3,080 |
| USA | $3,000-$5,000 | $4,000-$7,000 |
| Savings | 50-70% | 50-60% |
The Korean Double Eyelid Aesthetic
Korean vs. Western Approach
| Aspect | Korean Style | Western Style |
|---|---|---|
| Height | Lower, subtle crease | Higher crease |
| Shape | Tapered (narrower inner) | Parallel throughout |
| Goal | Natural enhancement | More dramatic |
| Philosophy | "Prettier you" | Often more change |
Popular Styles in Korea
In-fold (인폴드)
- Crease hidden when eyes open
- Most natural for Asians
- Popular for men
Out-fold (아웃폴드)
- Crease visible above lashes
- More defined look
- Popular for women wanting more definition
Tapered (속쌍)
- Narrower at inner corner
- Wider toward outer corner
- Most natural Asian shape
Results and Recovery
Recovery Timeline
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1-3 | Significant swelling, bruising |
| Day 3-7 | Swelling decreases, stitches out (day 5-7) |
| Week 2 | Most swelling gone, can wear makeup |
| Week 3-4 | Natural appearance emerging |
| Month 3 | Near-final result |
| Month 6-12 | Final settled result |
Swelling Progression
- Non-incisional: 70% resolved by 1 week
- Full incision: 70% resolved by 2 weeks
- Complete resolution: 3-6 months
Scar Visibility
Non-incisional: No visible scar Incisional:
- Initially visible
- Fades significantly by 3-6 months
- Usually hidden in crease
The Surgery Experience
Before Surgery
Consultation (1-2 hours):
- Eye assessment
- Computer simulation (some clinics)
- Method recommendation
- Medical history review
Pre-surgery requirements:
- Stop blood thinners
- No alcohol for 1 week
- No smoking for 2 weeks
- Blood tests
During Surgery (30-90 minutes)
- Local anesthesia or light sedation
- Marking of desired crease
- Procedure performed
- Sutures placed
- Recovery monitoring
After Surgery
First 48 hours:
- Cold compresses
- Head elevated
- Antibiotic ointment
- Pain medication as needed
First week:
- Avoid strenuous activity
- No rubbing eyes
- Keep area clean
- Return for stitch removal
First month:
- Avoid contact lenses (2 weeks)
- No eye makeup (2 weeks)
- Sun protection
- Gradual return to normal
Who is a Good Candidate?
Ideal Candidates
- Adults in good health
- Realistic expectations
- Specific aesthetic goals
- Non-smokers
- No eye diseases
Best Results If
- Good skin elasticity
- Clear understanding of desired outcome
- Willing to follow recovery instructions
- Patient through healing process
May Need Different Approach
- Significant ptosis (droopy lid)
- Very asymmetric eyes
- Previous eye surgery
- Certain medical conditions
Choosing a Surgeon in Seoul
What to Look For
- Board certification: Korean plastic surgery board
- Specialization: Focus on eyes
- Before/after photos: Similar cases to yours
- Communication: Can explain options clearly
- Reviews: Patient testimonials
Questions to Ask
- What technique do you recommend for me?
- Can I see before/after of similar patients?
- What crease height/shape do you suggest?
- What's the recovery like?
- What if I'm not satisfied?
Red Flags
- Won't show portfolio
- Recommends same procedure for everyone
- Extremely low prices
- Pressure to decide immediately
- Poor communication
Realistic Expectations
What Surgery CAN Do
- Create natural-looking crease
- Make eyes appear larger
- Fix asymmetry
- Remove excess skin
- Improve makeup application
What Surgery CANNOT Do
- Change eye color
- Dramatically change eye shape
- Guarantee perfect symmetry
- Make Asian eyes look Western (and shouldn't)
Important Understanding
- Subtle asymmetry is normal
- Results evolve over months
- Some adjustment may be needed
- Final result at 6-12 months
FAQ
Q: How long does the surgery take? A: 30-60 minutes for non-incisional, 60-90 minutes for incisional.
Q: Is it painful? A: Local anesthesia makes the procedure painless. Mild discomfort during recovery is managed with medication.
Q: When can I return to work? A: Non-incisional: 5-7 days. Incisional: 10-14 days for most swelling to subside.
Q: Will people know I had surgery? A: Initial swelling is obvious. After healing, well-done surgery looks natural.
Q: Can it be reversed? A: Non-incisional can sometimes be reversed. Incisional is permanent.
Q: How long do results last? A: Non-incisional: May loosen after 5-10 years. Incisional: Permanent.
Q: What about revisions? A: Possible if needed, but more complex than primary surgery.
Q: Is it safe? A: Very safe when performed by qualified surgeons. Complications are rare.
Conclusion
Double eyelid surgery in Korea offers world-class expertise at competitive prices. Korean surgeons understand Asian eye anatomy and aesthetics, creating natural-looking results that enhance rather than change your appearance.
Considering double eyelid surgery? Book a consultation with a reputable Korean plastic surgeon and discover your options for beautiful, natural-looking results.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about double eyelid surgery. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified plastic surgeon before undergoing any surgical procedure. Individual results may vary.
Last Updated: January 2025 Prices as of January 2025. Actual costs may vary by surgeon and complexity.