📋 In This Guide
Non-Incisional vs Incisional Double Eyelid Surgery
| Factor | Non-Incisional (Suture) | Incisional (Full Cut) |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Tiny punctures + sutures create fold | Skin excised; crease surgically created |
| Scarring | Virtually none (points heal invisibly) | Fine line along crease (hidden when open) |
| Recovery | 1–2 weeks swelling | 3–6 weeks significant swelling |
| Longevity | 5–10 years (may loosen with age) | Permanent |
| Best for | Thin lids, young patients, reversibility | Hooded lids, ptosis, excess fat/skin |
| Korea price | ₩500,000–₩1,200,000 | ₩800,000–₩2,500,000 |
Korean surgeons are world leaders in both techniques. The majority of foreign visitors opt for non-incisional first as the shorter recovery fits travel schedules. Incisional is recommended by surgeons for patients with hooded or heavy eyelids where the suture method is unlikely to hold long-term.
Double Eyelid Surgery Korea Prices (2026)
| Procedure | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Non-incisional (natural crease) | ₩500,000–₩1,200,000 | 3-point or multi-point suture; most popular |
| Incisional (full cut) | ₩800,000–₩2,500,000 | Includes fat repositioning if needed |
| Ptosis correction (add-on) | ₩400,000–₩1,200,000 | Lifts drooping upper lid; enhances eye opening |
| Epicanthoplasty (inner corner) | ₩300,000–₩800,000 | Widens the eye horizontally; often combined |
| Under-eye fat repositioning | ₩600,000–₩1,500,000 | Removes or relocates under-eye fat bags |
Recovery Timeline
Non-Incisional
- Days 1–3: Significant swelling; avoid public appearances if possible
- Days 4–7: Swelling reduces; most can return to work with makeup coverage
- Weeks 2–4: Swelling mostly gone; results visible but still settling
- Month 3: Final natural-looking result
Incisional
- Week 1: Significant bruising and swelling; stitches removed at day 7
- Weeks 2–3: Most social activities manageable with makeup
- Month 1–2: Visible scar fading; fold settling into natural crease
- Month 3–6: Final result — scarring becomes invisible within crease
Top Seoul Clinics for Double Eyelid Surgery
Seoul I Plastic Surgery
4.6★ · Eyelid specialist · Non-incisional & incisional both available
View Clinic →Planning Your Trip as a Foreign Patient
- Consultation first: Many clinics offer online pre-consultations via photo/video — arrange this before travelling to confirm you are a good candidate and get a quote
- Multiple consultations: It is standard in Korea to visit 2–3 clinics before deciding — no pressure to commit on the day
- Accommodation: Stay within 20 minutes of your clinic for easy follow-up visits; Gangnam and Seocho have many serviced apartments
- Practical items to bring: Cold gel packs, eye drops, soft food supplies for the first few days
- Insurance: Travel insurance covering elective medical procedures is strongly recommended
FAQ
What if I am not happy with the result?
Most reputable Korean clinics offer at least one free revision consultation. For non-incisional procedures, the suture can be released and the crease adjusted relatively easily. Communicate any concerns at your follow-up appointment — Korean surgeons are accustomed to working with international patients on revision expectations.
Can I wear contact lenses after surgery?
You should avoid contact lenses for at least 2 weeks after non-incisional and 3–4 weeks after incisional surgery. Glasses are fine. Plan accordingly if you rely on contacts daily.
Is the crease height customisable?
Yes. You and your surgeon will agree on crease height (typically 6–8mm for a natural look, 8–10mm for a higher, more dramatic crease) and shape (parallel or tapered/inside fold) before the procedure. Most surgeons draw the proposed crease on your eyelid for you to approve before incisions are made.
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