Double eyelid surgery is the most popular cosmetic procedure worldwide, and South Korea is renowned worldwide for its advanced techniques in eye surgery. Every year, a large number of Chinese tourists travel to South Korea specifically for Double eyelid surgery. But what exactly are the differences between the Non-incisional (buried suture) method and the Full incision method? Which one is more suitable for you? How long does it take to recover after the surgery? This article will help you understand all the details of Double eyelid surgery in South Korea, from the basic principles to the costs.
The two main procedures for Double eyelid surgery
Procedure 1: Non-incisional (buried suture) method
The Non-incisional (buried suture) method is the least invasive form of Double eyelid surgery. It involves making several very small incisions and using special sutures to attach the skin of the eyelid to the tarsal plate, thereby creating the Double eyelid fold. The entire procedure takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes, leaves no visible scars, and allows for a rapid recovery.
- Suitable for: Young people (aged 20–30) with thin eyelids, no excess fat, and no significant sagging who seek a natural look.
- Advantages: Minimally invasive procedure, no obvious scars, quick recovery (swelling subsides basically within 1 week), and reversible effect (stitches can be removed to restore the original state).
- Disadvantages: The durability is only 3 to 5 years, and the eyelid strips are prone to falling off when the condition of the eyelids is poor.
- Reference price in South Korea in 2026: 1 million to 1.5 million South Korean won (approximately 5,300 to 7,950 yuan)
Procedure 2: Full incision method
The Full incision method is the procedure that provides the most lasting results. It involves making an incision along the designed line on the eyelid skin, removing excess fat and skin, and then suturing the area to create a clear and permanent Double eyelid surgery result.
- Suitable for: People with thick or sagging eyelids, those with puffy eyes (due to excess fat), those who need muscle lifting and correction, and those seeking permanent results.
- Advantages: Permanent results; capable of addressing both fat accumulation and muscle tightening issues simultaneously; wide range of applications
- Disadvantages: The recovery period is relatively long (3 to 6 months are required for a completely natural outcome), and the effects are irreversible.
- Reference price in South Korea in 2026: 1.5 million to 2.5 million South Korean won (approximately 7,950 to 13,250 yuan)
Procedure 3: Korean Three-Point Method (partial incision)
A compromise option between minimally invasive procedures and full incisions: three small incisions are made to remove a small amount of fat, followed by stitching. This approach combines the advantages of minimal invasiveness and rapid recovery with a certain degree of durability. It is suitable for individuals with moderate eyelid conditions and low amounts of fat.
- Persistence: More than 5 to 10 years
- Recovery period: 2 to 3 weeks
- Reference price in South Korea in 2026: 1.3 million to 2 million South Korean won (approximately 6,890 to 10,600 yuan)
Comprehensive comparison of the three procedures
| Comparative dimensions | Non-incisional (buried suture) method | Korean three-point method | Total excision method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operation time | 20 to 30 minutes | 30 to 45 minutes | 45 to 90 minutes |
| Trauma | Minimally invasive procedure with no incisions required | Three small incisions | Full-length incision |
| Persistence | 3 to 5 years | 5 to 10 years or more | permanent |
| Recovery period (substantial reduction in swelling) | 1 to 2 weeks | 2 to 3 weeks | It takes 3 to 6 months for the results to become completely natural. |
| scar | Almost none | Extremely small | The effects are obvious in the initial stage but fade after 1 year. |
| reversibility | The stitches can be removed for recovery. | Irreparable | irreversible |
| Fat removal | Not possible. | a small amount | It can handle all situations comprehensively. |
| Price (Korean won) | 1 million to 1.5 million | 1.3 to 2 million | 1.5 to 2.5 million |
| Agree on the amount in RMB | 5,300 to 7,950 yuan | 6,890 to 10,600 yuan | 7,950 to 13,250 yuan |
What is the difference in effect when adding canthoplasty as well?
Many people consider undergoing inner canthoplasty at the same time as Double eyelid surgery to lengthen the eye shape and remove excess skin around the inner canthus. When these two procedures are performed together, patients can enjoy a combined discount of 10% to 15%.
| Project | effect | Reference prices in South Korea for 2026 | Agree on the amount in RMB |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plasty of the inner canthus | Reduction surgery to narrow the distance between the eyes, make them appear longer, and remove excess skin. | 1 million to 1.6 million Korean won | 5,300 to 8,480 yuan |
| External canthoplasty | The eyes are elongated horizontally, and the corners of the eyes are opened wider. | 1.2 to 1.8 million Korean won | 6,360 to 9,540 yuan |
| Double eyelid surgery + inner canthoplasty combined | Complete it in one go for the most comprehensive results. | 2 million to 3.5 million Korean won | RMB 10,600 to RMB 18,550 |
Detailed schedule for the post-operative recovery period
Recovery timeline for the Non-incisional (buried suture) method
| Time milestones | Status | Precautions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 to 3 days after the procedure | Slight swelling, and the eyelids feel tight | Apply cold compresses, avoid rubbing your eyes, and keep your head elevated while sleeping. |
| 1 week after the procedure | The swelling is largely reduced; you can go out while wearing a mask or sunglasses. | Avoid strenuous exercise and do not wash your eyes. |
| 2 to 4 weeks after the procedure | It has a natural appearance and allows for light makeup application. | Do not wear contact lenses; continue to use sun protection. |
| 1 to 3 months after the procedure | The results are stable, and the wrinkles are completely set in place. | Normal care is sufficient. |
Recovery schedule after the Full incision method
| Time milestones | Status | Precautions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 to 3 days after the procedure | There is obvious swelling, and the stitches are visible. | Apply cold compresses, avoid touching the affected area, and change the dressing on time. |
| 1 week after the surgery | Even after the stitches were removed, there was still a sense of swelling. | Take medications as prescribed by your doctor and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. |
| One month after the surgery | The swelling has largely subsided, but the scar remains reddish in color. | Use scar cream and avoid spicy and irritating foods. |
| 3 to 6 months after the procedure | Scar lightening – the results are completely natural. | Sun protection, moisturization, and occasional massage of scars |
How to choose a hospital for Double eyelid surgery in South Korea? 5 key criteria
- Verify the doctor’s qualifications: Ensure that they hold the professional physician certification from the South Korea Plastic Surgeons Association (KSPRS) and have at least 10 years of experience in performing eye surgeries.
- View pre-operative cases: Focus on real cases where the surgeon personally performed the procedure (not promotional images). Pay attention to whether the shape of the eyes appears natural and whether they are symmetrical on both sides.
- In-person consultation: In regular hospitals, a face-to-face consultation is essential before the procedure. The doctor will personally assess the shape of the eyes, the amount of fat present, and the condition of the lifting muscles before determining the treatment plan.
- Equipment verification: Hospitals that use precision instruments such as endoscopes and high-power magnifying glasses perform their procedures with greater accuracy.
- Chinese-language services: Choose a clinic that provides Chinese translations or Chinese-speaking staff to avoid communication barriers that could affect the outcome of your treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I take a flight back to my home country on the same day after having Double eyelid surgery?
A: For the Non-incisional (buried suture) method, you can travel on the day after the procedure. It is recommended to stay in Korea for at least 1 to 2 nights for observation. For the Full incision method, it is advised to stay in Korea for 5 to 7 days. Wait until the stitches are removed before returning home to avoid exacerbating swelling due to long-distance flights.
Q: Does Double eyelid surgery hurt?
A: Local anesthetic is injected before the procedure, so there is virtually no pain during the operation. After the anesthetic wears off, there may be some mild swelling and discomfort, but this can usually be managed with oral painkillers. Most people find that the experience is much more comfortable than they expected.
Q: What should I do if the Non-incisional (buried suture) method results in the suture coming loose?
A: If the threads become loose after the procedure, causing the lines to fade or disappear, it is possible to have them reinserted (the cost is usually lower than the initial procedure), or to opt for the Full incision method for a permanent result. Some reputable hospitals offer free follow-up procedures if the threads become loose within one year; please inquire before the procedure.
Q: Is Double eyelid surgery cheaper in South Korea than in China?
A: The cost of Double eyelid surgery at top plastic surgery hospitals in South Korea is comparable to that at top hospitals in first-tier cities in China. However, the technical expertise and aesthetic approaches differ. South Korea’s strengths lie in its more mature techniques in “natural-looking designs” and “complex eye repair procedures,” making them suitable for those with extremely high expectations for the results or who require secondary corrections.
In summary: Which method is right for you?
| Your situation | Recommended procedures |
|---|---|
| Thin eyelids, good underlying conditions, and a desire for quick recovery | Non-incisional (buried suture) method |
| My eyelids are of average size; I would like the results to last longer. | Korean three-point method |
| Thick, sagging eyelids or puffy eyes – seeking permanent results | Full incision method |
| Short eyes with epicanthic folds | Double eyelid surgery + inner canthoplasty combined |
| I have tried it before, but the results were not satisfactory. | After the in-person consultation, the doctor will evaluate the appropriate treatment plan. |
Regardless of which procedure you choose, a pre-operative consultation is an essential step that cannot be skipped. It is recommended to book an appointment at a legitimate plastic surgery clinic in South Korea through BeautsGO. With Chinese-speaking services throughout the process, you can ensure that you have thorough discussions with the doctor regarding the design of your eye shape, so that the surgical results meet your expectations.