Criteria and Selection of Surgical Methods
There is no single “best” method for double eyelid surgery. Each technique has clear advantages, limitations, and ideal eye structures. The correct approach depends entirely on the structural needs of your eyelids.
Natural Adhesion
Natural adhesion creates a fold by connecting the eyelid tissues with sutures without making an incision. Because there is almost no cutting, recovery is fast and the result appears extremely natural.
Best suited for
- Thin skin with minimal fat
- Strong eyelid opening power
- Preference for natural in-line folds
- First-time surgery with clean eyelid structure
Advantages
- Fastest recovery
- Quick return to daily activities
- Almost no scarring
- Ideal for natural in-line designs
Limitations
- Higher risk of loosening with thick skin or excess fat
- Not suitable for revision or severe asymmetry
- Difficult to create high or dramatic lines
Combo Non-Incisional
Combo Non-Incisional involves a minimal incision to adjust fat and muscle while reinforcing adhesion, bridging the gap between natural adhesion and full incision.
Best suited for
- Thin skin with minimal fat
- Strong eyelid opening power
- Preference for natural in-line folds
- First-time surgery with clean eyelid structure
Advantages
- Fastest recovery
- Quick return to daily activities
- Almost no scarring
- Ideal for natural in-line designs
Limitations
- Higher risk of loosening with thick skin or excess fat
- Not suitable for revision or severe asymmetry
- Difficult to create high or dramatic lines
The Incisional Method involves making a controlled incision to precisely adjust fat, muscle, and adhesion structures, offering the most comprehensive correction. It is primarily used for thick eyelids, revision cases, and severe asymmetry.
Best suited for
- Thick skin and heavy fat
- Structurally heavy eyelids
- Severe asymmetry or revision cases
- Weak eyelid opening strength (ptosis)
- Those seeking dramatic and well-defined results
Advantages
- Strongest line retention
- Maximum flexibility for tissue adjustment
- Can be combined with ptosis correction
- Stable for both semi-out and out-line
Limitations
- Strongest line retention
- Maximum flexibility for tissue adjustment
- Can be combined with ptosis correction
- Stable for both semi-out and out-line
* Results of surgery may vary depending on the individual, and there may be side effects such as hemorrhaging, inflammation, etc.
Differences in Appearance by Eyelid Line
The eyelid line completely reshapes your facial impression. In-line creates the softest look, In-Out adds clarity and charm, Semi-Out balances elegance and definition, while Out-line delivers a bold, dramatic eye shape.
In-line
The most natural crease that follows the lash line closely. Even with swelling, it remains subtle and natural.
- Feature: Most natural, inner-fold appearance
- Image: Soft and clean impression
- Recommended for: Those who want no visible surgical look
In-Out Line
A hybrid between in-line and out-line. It starts naturally at the inner corner and becomes more defined toward the center.
- Feature: Clearer than in-line, softer than out-line
- Image: Bright, gentle, and charming
- Recommended for: Those seeking both clarity and naturalness
Semi-Out Line
Balanced between natural and glamorous. Particularly popular among Korean and Southeast Asian patients.
- Feature: Defined yet natural
- Image: Clean with noticeable definition
- Recommended for: Those who feel in-line is dull but out-line is too bold
Out-line
The fold rises clearly above the inner corner, creating the most prominent crease.
- Feature: Most dramatic and bold
- Image: Sharp, deep, three-dimensional
- Recommended for: Deep-set eyes, Western-type eyes, major transformations
Recommended Combinations by Eye & Face Type
There is no single “perfect” double eyelid line that suits everyone. The optimal result varies depending on each individual’s unique eye structure.
| Condition | Best Method | Recommended Line | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Most natural result |
Non-incisional |
In-line |
Almost no surgical look |
|
Natural + defined |
Partial incision |
Semi-out |
Balanced stability |
|
Strong change |
Full incision |
Out-line |
Eye width expansion |
|
Thick fat/skin |
Full incision |
Semi-out or Out |
Strong retention needed |
|
Ptosis |
Full incision |
Semi-out |
Stable after correction |
|
Sunken eyes |
Full incision |
Out-line |
Clear crease formation |
|
First-time surgery |
Partial incision |
Semi-out |
Safest balanced option |
FAQ
Which line is the most beautiful?
There is no universal answer. It depends entirely on eye structure and facial balance.
Are higher lines always prettier?
Excessively high lines increase artificial appearance and loosening risk.
Does non-incisional surgery always loosen easily?
With thin skin and low fat, results can remain stable long-term.
Does revision surgery always require incision?
Usually yes, but some low-damage cases may allow partial incision.
Can I change only the line design?
It depends on existing adhesion and scar condition.
What if I have a lot of fat?
Full or partial incision is safest. Non-incisional alone has high loosening risk.
Travel & Recovery Schedule for Overseas Patients
Overseas patients are generally advised to stay at least 7 days in Korea.
This allows
- Swelling to subside
- Stitches removal (Day 5–7)
- Initial recovery assessment
Minimum Stay
7 days is ideal for complete early recovery.
- Surgery
- 48-hour cold compression
- Post-op check
- Stitch removal
- Initial swelling reduction
Leaving earlier than this is not recommended.
Pre-Surgery Precautions
- Stop contact lens use
- No alcohol or smoking 48 hours prior
- Stop blood-thinning supplements
- No heavy eye makeup
- Remove eyelash extensions before surgery
Post-Surgery Care
0–48 Hours
- Cold compress
- Sleep with head elevated
- No rubbing
- No water contact
Day 2–7
- Light cleansing allowed
- Avoid soaking eyes
- No makeup until stitch removal
- Natural reduction of swelling & bruising
Stitch Removal
- Mild swelling/bruising is normal
- Temporary swelling may increase during flight
- Warm compress before flight
- Hydration is essential
Return Flight Timing
Most patients return home after Day 7.
- Mild swelling and bruising are normal.
- Temporary swelling may increase during flight.
- Warm compress before flight.
- Hydration is essential.
By 2–4 weeks, the appearance typically looks natural in daily life.
