Everything you need to know about getting double eyelid surgery in Korea

Double eyelid surgery, also known as Asian blepharoplasty, is a popular cosmetic procedure in Korea that creates a crease in the upper eyelid, often absent in monolids. This surgery is not only sought for aesthetic enhancement, such as achieving a larger, more symmetric almond-shaped eye, but also to address structural issues like droopy eyelids.

With a variety of techniques available, from non-incisional to full incisional methods, the procedure can be customized to individual preferences and anatomical considerations. Korea, known for its advanced medical expertise and competitive pricing, has become a leading destination for this procedure. Read on to learn more about what double eyelid surgery is, the cost, and the best clinics (like Made Young and THE PLUS) in Korea for this transformative procedure.
   

What Is Double Eyelid Surgery

Double eyelid surgery, or Asian blepharoplasty, is a procedure designed to create an eyelid crease in individuals who have monolids or single eyelids. This crease adds definition to the eye and is often desired for aesthetic reasons, such as making the eyes appear larger and more expressive. The process involves various techniques, including the incisional method, which is suitable for those with excess fat and skin and provides permanent results, and the non-incisional method, ideal for patients without excess fat or skin, offering minimal swelling and scarring. The benefits of double eyelid surgery extend beyond aesthetics, as it can also improve vision for those with droopy eyelids and make applying makeup easier.

1. Non-Incisional Double Eyelid Surgery

Non-incisional double eyelid surgery is a cosmetic procedure designed to create a natural-looking double eyelid without making external incisions. During the surgery, five small puncture holes are strategically placed, through which a permanent suture is introduced. This suture is carefully positioned to pull the outer skin downward onto the tarsal plate, which is the fibrous structure providing framework to the upper eyelid.

By manipulating the eyelid structure through these minimal punctures, the surgery aims to form a double eyelid, enhancing the eyes' appearance with a subtler and less invasive approach compared to traditional incisional methods. The non-incisional technique often results in quicker recovery times and reduced scarring, making it an appealing option for those seeking eyelid enhancement with minimal disruption.
 
2. Incisional Double Eyelid Surgery

Incisional double eyelid surgery involves a small incision made across the upper eyelid, strategically positioned to create the desired double eyelid crease. During the procedure, a minimal amount of skin is carefully removed from the ideal location where the crease is intended to form. Depending on the individual's unique anatomy and the specific results they wish to achieve, the surgeon may also excise varying amounts of skin, muscle, or fat from the targeted area.

This surgical technique allows for a more customizable approach, enabling the surgeon to tailor the procedure to the patient's specific eyelid structure and aesthetic preferences. While incisional double eyelid surgery typically requires a longer recovery period compared to non-incisional methods, it often provides more precise and dramatic outcomes, making it a popular choice for those seeking a well-defined double eyelid appearance.
   

Why Get Double Eyelid Surgery in Korea

Korea is renowned for its expertise in plastic surgery, particularly for procedures like double eyelid surgery. Korean surgeons are highly skilled in creating natural-looking results that complement an individual's facial features. The country's medical infrastructure is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring high standards of safety and care. Additionally, Korea offers competitive pricing for cosmetic procedures, making it an attractive destination for those seeking high-quality treatment at a more affordable cost compared to other countries.
 

What Does Double Eyelid Surgery in Korea Involve

For foreign visitors coming to Korea for double eyelid surgery, the process is meticulously planned to ensure comfort and convenience. Clinics often provide comprehensive services, including pre-surgery consultations, personalized surgical plans, and post-operative care. The procedure itself is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation, and depending on the method, may involve incisions or sutures to create the desired eyelid crease. Recovery times vary, but clinics in Korea are known for their attentive aftercare, helping patients return to their daily activities as quickly as possible.

The duration of double eyelid surgery in Korea can vary depending on the chosen method. Non-incisional procedures can take as little as 30 minutes, while incisional surgeries may last up to an hour. Recovery times also differ, with non-incisional methods allowing for a quicker return to normal activities, often within a few days. Incisional surgeries may require a longer healing period, typically one to two weeks. Regardless of the method, Korean clinics are adept at minimizing downtime, allowing patients to enjoy their new look with minimal interruption to their lives.

Here’s the breakdown of the procedure:

1. Pre-Surgical Consultation: Before the surgery, you will have a consultation with your plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, evaluate your eyelid anatomy, and decide on the best surgical approach. This is also the time to discuss any medical conditions or allergies you might have, and to receive instructions on how to prepare for surgery and recovery. 
2. Hospitalization: Typically, double eyelid surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you won’t need to stay overnight at the hospital. It may require only one day for the surgery and immediate post-operative observation before you can go home. 
3. Anesthesia: Double eyelid surgery often uses sleeping anesthesia, where you will be asleep and not feel any pain during the procedure. Your vital signs and comfort will be closely monitored by an anesthesiologist. 
4. Surgery Procedure: Once the anesthesia takes effect, the surgery, which lasts around one to two hours, begins. During the procedure, the surgeon makes precise incisions in the natural folds of your eyelid or where the new crease will be. Through these incisions, they might remove or reposition tissue and fat, depending on the desired outcome and pre-discussed plan. Sutures are then used to create the new eyelid crease.
5. Stitch Removal: Approximately one week later, you will need to return to the clinic to have the stitches removed. This is a quick and generally straightforward process. 
6. Full Recovery: The total recovery time for double eyelid surgery can vary but is generally around one to two weeks. During this period, you might experience swelling, bruising, irritation, or dry eyes. It's crucial to follow your surgeon's advice regarding post-operative care, such as avoiding certain activities and using prescribed medications or ointments.
7. Final Results: It can take several weeks to months for the final results of the surgery to stabilize. Initially, the creases may appear higher or more pronounced due to the swelling. As the healing progresses, the true outcome of the surgery will become apparent.

 

Have any questions about getting double eyelid surgery in Korea or about the different types of eyelid surgery procedures? Feel free to reach out to us on WhatsApp with any question you might have! Click here to contact us on WhatsApp

 

Best Double Eyelid Surgery Clinics in Korea

Korea is home to numerous clinics that specialize in double eyelid surgery, each offering a unique approach to this transformative procedure. These clinics are renowned for their skilled surgeons, advanced techniques, and exceptional patient care, ensuring that individuals receive the best possible results.

Not sure which clinic to contact? Why not use a local medical tourism service that will help you get in contact with the right clinic. Find out more about ShinMedical here. 
    

1. Made Young Plastic Surgery

At Made Young, there are two primary types of double eyelid surgery offered, each tailored to meet different aesthetic goals and physical eye conditions.

Incisional Double Eyelid Surgery: 

• This procedure involves making an incision in the eyelid to remove excess skin, fat, and sometimes muscle to create a more defined eyelid crease.
• Suitable for individuals with a lot of eyelid fat or severe drooping.
• Provides a permanent and pronounced double eyelid line.
• Involves suturing the skin and the levator palpebrae superioris muscle delicately to ensure that the eyelids do not loosen over time.
• Recovery involves stitch removal after seven days and generally takes about one week for initial healing.
• Ideal Candidates: Those with thicker eyelids, more fat, or need more dramatic changes in eyelid structure.
   

Natural Adhesion Double Eyelid Surgery:

• This method focuses on minimal incision techniques that aim to create a natural-looking double eyelid line that is less invasive than the incisional method.
• Uses fine sutures to connect the skin to underlying muscle, leading to a natural adhesion that prevents loosening. 
• Scarring is minimal, and recovery is typically faster, offering a quick return to daily activities.Also addresses pseudoptosis (mild drooping) by correcting the eye-opening muscle strength, which enhances the natural eye shape without the appearance of being operated.
• Ideal Candidates: Individuals who prefer a more natural look, have less eyelid fat, or those concerned about recovery time and visible scarring.

Both techniques are designed based on individual eye conditions and aesthetic preferences, ensuring tailored results for each patient. In both methods, Made Young utilizes 1:1 customized care from experienced plastic surgeons, ensuring specialized consultation and precise results, fitting the unique eye shape and facial aesthetics of each patient.

Find more info about Made Young on their official website. 
     

2. THE PLUS Plastic Surgery

At THE PLUS Plastic Surgery, double eyelid surgery is not just a routine procedure; it's a personalized approach to enhance the unique beauty and individuality of each client's eyes. The practice emphasizes creating natural-looking double eyelids that complement each individual's facial attributes, such as eyebrow height, shape, and overall facial contour.

Highlights of THE PLUS Approach:

1. Customized Surgeries: Given that no two sets of eyes are the same, THE PLUS offers a bespoke design for each individual. Differences even between the two eyes of the same person are considered, ensuring a balanced and symmetrical outcome tailor-made for each client.
2. Skilled Medical Staff: The clinic prides itself on a team of highly skilled medical professionals who engage in continuous research to stay at the forefront of the field. This expertise allows for precise and safe surgeries that fulfill client expectations.
3. Advanced Safety and Equipment: Utilizing cutting-edge technology and adhering to stringent safety protocols, THE PLUS ensures the highest standards of surgery safety and hygiene. An uninterrupted power supply (UPS) system, among others, safeguards against unexpected complications.
4. Comprehensive Post-Surgery Care: From the initial consultation through the recovery period, THE PLUS provides thorough follow-up care, ensuring a smooth recovery and the optimal outcome of the surgery.

For those interested in pursuing double eyelid surgery or learning more about the specific offerings and methodologies at THE PLUS, the clinic encourages potential clients to engage through WhatsApp for easy and convenient consultations. This accessibility supports THE PLUS’s commitment to client-centered care, seamlessly from consultation through to post-surgery follow-up.

Find more info about The PLUS Clinic on their official website. 
   

Double Eyelid Surgery Aftercare

After undergoing double eyelid surgery in Korea, patients are provided with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and results. This typically includes daily wound care, avoiding strenuous activities, and following up for suture removal within a week. Clinics may also advise on sleeping positions, the use of cold compresses to reduce swelling, and guidelines for when to resume wearing makeup or contact lenses. Adhering to these aftercare recommendations is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic outcome and preventing complications.
 

Cost of Double Eyelid Surgery in Korea

The cost of double eyelid surgery in Korea is generally more affordable than in the USA. While prices can vary depending on the clinic and the specific technique used, patients can expect to pay between $1,000 to $3,000 for the procedure in Korea. In contrast, the cost in the USA ranges from $3,200 to $4,100, not including additional expenses such as anesthesia and facility fees. The lower cost in Korea, combined with the high level of expertise and care, makes it a beneficial option for those considering double eyelid surgery.
 

Alternatives to Double Eyelid Surgery

For those hesitant about undergoing surgery, there are non-surgical alternatives to achieve the appearance of double eyelids. Double eyelid tape and glue can temporarily create a crease, although they may cause skin irritation or stretching over time. Double eyelid makeup techniques can also simulate a crease for a non-surgical option. However, these alternatives do not offer permanent results and may not be suitable for everyone.