Incisional Double Eyelid Surgery in Seoul: A Lasting, Defined Crease
The short answer
Incisional double eyelid surgery creates a permanent upper eyelid crease through a fine cut along the planned fold, allowing the surgeon to remove extra skin, muscle or fat and fix the skin to the deeper lid structures. In Gangnam it typically costs about KRW 1.5–3 million, takes about 1 hour under local anesthesia with sedation, and stitches come out at 5–7 days. Visible swelling usually eases within 2 weeks.
Key facts
- Best for: Thicker or fuller lids, extra skin, a lasting crease
- Typical cost in Gangnam: About KRW 1.5–3 million
- Procedure time: About 1 hour
- Anesthesia: Local with sedation
- Stitches out: About 5–7 days
- Visible swelling: About 2 weeks; final crease in 3–6 months
- Durability: Generally permanent
Why the open method lasts
Your upper lid has layers: thin skin, the orbicularis (the muscle that closes the eye), the orbital septum (a membrane holding back fat), the fat pads and, deepest, the levator and tarsus. The levator is the muscle that lifts the lid, and the tarsus is the firm plate along the lash line. A crease forms wherever the skin is attached to these deeper structures, so when the levator lifts, the skin folds on that line.
Through an incision on the crease line, the surgeon can see and treat every layer. Extra skin, a thin strip of muscle and some fat can be removed, so the lid above the fold looks less heavy and the crease shows clearly. The skin edge is then stitched to the levator or tarsus, which creates a scar-based attachment. That is why incisional creases rarely fade the way suture creases sometimes do.
Most often chosen for and combined with
- Thick or puffy upper lids
- Some extra skin that would hide a suture crease
- A previous suture crease that has loosened
- Wanting a long-lasting result
It is often combined with ptosis correction and epicanthoplasty. Read our natural crease guide for design ideas.
The procedure, step by step
Mark and incise
With you seated, the surgeon marks the crease height and shape, often 6–8 mm above the lashes for a natural Asian crease. Under local anesthesia, a fine cut is made along the line, and a small amount of skin is removed if needed.
Debulk and fix
A thin strip of orbicularis and some fat are trimmed to reduce heaviness. The skin edges are then stitched to the levator aponeurosis or tarsus at several points to set the crease.
Where the incision is made
Along the full length of the new crease, so it sits in the fold when your eyes are open.
How the scar heals over 12 months
The line is pink and slightly raised for 4–8 weeks, softens over 3–6 months and typically looks like a natural crease by 12 months. When your eyes are closed, a faint line may remain visible.
Recovery timeline
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Swelling and mild bruising; cold compresses |
| Days 5–7 | Stitches out |
| Weeks 2–4 | Crease looks higher than planned until swelling falls |
| Months 3–6 | Final height and softness |
Is it right for you?
A good fit if you
- Have thicker lids, fat or extra skin
- Want a crease that will not fade
- Accept a fine scar line
Another option may suit you better if
- You have thin lids with little fat and want minimal downtime: see non-incisional double eyelid surgery
Risks to discuss at your consultation
Ask about asymmetry, a crease that is too high, a "sausage" look from prolonged swelling, a visible or depressed scar and the difficulty of lowering a crease that is set too high. Ask about the clinic's revision policy; see also eyelid revision in Korea.
Incisional double eyelid surgery cost in Seoul
Typical Gangnam prices are KRW 1.5–3 million for both eyes. Adding ptosis correction or epicanthoplasty raises the total.
Incisional vs. non-incisional double eyelid
| Incisional | Non-incisional | |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Permanent | Can loosen over years |
| Removes skin or fat | Yes | No (minimal fat via puncture) |
| Swelling | About 2 weeks | About 3–7 days |
| Reversible | Difficult | Sutures can be removed |
| Typical cost | KRW 1.5–3 million | KRW 1–2 million |
This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Prices are typical ranges reported by Gangnam clinics in 2026 and vary by clinic, doctor and treatment plan; confirm directly with the clinic.
Patient questions
Frequently asked questions
Is incisional double eyelid surgery permanent?
It is generally considered permanent because the crease is held by a scar attachment rather than sutures alone.
Will the scar show when my eyes are closed?
A faint line may be visible with eyes closed, especially in the first months, but usually fades well.
Why does my crease look too high at first?
Swelling pushes the fold up. It usually drops to the planned height over several weeks.
Can a high crease be lowered?
It is possible but technically difficult, so conservative design matters.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
About 7–10 days to have stitches removed and a follow-up check.
Not sure which Gangnam clinic is right for you?
Tell us your goals, budget and travel dates. Our English-speaking coordinators compare doctor-led clinics and usually reply with free quotes within 24 hours.