Quick answer: Double eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) in Seoul usually takes 30 to 90 minutes under local anesthesia with sedation. Stitches come out around day 5 to 7, most visible bruising fades within two weeks, and the crease looks natural at about three months, with final settling by six months. Plan to stay in Seoul at least 7 to 10 days for the stitch removal and first check.
What does double eyelid surgery actually change?
The operation creates or refines a fold (crease) in the upper eyelid by linking the skin to the muscle or tissue that lifts the lid. Many East Asian eyelids have a low or absent crease, so the procedure is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic operations in Korea. It can also remove a little excess skin or fat. It does not change eye color or the eye's position, and it does not on its own fix a weak eyelid muscle; that is ptosis correction, which is often combined.
Incisional vs non-incisional: which method fits you?
- Non-incisional (suture or buried-stitch): small punctures, buried stitches, no skin removal. Shorter swelling, reversible to a degree, but the fold can loosen or disappear over time. Best for thin lids with little excess skin.
- Partial incision: a short incision allows some fat removal with less scarring. A middle option for moderately thick lids.
- Full incision: an incision along the planned crease, with skin, fat or muscle trimmed as needed. Longer swelling, but the most durable result and suited to thicker, puffier or older eyelids.
The surgeon chooses based on skin thickness, fat volume, eyelid strength and the crease height you want, not just preference. Our
double eyelid surgery guide covers the methods in more detail.
What happens at the consultation?
Expect the surgeon to examine how well each lid opens, measure the existing fold, and use a thin probe to simulate crease heights while you look in a mirror. Useful things to bring and ask:
- Photos of results you like, and an honest note that a very high or wide crease can look unnatural on some faces
- Your medical history, eye conditions, contact lens use and any previous eyelid procedures
- Who will perform the surgery, and whether that is the doctor you are speaking with
- What the quoted price includes (anesthesia, medication, stitch removal, revision policy) and whether 10% VAT is added
Some clinics in the Sinsa and Apgujeong area offer same-day surgery after consultation. Giving yourself at least one night to decide is sensible.
Day of surgery: what to expect
You will be asked to arrive without eye makeup or contact lenses. The surgeon marks the crease, then numbs the lids; many clinics add IV sedation. You are awake or lightly sedated and usually go home the same day with cold packs, antibiotic ointment and pain medication. Bring sunglasses and arrange to be accompanied back to your accommodation.
Recovery timeline, week by week
- Days 1-3: peak swelling and bruising. Keep your head raised, use cold compresses as instructed, and avoid bending or lifting.
- Days 5-7: stitches removed for incisional methods. Many people can go out with glasses at this point, though the fold looks too high and puffy.
- Weeks 2-3: bruising mostly gone, light eye makeup usually allowed after the surgeon checks healing. Switch from cold to warm compresses if advised.
- Months 1-3: swelling settles gradually; the crease lowers and softens. Incision lines may look pink.
- Months 3-6: the result is close to final and scars fade toward thin lines in the crease.
Non-incisional patients usually move through these stages faster, often looking presentable within a week.
How long should you stay in Seoul?
Seven to ten days covers the essentials: surgery, a check on day one or two, and stitch removal. If you can stay two weeks you will travel home looking less swollen and can have a second check. Flying a few days after eyelid surgery is generally acceptable, but confirm with your surgeon and keep the ointment and medication in your carry-on. Our
first visit guide explains practical planning for medical travel to Gangnam.
What are the risks?
Most recoveries are uneventful, but you should understand possible problems:
- Asymmetry between the two creases, often temporary while swelling differs
- A fold that is too high, too deep, or that fades (more likely with suture methods)
- Dry or gritty eyes, temporary difficulty closing the eyes fully
- Infection, bleeding or a hematoma, which needs prompt review
- Visible or thickened scars, especially with heavy skin removal
Revision eyelid surgery is possible but generally harder than the first operation, so getting the plan right at consultation matters more than chasing a low price.
How do you choose a safe clinic?
Look for a clinic registered with HIRA and a surgeon with plastic surgery or ophthalmic plastic surgery specialist certification. Ask for written aftercare instructions in English and a clear contact route after hours. Sinsa Station has a dense cluster of plastic surgery clinics; you can browse registered clinics by area in our
clinics directory.
Frequently asked questions
Is double eyelid surgery painful?
The injections are the most uncomfortable part. Afterward most people describe tightness and soreness that is managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief for a few days.
When can I wear contact lenses again?
Many surgeons ask you to wait one to two weeks, until stitches are out and the lids are less swollen. Follow your surgeon's specific advice.
Will the result be permanent?
Incisional results are generally long-lasting, though aging still affects the eyelid skin. Suture-based folds can loosen over the years and may need repeating.
Can I combine it with other eye procedures?
Yes. It is often combined with ptosis correction, epicanthoplasty or under-eye surgery, but combining increases swelling and recovery time, so allow a longer stay.
This article is general information and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. Last reviewed: October 2026.
