Double eyelid surgery is another procedure that has seen tremendous technological advancements within the last two to three decades. The most common procedure performed by plastic surgeons in South Korea is double eyelid surgery. It has the ability to create the correct crease in patients' skin, giving them a lot more attractive and lively appearance.

Double eyelid surgery was considered before as a procedure that simply creates a crease on the eyelid. However, thanks to the creative research of some of South Korea's top plastic surgeons, double eyelid surgery is now a highly sophisticated procedure. These days, double eyelid surgery entails much more than just the development of a crease, for example, the size and shape of the eyes may be changed to better balance the patient's face overall. After studying and practicing this new and improved form of double eyelid surgery for a long time, Korean surgeons tailor their procedures to each patient's facial features.

What is a Double Eyelid Surgery?

People of East Asian descent frequently have single eyelids. Lack of a supratarsal crease and upper eyelid results in a "monolid" appearance. People of East Asian origin frequently undergo Asian eyelids, Asian blepharoplasty, or double eyelid surgery since more than 50% of them were born without the supratarsal fold. It is a very complex process that calls for expertise. A crease is created in the upper eyelid during double eyelid surgery, to widen and define the eyes. Although cosmetic surgery for enhancing one's look has a long history in many cultures, the development and spread of double eyelid surgery in Korea is rather unique.

Double eyelids: when the eyes are open, double eyelids have a noticeable crease on the upper lid and little to no epicanthic fold. People of non-Asian descent are more likely to have these eyelids.

Monollids (single lids): The epicanthic fold, found on monolid or single eyelids, covers the lower portion of the lid and reaches the inner corner of the eye. Because of this, it seems to have a monolid. People of East Asian descent are most likely to have monolids.

Men and women from a variety of backgrounds are considering double eyelid surgery, but because Asians are more likely to have a monolid, this procedure has gained special traction with this population. Because of this trait, Asian eyelid folds may be less pronounced than those of other racial groups. Making the decision to have such surgery done is quite personal, especially since one's eyes reflect more than just their face, they are a symbol of their culture and ethnicity. While some Asians are eager to change their monolid, others worry that doing so will unduly "Westernize" their appearance. Double eyelid surgery is intended that patients not only avoid a look that suggests surgical change but also maintain their natural eye shape and ethnicity.

In Korean culture, the desire for larger, more pronounced eyes has a long history. Facial features such as a bright complexion, a relatively small nose, and double eyelashes are frequently associated with the ideal of beauty in Korea as they are thought to reflect youth and attractiveness. It is significant to remember that there are a variety of cultural, societal, and individual motivations for double eyelid surgery.

The practice of double eyelid surgery originated during the Korean War. Contrary to popular belief, interracial unions were prohibited in some US states until the early 1960s, despite the War Brides Act of 1945 allowing American armies stationed abroad to bring brides of different races. Many Korean women at that time altered their eyes to appear more Americanized in order to marry American servicemen in the 1950s.

As Korea underwent rapid modernization and Westernization, influenced by the global popularity of American media, the perception of beauty started to shift. With the rise of cosmetic surgery in Korea, double eyelid surgery emerged as a sought-after procedure, particularly among young women, who aspired to achieve the Westernized beauty standards that were gaining prominence.

As the procedure gained popularity, it also became more accessible and affordable, thanks to advancements in surgical techniques and medical technology. This widespread acceptance and availability further propelled the growth of the industry, and cosmetic surgery clinics began to flourish across the country.

As Korea's reputation as a global hub for cosmetic surgery grew, so did the demand for more advanced techniques and refined results. Surgeons began offering various methods of double eyelid surgery, including non-incisional techniques that involved the use of sutures or laser treatments, alongside traditional incisional methods. These advancements allowed for more customization and catered to individual preferences, resulting in natural-looking outcomes.

The prevalence of double eyelid surgery in Korean society has undoubtedly left a lasting impact. While the procedure has helped many individuals achieve the desired aesthetic appearance and bolstered their self-esteem, it has also sparked debates regarding beauty standards, cultural assimilation, and the pressures to conform to a particular ideal.

Critics argue that the increasing popularity of double eyelid surgery perpetuates unrealistic beauty standards, creates a homogenized appearance, and reinforces Eurocentric ideals of beauty. Others counter that individuals should have the freedom to make choices about their own bodies and that cosmetic surgery is a personal decision. As with any form of cosmetic surgery, it is crucial to foster a nuanced understanding that respects individual choice

Potential Complications and Risks After Double Eyelid Surgery

There are risks associated with any surgical procedure, and double eyelid surgery is no exception. Before having double eyelid surgery, you should be aware of the following possible risks and complications:

- An unevenness in the fold

- Bleeding following the surgery, which might range from a small amount behind the eye that bruises to a large amount of bleeding

- Bleeding in the orbit of the eye, putting strain on the optic nerve and potentially causing a retrobulbar hematoma.

- Sagging of the lower eyelid

- Overly elevated crease

- A lid problem: folding away

- Anesthesia-related allergy Infection

- Either short-term or long-term eyesight changes

Therefore, before consenting to the procedure, make sure you and your surgeon have a discussion about the potential for one or more of these risks.

Recovery Period After Double Eyelid Surgery

Following "Double Eyelid" Surgery, discomfort is typically minimal and may be managed with the painkillers your surgeon will provide.

For the first 24 hours, take it easy at home. For the first two weeks following surgery, take it easy and steer clear of any physically demanding activities or exercise.

Following eyelid surgery, bruising and swelling are typical and expected. The day following surgery, it is more noticeable, but over the following two weeks, it goes away.

To keep your head raised when you sleep, use two pillows at least. This will assist in lowering bruises.

To minimize swelling, use cold compresses as frequently as you can during the first 48 hours; it's advised to apply them for 10 minutes at a time.

Usually, 14 days to one month is enough time to wear contact lenses, but only if they are comfortable. For any suture removal, come back to the clinic seven days later.

Cosmetics: 48 hours following the removal of any sutures, you can start applying cosmetics again.

FAQ About Double Eyelid Surgery in Korea

What are the types of double eyelids?

in-fold (inline): for more natural results

Out-fold (outline): recommended mainly for those who have a high nasal bridge, and large eyes.

In-Out-Fold (In-Outline)

What are the main differences between the types of double eyelid procedures?

Incisional double eyelid surgery: intends to produce double eyelids and an incision is created. This is the most efficient way to permanently create eyelids, and it works with any type of eyelid.

Partial incision double eyelid surgery: tiny incisions are done in the exact spot where your eyelid fold naturally occurs. Ideal for people whose eyelids aren't overly plump. or if scars genuinely bother you in a very special way.

Non-incisional double eyelid surgery: instead of making incisions, tiny, invisible sutures are knotted along the natural line of your eyelid fold. Fit only for people with thin eyelids.

How long should it be before having double eyelid surgery, after laser eye surgery, or vice versa?

Between procedures, you should give yourself at least six months. It is advised to wait until after you have fully healed from whichever procedure you chose to have done before getting the other, to prevent affecting the outcome of your LASIK or double eyelid surgery.

When is it possible to have double eyelid surgery for revision?

You should wait until your wounds from the prior surgery have fully healed before scheduling a revision. Revision surgery can usually be performed six months after the initial double eyelid surgery if you are unhappy with the outcome and would like a change.

After double eyelid surgery, when can I start wearing makeup?

After having double eyelid surgery, wait at least two to three weeks before wearing any eye makeup. In fact, it's best to avoid wearing eye makeup until after your incisions have fully healed. In addition to raising the risk of infection and causing the incisions to reopen and not heal properly, touching or scratching the region close to the incisions can also raise this risk.

Related readings

Everything You Need to Know About Upper Blepharoplasty in Korea

Everything You Need to Know About Lower Blepharoplasty in Korea

What Are The Differences Between Eyebags and Dark Circles - How To Get Rid Of Them?

Asymmetrical Eyes and How to Correct It