Double Eyelid ➝ Monolid Surgery for Men in Korea

December 25, 2025

Double Eyelid ➝ Monolid Surgery for Men in Korea

While double eyelid surgery (creating an upper eyelid crease) is extremely common in Korea, the reverse — removing an existing double eyelid crease to create a monolid — is much rarer. For men who prefer a natural, subtle, monolid appearance (no visible fold when eyes are open), it can be done, but it requires a specialized, customized approach and a surgeon experienced with this niche request.

Here’s what foreign patients should know about this procedure in Korea.

What “Double Eyelid → Monolid” Surgery Really Means

This surgery is usually called:

  • Crease release
  • Monolid conversion
  • Double-to-single eyelid revision

Rather than adding an eyelid crease, the surgeon releases or reduces the previous crease fixation so the skin lies flat when the eyes are open — creating a smoother, monolid look.

This is a revision-style procedure, not a standard blepharoplasty.

Why Men Might Want This

Men often choose a monolid or flatter eyelid curve because they want:

  • A natural, masculine eye shape
  • Eyes that don’t look “operated on”
  • A softer, simpler eyelid without fold definition
  • Better harmony with overall facial features
  • A look that suits Asian or East Asian heritage

This is especially common among men who feel:

  • Their previous double eyelids look too high
  • Crease looks feminine
  • Crease is visible even when eyes are relaxed
  • Crease feels unnatural in motion

How the Procedure Is Done

Creating a monolid from a double eyelid involves:

  1. Release of the original crease fixation — removing or loosening the scar/fixation that holds the fold.
  2. Careful redraping of the skin — so it lies flat with minimal tension.
  3. Scar remodeling and soft tissue smoothing — to prevent ridge lines or irregular contour.
  4. Fine tissue balancing — adjusting muscle and fat if needed for a smooth result.

This is different from removing skin, which can lead to visible scars or unnatural tension on the lids. Korean surgeons emphasize minimal, hidden scarring and natural eyelid movement.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

This surgery may be suitable for men who:
βœ” Previously had double eyelid surgery and want a monolid
βœ” Feel their crease looks too feminine or artificial
βœ” Have adequate skin elasticity
βœ” Do not have significant eyelid sagging or reading-related ptosis
βœ” Prefer a naturally flat eyelid look

Not everyone is a candidate.
Men with extremely thin skin, scar contracture, or very recessed anatomy might not achieve a true monolid appearance without irregularities.

Risks and Considerations

Because this is a removal or reduction of an existing surgical result, risks include:

  • Visible creasing or ridge ad residual scar
  • Uneven lid contour if tissue healing is irregular
  • Transient or permanent asymmetry
  • Thinner appearing eyelids if too much tissue is released

These risks are why Korean surgeons approach this conservatively and often stage the revision.

Recovery Expectations

Recovery after a crease release is similar to revision eyelid surgery:

  • Swelling & tightness: ~1–2 weeks
  • Bruising (if present): 1–2 weeks
  • Early socially presentable stage: ~7–10 days
  • Final contour refinement: 2–3 months

Swelling and eyelid movement take time to settle, and the monolid look often refines over several weeks.

How Korea Approaches This Niche Surgery

Korean eye surgeons are known for:

✨ Conservative scar release to avoid hollowing
✨ Anatomy-based planning rather than “undoing” blindly
✨ Balance between upper eyelid skin and brow dynamics
✨ Preserving natural blink and motion
✨ Communicating long-term expectations clearly

Rather than giving an “identity-erasing” result, surgeons aim for a monolid that still looks natural with expression and emotion — especially important for men.

Consultation Tips

When consulting in Korea:

βœ” Bring clear photos of your current eyelids and the look you want
βœ” Explain whether you want a complete monolid or a softer, low fold
βœ” Ask how they handle scar tissue and crease release
βœ” Clarify whether any fat or muscle adjustment is included
βœ” Discuss how this will look in open vs closed eyes
βœ” Ask for before/after examples of similar male cases

This surgery is highly individualized, so communication about goals and limitations is essential.

Cost Range (Approximate)

Because this is a revision or specialized procedure, costs are generally higher than standard double eyelid creation:

  • Revision monolid conversion: ~β‚©2,500,000 – β‚©6,000,000+ KRW (~$1,900–$4,400+ USD) depending on complexity and surgeon reputation
  • Prices vary significantly based on tissue condition, scar complexity, and additional adjustments

Getting a personalized quote based on photos is critical.

Final Thoughts

Converting double eyelids to a monolid for men in Korea is possible—but it’s a revision-focused, precision procedure that must be planned carefully. Unlike creating a crease, this surgery is about releasing and reorganizing tissue to achieve a smooth, flat, natural eyelid look that fits masculine facial features and preserves soft motion.

The most successful outcomes come from:
βœ… An experienced revision surgeon
βœ… Clear communication about expectations
βœ… Conservative, anatomy-based planning
βœ… Patience through recovery and refinement

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