How to Choose Eyelid Crease Height in Korean Surgery
How to Choose Eyelid Crease Height in Korean Surgery
Choosing the right eyelid crease height is one of the most important decisions in double eyelid surgery. In Korea, surgeons place strong emphasis on natural balance, eye function, and long-term stability, rather than simply creating a high or dramatic crease.
A well-chosen crease height enhances the eyes subtly, while a poorly chosen one can lead to stiffness, asymmetry, or an unnatural appearance.
What Is Eyelid Crease Height?
Eyelid crease height refers to the vertical distance between the lash line and the eyelid fold when the eyes are open. It determines how visible and defined the eyelid crease appears.
Crease height directly affects:
- Eye openness
- Facial balance
- Whether results look natural or “overdone”
There is no universal ideal height—it must be customized.
Typical Crease Height Ranges in Korea (General Reference)
While exact measurements vary by individual, common ranges used in Korea include:
- Low crease: subtle, natural, close to monolid look
- Medium crease: balanced and most commonly chosen
- High crease: more defined, but higher risk if not suitable
Korean surgeons generally favor lower to medium crease heights for long-term natural results.
Key Factors That Determine the Right Crease Height
1. Eye Opening and Ptosis (Most Important)
If ptosis (eyelid drooping) is present:
- A higher crease alone will not fix eye opening
- Ptosis correction may be needed before choosing crease height
Choosing a high crease without addressing ptosis can cause:
- Heavy-looking eyelids
- Crease instability
- Tired or strained expression
2. Eyelid Skin Thickness and Fat
- Thick skin or more fat: lower crease is safer and more stable
- Thin skin: slightly higher crease may still look natural
High creases on thick eyelids often appear artificial or puffy over time.
3. Eye Shape and Facial Proportions
Crease height must match:
- Eye width and height
- Brow position
- Overall facial structure
In Korea, crease design focuses on facial harmony, not just eye size.
4. Incisional vs Non-Incisional Technique
- Non-incisional surgery: works best with lower, natural creases
- Incisional surgery: allows more flexibility, but still requires restraint
Higher creases demand stronger fixation and carry higher revision risk.
5. Lifestyle and Makeup Preferences
Patients who:
- Rarely wear heavy makeup
- Prefer a natural, everyday look
Often benefit from lower or medium creases.
High creases may require more makeup to look balanced in daily life.
6. Long-Term Aging Considerations
As the face ages:
- Eyelids naturally become heavier
- High creases may look exaggerated or hollow
Korean surgeons often design creases that will age gracefully, not just look good immediately after surgery.
Why “Bigger Eyes” ≠ Higher Crease
A common misconception is that a higher crease always makes eyes look bigger. In reality:
- Eye opening is controlled by muscle function, not crease height
- High creases without proper muscle support can make eyes look tired
True eye enlargement often requires ptosis correction, not a higher fold.
Common Mistakes in Choosing Crease Height
🚩 Letting trends dictate crease height
🚩 Copying another person’s crease
🚩 Choosing the highest option during consultation
🚩 Ignoring ptosis or eyelid heaviness
These mistakes are a common cause of revision surgery.
How Korean Surgeons Typically Decide
A proper consultation in Korea usually includes:
- Measuring eye opening (MRD1)
- Evaluating eyelid muscle strength
- Simulating multiple crease heights
- Discussing natural vs decorative outcomes
The final decision is made based on anatomy first, preference second.
Final Thoughts
Choosing eyelid crease height in Korean surgery is not about going higher or more dramatic—it’s about balance, function, and longevity. Lower to medium creases are often favored because they look natural, remain stable, and age well.
The safest and most satisfying results come from:
- Accurate diagnosis
- Conservative design
- Clear communication with the surgeon
A crease that suits your anatomy will always look better than one chosen purely by trend.




