Which is better for double eyelid surgery: suture technique or incisional technique?
Dec 23, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Incisional double eyelid surgery takes longer—approximately 1–2 hours—and has a slower recovery: swelling typically subsides after about two weeks, full recovery takes about one month, and sutures are removed 4–7 days postoperatively. In contrast, suture-based (non-incisional) double eyelid surgery is much quicker—about 30 minutes—and offers faster recovery: swelling usually resolves within approximately one week, and only three tiny needle puncture sites remain at the surgical site, eliminating the need for suture removal.
Suture-based double eyelid surgery and incisional double eyelid surgery are both common cosmetic procedures for creating double eyelids. As to which method is “better,” it’s important to recognize that each has its own advantages and disadvantages. From the perspective of surgical duration and recovery time alone, suture-based surgery tends to be more favorable. However, if long-term durability of results is the primary concern, incisional surgery generally offers longer-lasting outcomes. Let’s explore these aspects in detail.
Which is better: suture-based or incisional double eyelid surgery?
Surgical duration and recovery: Incisional double eyelid surgery typically takes 1–2 hours and involves a longer recovery period—swelling usually subsides after about two weeks, with full recovery taking approximately one month; sutures are removed 4–7 days postoperatively. In contrast, suture-based surgery is much quicker (about 30 minutes), with faster recovery—swelling generally resolves within one week, and only three tiny needle puncture sites remain, requiring no suture removal.
Postoperative results: Incisional surgery yields long-lasting results, but the surgical wound requires an initial period of swelling and a relatively prolonged recovery phase. Swelling may be more pronounced, and if the procedure fails, correction is challenging—and restoration of the original eyelid appearance is often impossible. Suture-based surgery leaves no visible scars and causes minimal swelling; however, results are not permanent. If the sutures loosen or dislodge, the double eyelid crease gradually fades. Many patients revert to their preoperative appearance after some time, although this limitation can be largely overcome by an experienced, skilled surgeon.
Surgical technique: Incisional double eyelid surgery involves making a precise incision along the intended eyelid crease, excising a small strip of excess skin and surplus orbital fat, then anchoring the upper eyelid skin to the tarsal plate or levator aponeurosis using sutures. This effectively creates a stable, anatomically anchored fold. Suture-based surgery, by contrast, uses non-absorbable surgical sutures to connect the eyelid skin to either the levator muscle or tarsal plate. The suture is passed from the skin surface into the conjunctiva and back out through the skin at predetermined points along the desired crease line, forming knots that are buried beneath the skin—typically three such sutures are placed.
When considering double eyelid surgery, it is essential first to assess your individual physical constitution and anatomical suitability. Although it is a relatively minor procedure, thorough preoperative consultation with a qualified physician—and careful evaluation of all options—is crucial before deciding on the most appropriate technique. Equally important is diligent postoperative care, which significantly contributes to successful outcomes.
We hope the above information is helpful to you. Wishing you good health and happiness!
