Suture or Incision? Which Double-Eyelid Design Looks Best? Understanding the Differences Between In-Out and In-Line Creases, Including the Semi-Out Line

Suture or Incision? Which Double-Eyelid Design Looks Best? Understanding the Differences Between In-Out and In-Line Creases, Including the Semi-Out Line

When researching double-eyelid surgery, you come across a variety of terms. Many people look into topics such as the difference between in-line and in-out creases, who an out-line double-eyelid design suits, and how the suture and incision methods differ. Recently, there has also been steadily growing interest in the semi-out line, often referred to as the double-eyelid crease seen on celebrities. Everyone has a preferred crease style, and the design that suits a person can vary depending on their individual eye shape. Today, we will review the basics of double-eyelid crease types and surgical methods, as well as what may be helpful to confirm during a consultation.

Why Do Double-Eyelid Creases Look Different from Person to Person?

A double-eyelid crease is not simply the creation of a single line; the design process must take the eye’s structure and overall harmony into account. Various factors affect the appearance, including each person’s facial proportions, eye length, eyelid skin thickness, amount of fat, and the distance between the eyebrows and eyes. For example, even creases of the same width can create different impressions depending on whether the skin is thin or thick. The starting and ending points of the crease can also appear different depending on the strength used to open the eyes and the shape of the inner corners. In particular, crease designs are categorized according to the starting point, and the look that suits each person can vary. For this reason, it is generally advisable to have a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

What Is the Difference Between In-Line and In-Out Creases?

Many people are curious about the difference between in-out and in-line creases. An in-line crease generally refers to a shape in which the double-eyelid crease begins on the inner side of the inner corner of the eye. Because it often connects naturally with the existing eye shape, it is a design that attracts people who want a defined yet soft appearance.

An in-out crease refers to a shape in which the front portion begins at the peak of the tear duct and connects naturally, while the crease becomes slightly more visible toward the outer side. It is often described as having an appearance somewhere between an in-line and an out-line crease. This type of crease is frequently discussed during consultations when both a natural impression and defined-looking eyes are being considered. However, there is no absolute standard distinguishing in-line and in-out creases, and the way they appear can vary depending on an individual’s eye structure.

What Are the Characteristics of Out-Line Double-Eyelid Surgery?

An out-line double-eyelid crease generally refers to a shape in which the crease is set apart and rises from the inner corner, beginning farther toward the outer side. Because the crease often appears relatively distinct, some people associate it with a more open and glamorous impression.

However, the same shape is not expressed in every eye. The starting position of the crease may vary depending on the development of the epicanthal fold and the characteristics of the skin. In some cases, the overall balance of the eye area is also considered in order to achieve the desired design.

These days, as there is a tendency to prefer natural designs that harmonize with the face rather than the wide creases favored in the past, many people inquire about in-out or semi-out creases instead of out-line creases.

Why Is the Semi-Out Line Attracting Interest?

You may have seen references to celebrities with semi-out creases. This style is known for being both natural and glamorous. It is often mentioned when discussing the eye shapes of famous girl-group members and other idols. As the name suggests, the semi-out line is often described as a design with characteristics somewhere between an in-out and an out-line crease. The inner portion is set apart like an out-line crease, but it connects naturally from a relatively low position, while the crease may appear somewhat more defined in the middle and toward the outer side of the eye. Of course, celebrity photos and images may look different from reality depending on the shooting angle, makeup, and lighting. Therefore, rather than deciding on a design based only on a particular photo, it is important to consider whether the shape is suitable for your own eye structure.

What Is the Difference Between the Suture and Incision Methods for Double-Eyelid Surgery?

Double-eyelid surgery is often broadly explained as either the suture method or the incision method. The suture method is known as a technique that forms the crease using sutures through tiny openings without making a large incision in the skin. It may be considered depending on the condition of the skin and the characteristics of the eyelids, but whether it is appropriate is determined after examining the individual’s eyes.

The incision method forms the crease by making an incision within the necessary area and organizing the tissue. It may be considered after taking various factors into account, such as thick eyelid skin, a larger amount of fat, or the degree of skin laxity.

For this reason, people planning surgery may look into both their desired crease and surgical method, such as an in-out crease with the suture method or an in-out crease with the incision method. However, the crease design and surgical method are separate considerations, so the applicable method may vary depending on the condition of each person’s eyes.

Previous image Next image

Which Method Can Be Considered Better?

Double-eyelid surgery is often discussed in terms of the advantages and disadvantages of the suture and incision methods. However, it is difficult to generalize that the suture method is always natural and the incision method is always more defined. This is because the surgical method is determined by considering various factors together, including not only the desired design but also skin thickness, the amount of fat, the existing eye shape, and the functional condition of the eyelids. Therefore, the important point is to find a design that suits your facial and eye proportions rather than simply following a popular crease style. Even with the same in-out crease, the impression can vary depending on its width and starting point, and the appearance of a semi-out crease can also differ from person to person.

What May Be Helpful to Confirm Before a Consultation

What should you consider when preparing for a consultation? If you are making plans, one option is to prepare photos of eye shapes you generally like as reference materials. However, these should be used to communicate the image you want. Rather than expecting the exact same result, it may be helpful to receive a thorough explanation from a board-certified plastic surgeon about which designs are possible for your own eye characteristics.

It can also be helpful to discuss factors such as the degree of eyelid drooping, your usual eye-opening habits, whether you wear contact lenses, and any previous eye surgeries during the consultation. This can help you receive an explanation that takes your individual characteristics into account.

Conclusion

As we have discussed, beyond the surgical method, it is important to plan the design of double-eyelid crease types—including in-line, in-out, out-line, and semi-out creases—while considering the structure of the eyes and the balance of the face as a whole. For both the suture and incision methods, it is necessary to understand their respective characteristics and thoroughly assess the condition of the individual’s eyes. The method and design suitable for you should be evaluated comprehensively through a consultation. Considering an approach that harmonizes with your own eye shape based on sufficient information can be the first step toward a satisfactory result, so we recommend keeping this in mind.

This content was prepared in compliance with the Medical Service Act and other relevant laws to provide general medical information. The appropriate treatment and surgical method may vary depending on an individual’s health condition and eye structure. For detailed information, please confirm the relevant matters through examination and consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.