Double eyelid or epicanthoplasty surgery has become a common choice, but facing scars along the line during the recovery process can be unsettling for anyone. The first questions asked by those visiting the clinic are often similar: Should this scar be refined with a laser, or should I undergo revision surgery? To get straight to the point, the answer varies depending on the scar's shape and nature, and it's difficult to definitively say that one method is always better than the other.
The eyes are a feature that greatly influences one's impression, so even small scars can be bothersome. Scars come in various forms, such as long linear scars, red raised scars, or depressed scars, each requiring a tailored approach. Today, we'll address frequently asked questions about scars remaining after eye surgery, which fall under cosmetic surgery scars.
Immediately After Surgery: How to Start Scar Management
After eye surgery, an ointment that keeps the wound moist can aid in recovery. While silicone-based ointments are available for scar management, applying them near the eyes, such as on double eyelid or epicanthoplasty areas, can be tricky.
In such cases, it's safer to use an antibiotic ointment or petroleum jelly that can be applied to the eyes. Rather than self-diagnosing and applying strong products, we recommend consulting with a medical professional to determine which ointment is suitable for your wound.
When is the Best Time to Start Scar Treatment?
It is reported that the period immediately after the wound has healed from double eyelid surgery scars is advantageous in terms of treatment results. If you wish to prevent scars, you can start treatment 1-2 weeks after the eye surgery stitches are removed.
Even if you miss the optimal timing, it's not too late for scar treatment. You can receive treatment whenever you wish, even after white scars have formed.
There's no need to worry even if the time has passed and white scars remain. Scars that have aged can also be approached step-by-step according to their condition.
Laser vs. Revision Surgery: What to Choose?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions, but it's difficult to definitively say whether laser or surgery is better. This is because there are cases where laser is suitable and cases where revision surgery is suitable, depending on the shape and nature of the scar.
In the clinic, even with the same double eyelid scar, the patterns vary greatly from person to person. The general criteria are summarized in the table below:
| Scar Pattern | Preferred Approach |
|---|---|
| Line is completely crooked or asymmetrical | Revision Surgery |
| Scar is depressed or line appears thick | Laser |
| Prone to keloids | Laser First |
If the line is completely misaligned or asymmetrical, surgical correction is appropriate. On the other hand, if the scar is depressed, the line appears too thick, or it's raised, laser treatment is often effective in refining the scar. Additionally, if you are prone to keloid scars, it is advisable to consider laser treatment over surgery first.
For questions, inquire via chat consultation for eye surgery scar treatment
Eye Surgery Scars: Treatment Varies by Shape
Eye surgery scars appear in various forms. It's common to have parallel line-shaped scars along the double eyelid line. If the line appears too prominent, laser treatment can be used to lighten its color.
If the scar is depressed, a laser may be used to help fill in the depressed area. In cases where Triamcinolone Scar Injection is needed due to a constitutional tendency for the area to thicken and redden (keloid scars), injection therapy may be combined to soften the scar.
If a part of the scar becomes thick, commonly referred to as "double eyelid scar tissue," that area alone can be improved with laser or injections. If the scar area has a dark pigmentation, approaches with whitening lasers may also be helpful.
We've compiled items you can check yourself for scar management:
- Does the scar appear as a prominent parallel line?
- Is it depressed, creating a shadow?
- Is it red or thickly swollen?
- Is the color brown or dark reddish?
- Is the height or shape of the lines asymmetrical?
When Can Daily Life Be Resumed After Treatment?
The area around the eyes recovers quickly, so daily activities like washing your face or showering are generally possible immediately after treatment. However, fine exfoliation may occur for about 4-5 days, so it's best not to forcibly remove it and let it fall off naturally. Recovery speed and scar response may vary from person to person.
The Key is an Approach Tailored to the Scar Type
Many people are concerned about scars left after double eyelid surgery, epicanthoplasty, or lateral canthoplasty, which they underwent to enhance their appearance. The key is to first understand the scar's shape and nature. Even in the same area, Surgical Scar Revision may be suitable, or laser treatment may be appropriate, depending on whether it's depressed, asymmetrical, or has a keloid tendency.
Inquire via chat consultation for eye surgery scar treatment
Dr. Sang-Joo Lee · Board-Certified Dermatologist As the chief director of Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon, Dr. Lee has long specialized in pigment and scar treatment, serving as the president of the Korean Dermatological Association in 2026 and an adjunct professor at the Department of Dermatology, Yonsei University College of Medicine. View Dr. Sang-Joo Lee's Profile First Published 2024-04-25 · Last Reviewed July 23, 2026
This article is for general informational purposes only. Scar patterns and recovery responses may vary individually, and accurate diagnosis and treatment plans should be determined through consultation with medical professionals.