2026-07-21
Monomid Eyelid Surgery: Consider the Disadvantages More Than the Advantages
Monomid eyelid surgery, a popular trend, aims to enhance eye exposure without a double eyelid crease. While it offers a natural look, it's not suitable for everyone and requires careful consideration of potential downsides like unnatural appearance, asymmetry, and complications.

Monomid Eyelid Surgery: Consider the Disadvantages More Than the Advantages

Hello,
This is Dr. J from Cheongdam SNU Plastic Surgery Clinic.
Among recent eye surgery trends,
monomid eyelid surgery
is gaining attention.
Unlike traditional double eyelid surgery,
it aims to increase pupil exposure without a double eyelid crease,
giving a natural impression.
However, it is not suitable for everyone
and requires careful consideration.
#1. What is Monomid Eyelid Surgery?

Monomid eyelid surgery involves
excising a small amount of sagging skin directly above the eyelashes,
reducing the thin, elastic skin above the eyelashes, known as ‘zone 1’,
to increase pupil exposure,
and, if necessary, performing levator aponeurosis plication
concurrently.
This surgery makes the eyes appear larger and clearer
even without a double eyelid crease.
✅ Monomid eyelid surgery is
suitable for:
- Individuals with good eyelid opening strength
- Individuals with mild pseudoptosis due to slightly loose skin
- Individuals desiring a natural monomid effect
- Individuals without eyebrow ptosis
(i.e., preferably younger individuals)
#2. Key Disadvantages of Monomid Eyelid Surgery

⚠️ Destruction of natural eyelid structure
If the existing thin and soft
‘zone 1’ skin is removed,
the thicker skin of the upper eyelid may descend directly,
making the eyelid shape appear duller
and unnatural.
⚠️ Immediate exposure of asymmetry
Double eyelid surgery can partially compensate for asymmetry
through the double eyelid crease.
However, monomid surgery
lacks this compensatory effect,
posing a risk that pre-existing eye asymmetry
will be fully exposed.
⚠️ Potential for side effects
- Lagophthalmos (inability to close the eyes completely)
- Sensation of excessive tightness
- Minimal surgical effect
🌟 Comparison of Monomid Surgery / Traditional Double Eyelid Surgery

#3. Double Eyelid Surgery Suitable for Koreans

The most natural double eyelid height
for Koreans (including natural double eyelids) is
approximately 8mm from the eyelashes.
This height harmonizes with most Korean facial structures
and offers the following advantages:
✅ Natural appearance
An 8mm double eyelid crease can create
an in-out line or semi-out line effect
that appropriately blends Eastern and Western charm.
✅ Asymmetry correction possible
Muscle control and asymmetry compensation through the double eyelid crease
can create a more natural eye shape.
✅ Easy combination with additional cosmetic procedures
After creating a basic double eyelid crease,
additional procedures such as epicanthoplasty, lateral canthoplasty, or ptosis correction
can be combined as needed,
leading to more satisfying results.
#4. Cases Where Monomid Surgery is Suitable
Every surgical method has its
advantages and disadvantages.
Monomid surgery is relatively
suitable in the following cases:
✔️ Individuals with sufficiently good eyelid opening strength
✔️ Individuals with thin skin and not much fat
✔️ Individuals with existing hidden double eyelids (less than 5-6mm)
✔️ Individuals desiring an extremely natural effect
#5. What to Check Before Surgery
Regardless of which surgery you are considering,
please be sure to check the following:
1. Consultation with a specialist
Consult with a specialist about the method suitable for your eye condition.
2. Check the clinic's experience
Verify the clinic's experience and expertise
in the specific procedure.
3. Information on side effects
Familiarize yourself with potential side effects and how to address them.
📍 Precautions Before and After Eye Surgery

✨ Advice for natural beauty
☑ Rather than unconditionally opting for monomid correction,
choose a method that suits
your eye condition.
☑ Also consider hidden double eyelids (5-6mm) or
in-line double eyelids.
☑ Review various options through consultation
with a specialist.
The eyes are a crucial part that determines the core of one's facial impression,
and monomid eyelid surgery
is not a one-size-fits-all solution
suitable for everyone,
thus requiring careful decision-making.
Especially for Koreans, the traditional method of creating a double eyelid crease
at an 8mm height from the eyelashes
provides more natural results in most cases.
Rather than being swayed by trends,
please consult sufficiently with a specialist about the method suitable for your eye condition and face shape,
and make a careful decision.
If you need more information and consultation,
we recommend consulting a specialized plastic surgery clinic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of surgery is non-double eyelid ptosis correction?
Non-double eyelid ptosis correction is a method that involves excising the sagging skin directly above the eyelashes and increasing the exposure rate of the pupil to make the eyes larger and clearer without a double eyelid line. If necessary, levator palpebrae superioris plication may also be performed.
In what cases is non-double eyelid ptosis correction suitable?
Yes, it may be suitable for individuals with good eye-opening strength and mild skin laxity (pseudoptosis), those who desire a natural non-double eyelid effect, and younger individuals without eyebrow drooping.
What are the main disadvantages of non-double eyelid ptosis correction?
The main disadvantages include the destruction of the natural eyelid structure, which can make the eyelid shape appear dull, and the risk of the original eye asymmetry being exposed due to the absence of a double eyelid crease.
What side effects can occur after non-double eyelid ptosis correction?
Yes, side effects such as lagophthalmos (inability to fully close the eyes), an overly pulled sensation, or minimal surgical effect may occur after surgery, so caution is advised.
What is the most natural double eyelid height for Koreans?
The most natural double eyelid height for Koreans is approximately 8mm from the eyelashes. This height harmonizes with most Korean facial structures and can create a natural in-out line or semi-out line effect.
What should I definitely check before eye surgery?
Yes, before surgery, you must have a thorough consultation with a specialist to find a method suitable for your eye condition, and definitely check the hospital's experience and know-how, as well as possible side effects and how to deal with them.