2026-05-18
Buried Thread Removal for Double Eyelids: Methods, Myths, and Facts
This post explains the procedure for removing buried suture threads when patients experience pulling sensations or difficulty opening their eyes after double eyelid burial method surgery. The technique uses specialized surgical instruments to extract threads through existing small holes without additional incisions, typically completing within 10 minutes. We address common misconceptions with case examples, explaining that thread removal does not cause additional skin sagging and emphasizing the
Today's post discusses the methods for removing buried threads and the myths versus truths about this procedure.
The buried thread removal method involves extracting threads from the area where they fold during the original double eyelid burial procedure.
Our clinic uses specialized surgical instruments to remove threads through small holes without incisions.
Let me explain through a case example. This patient had surgery at another hospital one week ago.
The patient reports pulling sensations and difficulty opening their eyes.
Can you see the knot?
The thread is being removed through the existing hole. No incision is needed. Some patients ask if an incision over 1cm is necessary. Some surgeons claim this is required and that it's impossible through the existing hole.
Of course, a larger incision makes finding the thread easier, but isn't the reason you chose the burial method precisely to avoid incisions? Alternatively, if you prefer the open incision technique, you wouldn't need to struggle finding threads.
This shows how the eye appears after thread removal compared to before surgery.
The procedure typically finishes within 10 minutes. If the thread proves difficult to find, we don't force it or probe excessively. However, with the single-knot technique, we have never failed to locate the thread.
This is how the eye looks immediately after thread removal. Opening the eye is much more comfortable, and the overall appearance is significantly improved from the pre-procedure state.
Q) Does the skin sag more after removing buried threads?
A) No, it does not. When the eyelid is folded with the burial method, any sagging appears improved. When this fold disappears, it may look like sagging has returned, but this is not additional sagging—it's simply the original state becoming visible again.
Q) I heard it's better to have the threads removed at the same hospital where the surgery was done. Can I have it done elsewhere?
A) That's not necessarily true. By that logic, all subsequent procedures would need to be done at the original hospital. Double eyelid revision surgery requires specialized techniques unique to revision cases. It's important to have it performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive revision experience.
Q) Other hospitals said they couldn't remove it. Is it possible here?
A) Buried thread removal is one of the procedures I perform regularly. It typically takes 10-15 minutes, causes minimal tissue trauma, and is done without incision by creating small puncture holes. I've developed extensive expertise through years of trial and refinement.
Q) Will there be significant scarring from the holes after removal?
A) When removing buried threads, we use the existing holes from the original burial method surgery. The original burial method typically creates about 6 holes, though this varies by clinic—some use 5-10 holes.
When removing the threads, we create 3 or fewer holes. These are the same size as the original ones.
Interestingly, while patients often find the original burial method holes not very sensitive, some are more sensitive to the new puncture sites.
They are the same holes!!
Still, to minimize the appearance of any marks, we perform careful suturing.
In most cases, the threads are successfully removed.
I'm pleased that the procedure went well.
Please also check out other posts
https://blog.naver.com/medicdoctor/223454645816
https://blog.naver.com/medicdoctor/223889539549
https://blog.naver.com/medicdoctor/221788520525
https://blog.naver.com/medicdoctor/222003770118
https://blog.naver.com/medicdoctor/221909551920
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an incision to remove buried threads?
No, the procedure can be done without incisions. Our clinic uses specialized surgical instruments to remove threads through the small holes created during the original burial method surgery. Contrary to claims that over 1cm incisions are necessary, removal through existing holes is entirely feasible.
Will my skin sag more after thread removal?
No, additional sagging will not occur. When the eyelid is held folded with the burial method, any sagging appears improved. When this fold is released, it simply returns to its original appearance—the skin is not actually sagging further.
How long does buried thread removal take?
The procedure typically takes 10-15 minutes. Using specialized surgical tools, threads are removed through small holes without incisions, causing minimal tissue damage. With single-knot technique, we have successfully located threads in every case.
Do I need to have the threads removed at the same hospital?
Not necessarily. You don't need to return to the original hospital for all follow-up procedures. Double eyelid revision surgery requires specialized techniques, so it's important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with significant revision surgery experience and expertise.
Will there be much scarring from the removal holes?
Minimal scarring occurs. Thread removal uses the existing holes from the original burial method—typically 3 or fewer new holes are created, the same size as the originals. We use careful suturing to minimize any visible marks.
Will opening my eyes be easier after thread removal?
Yes, significantly easier. As shown in our case study, the patient experienced pulling and difficulty opening their eyes one week after the original surgery. Immediately after thread removal, eye opening became much more comfortable, with dramatic overall improvement compared to the pre-removal state.