Asian Eyelid Surgery

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, is particularly popular among Asian patients who seek out this procedure to enhance the appearance of their eyes. Also known as double eyelid surgery, Asian blepharoplasty is performed in order to create a crease in the upper eyelid. In doing so, the surgeon alters the “single fold eyelid” common among people of Asian descent into the more open, “double eyelid” appearance that is more typical in Caucasians. Larger and more open eyes are seen as a sign of vitality and youth, making this a popular procedure in many Asian communities.

Are you a good candidate?

Many Asians who seek blepharoplasty surgery do so because they feel their single-fold eyelids make their eyes appear small and tired. After Asian blepharoplasty, they find that their eyes appear larger, with eyelids that do not appear as heavy. Good candidates for this procedure are Asians with thin skin and eyebrows that are not too low or too heavy. This procedure can be performed on adults of any age, although most patients are in their teens, 20s, or 30s. There are certain medical conditions, particularly those affecting the eyes or the circulatory system, that may prevent potential candidates from undergoing eyelid surgery.

Procedure

Surgeons perform Asian eyelid surgery by removing excess skin from the eyelids and by creating a crease in the upper eyelid. The surgeon is able to remove skin, fat, and a small amount of muscle tissue through incisions made in the natural creases of the eyelid or in the back side of the eyelids, a process which avoids external incisions. There are several surgical techniques used to create the additional eyelid crease, with the most popular method known as the double sutures and twisting method, or DST. DST procedures involve creating a fold by pinching the underside of the eyelid skin and suturing it in place. During Asian eyelid surgery, it is also common for the surgeon to trim the web of skin overlapping the corner of the eye. Known as the epicanthal fold, this tends to be more prominent in patients of Asian descent, who seek to have its appearance softened through surgery. Following this surgical work, the incision is closed with sutures. Often, the sutures are what creates the intentional crease in the eyelid.

Complications & Risks

While eyelid surgery is considered to be a less invasive procedure than many other cosmetic surgery types, it is not without risk. The most common complication is that the surgically-created fold fails, returning the eyelid back to its original position. Other risks include asymmetry and scarring. Temporary complications that may occur include decreased eyelid sensitivity, difficulty completely shutting the eyelids, increased sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.

Recovery Time

After eyelid surgery, the eyelids will be supported with surgical tape. During the recovery time, it is common for the eyes to be overly light sensitive, watery, or dry. You may experience blurred or double vision or other vision problems, which should correct themselves within a week. Most patients are able to return to their normal activity level, including work and other obligations, within a week. For several weeks after surgery, patients must keep their head and neck elevated to promote healing, and avoid any activities that may irritate or increase blood flow to the eyes.