Asian Eyelid Surgery

The first reported Asian double-eyelid operation was performed in Japan in 1896. This operation was first reported in the western literature in the 1950’s. Since then, the technique has been refined and there are multiple options available to a patient interested in the Asian double eyelid operation. Approximately 40-60% of Asians have a natural fold and a double eyelid.

Why Have an Asian Eyelid Operation

Asian people often find a double eyelid more attractive. The main benefit is that the double eyelid operation makes the eyes appear more open and alert. The eyes also appear less tired. A “single fold” eyelid often has a concealed crease and the underlying tissue gives a more “puffy” appearance. A double eyelid can also make applying eye make-up easier and can enhance the appearance of the upper face.

About the Asian Double Eyelid Operation

Many Asians lack an eyelid crease because of differences in the anatomy between an Asian eyelid compared to a Western eyelid. In Western eyelids, the union between the muscle opening the eyelid and the structure of the eyelid is higher, allowing for the formation of a crease. In addition, in Western eyelids, there are microscopic fibers connecting this junction to the eyelid skin allowing for the formation of a crease. In Asian eyelids, the union between the muscle and the structure of the eyelid is lower. There is also extra fat or puffiness in the eyelid. These factors work to prevent the formation of a well defined crease in the Asian eyelid.

Asian double eyelid surgery addresses these issues by adjusting the anatomy to create a natural appearing crease. Also, any extra fat or puffiness is removed to improve the definition of the eyelid crease. The incisions for the Asian eyelid operation are very similar to traditional eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) operations. In select patients, the double eyelid operation can be performed using sutures only. In these cases, the eyelid crease can be created using three or four separate sutures without a traditional incision. However, not every patient is a candidate for a “suture only” type of operation.

The Consult

A consultation for an Asian eyelid operation will take approximately 45 minutes. During this time, Dr. Liu will take a thorough medical history, help you with the decision making process, and answer all of your questions. Dr. Liu will evaluate and explain the different types of upper eyelids and help you decide on the appearance that best fits your face. The consultation will identify and classify different aspects of the Asian eyelid crease:

taper crease versus parallel crease
amount of pre-tarsal show (amount of eyelid showing)
evaluation of brow position
determination of excess soft tissue(amount of fat removal)
epicanthal fold (if any)

Before & After

Pre-Operative

Approximately 2 weeks prior to surgery, you will have a pre-operative appointment. At this time, you will sign the surgical consent, have photos taken, and receive an information packet. The pre-operative packet includes detailed instructions for before and after surgery. It is important to avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other blood thinning medications for at least two weeks before surgery. If you are having your operation with local anesthesia and sedation, do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the evening prior to surgery. If you are only having local anesthesia, you may eat a light breakfast.

About the Operation

The Asian double eyelid operation takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes to perform. This operation can be safely performed in the office under local anesthesia. At the patient’s option, sedation can be administered by an anesthesiologist at an accredited surgery center. Following surgery, you will need a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you for 24 to 48 hours.

Recovery

Patients go home on the same day as surgery but should have a responsible adult stay with them for 24 hours. The recovery period is relatively rapid with most patients feeling very well by 2-3 days. Strenuous activity should be avoided for 1 week. Dr. Liu will follow you closely during the recovery period and will let you know when you can resume full activities. Swelling and bruising from upper eyelid surgery usually lasts around 5 days.

Contact Our Practice

Whatever the reason, Asian double eyelid surgery can enhance the appearance of the eyes and provide significant personal benefits for the right candidate. To find out if Asian double eyelid surgery is right for you, please make an appointment with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons.