Double eyelid surgery, also known as an Asian blepharoplasty, differs from a traditional blepharoplasty. The unique anatomy of Asian eyelids requires a customized surgical approach. The epicanthus, eyelid crease, and location of fat in the eyelid are factors associated with Asian eyelids. Skilled surgeons remove fat within the eyelid to retain the Asian eyelid shape.
With double eyelid surgery, the eyes can change shape through skin incisions without scarring. An Asian eyelid may have no crease at all, while others experience well-defined creases. To ensure a successful surgery, surgeons will maintain symmetry with both eyes.
Double Eyelid Surgery
Double eyelid surgery can be classified by the height, depth, and curvature of the crease. Those who receive double eyelid surgery will notice their eyes are larger and more pronounced after surgery. Additionally, eyelashes become exposed. Incisions during double eyelid surgery allow for a higher placement of the crease.
Asian eyelids may have excess fatty tissues, downward-pointing eyelashes, a narrow palpebral fissure, or the absence of the superior palpebral fold. These features can sometimes impact impressions, revealing looks of fatigue or anger. Because of this, patients may choose to enhance their double eyelid surgery.
Reasons People Choose Double Eyelid Surgery
According to the National Institute of Health, there are various reasons why Asians opt for double eyelid surgery. For instance, those with the following may choose double eyelid surgery:
- Single eyelids
- Bulky eyelids
- Draping eyelids covering the upper half of the iris
- Excess fat attached to eyelids
- Upper eyelid folds
- Eyelashes that brush against the cornea of the eye
In addition, some individuals choose this surgery for various reasons. In fact, patients may select surgery as it can result in the following:
- Creating a natural-looking double eyelid crease
- Enhancing the existing eye shape
- Solidifying the symmetry of the eyelids
- Maintaining cultural identity
- Improving vision
- Reducing puffiness
- Experiencing minimal pain after surgery
These positive results provide lasting benefits for patients and minimal downtime post-surgery.
Double Eyelid Surgery Techniques
Double eyelid surgery techniques can differ. In fact, there are three main techniques for double eyelid surgery.
The surgery techniques include:
- Mini-incision double eyelid blepharoplasty – Surgery for patients with tight and thin upper eyelids
- Full-incision double eyelid blepharoplasty – Surgery for patients with bulky or loose eyelids
- Full-incision double eyelid blepharoplasty and epicanthoplasty – Surgery for patients who have an epicanthus, a skin fold of the upper eyelid covering the inner corner of the eye
Minimal incisions are placed adjacent to the limbus of the eye, and pockets of fat are removed from the eyelids. A full-incision double eyelid blepharoplasty requires careful removal of a strip of skin and the herniated septum fat. Additionally, full-incision double-eyelid blepharoplasty and epicanthoplasty are determined by the elasticity of the skin. When the skin’s tension is released, triangle flaps form.
Recovery from double eyelid surgery requires various forms of self-care. All of the following is involved post-surgery:
- Mild pain similar to a headache for 1-2 days following surgery
- Over-the-counter pain medication to reduce pain
- Stitches that dissolve over the course of 10 days
- Bruising and swelling that lasts for 10 days
- Ice packs are applied to areas exhibiting puffiness
- A post-operative visit 1 week after surgery
Once a patient meets with the surgeon for a follow-up appointment after surgery, the doctor may lift previous restrictions, such as refraining from driving, exercise, and heavy lifting.
Find a Surgeon
Those seeking to receive double eyelid surgery should consider Eye Plastic Surgery of Minnesota. Our practice specializes in ophthalmic plastic surgery. Our services are comprehensive and include reconstructive, revisional, and aesthetic surgery for the eyelids and surrounding areas of the eyes.
Consider our eyelid surgery center for your eyelid treatment needs. Whether you are unsatisfied with your appearance or your vision is impaired due to eyelid trauma, patients can find expert treatment. Speak with one of our eyelid specialists today.