Double-eyelid surgery has become a popular option for men and women of
Asian descent today. This procedure effectively creates a double eyelid
through the creation of a second crease at the top of the upper lid. The
procedure provides a more Western appearance for Asians, accentuating
the beautiful, almond shape of the eye itself. As the procedure has become
more popular, more cosmetic doctors are becoming well-versed in this technique,
providing Asian patients the look they want with minimal downtime after surgery.
Benefits of Double-Eyelid Surgery
While double-eyelid surgery offers a more “Westernized” appearance, that is not the only reason Asian patients seek out this procedure from an experienced cosmetic surgeon. Other benefits of double-eyelid surgery include:
- Easier application of eye makeup without smudging
- Opens up the eye for a more youthful look
- Creates a uniform look among family members
- Makes upper eyelashes more prominent
- Minimizes the appearance of “sleepy” eyes
- Resolves appearance of premature aging common with single lid
- Creates a look of symmetry between uneven eyelids
In many cases, this procedure can be performed with tiny incisions and minimal sutures for little visible scarring afterward.
About the Procedure
Most doctors perform double-eyelid surgery under local anesthetic with sedation. An incision is placed in the location of the second crease, and the two sides are carefully sutured together. At the same time, the doctor may remove the epicanthal fold, a portion of skin that drapes over the inner part of the eye. If necessary, fat tissue will also be removed from the lid for a smoother result.
When opting for double-eyelid surgery, it is important to choose a cosmetic surgeon experienced in this technique. A skilled surgeon will ensure the result is natural and symmetrical between the two eyes – essential components to a successful surgery. While some doctors may offer eyelid surgery to their patients, the techniques used for double-eyelid surgery are highly specialized and must be carefully learned and practice to achieve best results.
The popularity of Double-Eyelid Surgery
While double-eyelid surgery has become tremendously popular for Asians living in Western countries like the U.S., Asian countries are also capitalizing on the trend. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reports that double-eyelid surgery is a frequent high school gift in South Korea, a country where 99 percent of celebrities have had some type of facial plastic surgery. The trend is now spreading throughout the West, with more U.S. doctors offering the procedure than ever before as well.