Asian Eyelid Double-Fold Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Unique facial features help characterize each of us and our ethnic origins. Approximately 85% of Asians are born without a distinct fold in their upper eyelids. The change to a "double fold" in the Asian eyelid is considered by many to create a wider or more open eye. This then conveys more definition and expression of Asian beauty. For these reasons, the double fold eyelid procedure is the most common aesthetic procedure performed on Asian patients, both male and female.
This procedure is performed by your triple board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Gilbert Lee, who has been voted by the San Diego Medical Society "Top Doctor" for the past 6 years running. Read more about Dr. Lee's qualifications on his CV.
Asian Eyelid Revision Photos
These photos were taken of patients in San Diego who received Asian eyelid revision at Changes Plastic Surgery. Please visit our complete photo gallery of Asian Eyelid Surgery.
Asian female requests blepharoplasty and double fold procedure. Photo taken 2 months post op.
BEFORE
AFTER
The Asian eyelid operation differs from the blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, performed on Caucasians. In Caucasians, a blepharoplasty is almost exclusively done to correct the effects of aging by removing excess skin and fat from the eyelids. By contrast, the double fold procedure is usually performed on younger Asian patients who desire a more defined, dramatic appearance to their eyes. The objective of the surgery is not to create a Caucasian eyelid, but to enhance the natural beauty of the native Asian eye. Another benefit of the procedure is that eye make-up is easier to apply and keep in place.
To correctly perform this procedure, the plastic surgeon must have a keen understanding of the differences in anatomy between Asian and Caucasian eyelids. These differences include a smaller distance between the eyelid and the eyebrow in Asians, the presence of more fat and muscle in the Asian eyelid, and a shallower eye socket in Asians. The manner in which eyelid muscles attach to the skin and eyelid also differs.
Despite the wide popularity of this procedure in Asia, most American plastic surgeons have very limited experience with this operation. For the best results, your plastic surgeon should be experienced in this procedure, in addition to knowing the anatomy of the eyelid.
We are proud to say that our plastic surgeon Dr. Lee has studied this procedure in depth in Taiwan and offers the finest most reliable techniques to our patients. We tailor each operation to the specific needs of each individual Asian patient.
Procedure Description
In your initial consultation, you and your surgeon will discuss the type of eyelid shape you desire. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia. First, your surgeon will mark the area of the intended fold. Then, he will remove skin, muscle, and fat from the area of the fold. Based on your aesthetic goals, your surgeon will determine the amount of skin, muscle, and fat to be removed. Lastly, the surgeon will suture the eyelid skin to the muscle that opens the lid, thus creating the double fold whenever the eyelid opens.
Post-Operative Care
Stitches are removed 4 to 5 days following the procedure. The fold is present immediately. Recovery takes approximately 10 to 14 days until the majority of the bruising is gone.
Patient Testimonial
"Thank you so much for your wonderful surgery. You’ll never be forgotten for the thoughtfulness you’ve shown. Hopefully you will visit Beijing, China in the Future!" -Byron X
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