Double eyelid surgery, or Asian blepharoplasty, is a procedure that differs slightly in administration and outcome from other forms of eyelid surgery. Typical blepharoplasty procedures are thought of as Western blepharoplasty and are intended for people with primarily Western features. Those procedures are conducted to reduce the amount of loose skin near the upper and lower areas of the eyes, which reduces the amount of sagging skin present and corrects the visibility of puffiness or bags under the eyes. While these corrections can be made during Asian blepharoplasty as well, the goal of a double eyelid surgery is to add a fold to the upper eyelid.
How Common is Double Eyelid Surgery?
This procedure is popular among Asian women. So popular, in fact, that it’s believed to be possibly the most common plastic surgery in the world, and certainly is so in Asian countries. The procedure is most popular among Asian women, although men can and do have the surgery as well. Roughly half of all Asian people naturally have a “double eyelid,” or a fold that congenitally formed in the upper eyelid. Many Asian people believe this to be an attractive feature, but it can also make the application of makeup easier.
What are the Benefits of Double Eyelid Surgery?
Most Asian people have eyes that are not particularly wide. Sometimes this even makes the eyes look too small compared to the proportions of the rest of the face. Since Asian blepharoplasty makes the eye appear wider, the benefits of double eyelid surgery often extend beyond the simple addition of a fold in the upper eyelid, resulting instead in a more overall aesthetic appeal to the face of the patient.
A qualified plastic surgeon with experience in conducting this procedure will understand that the goal is not to “overdo” the treatment, which can lead to overly Westernized features. Typically, Asian patients want to retain their Asian aesthetics, looking more like other Asian people who naturally have a double eyelid, rather than a Caucasian person. This is a balance that can be struck by working with a plastic surgeon who has successfully performed this surgery before. Ask to see before and after pictures of his/her patients who have received Asian blepharoplasty to get a better idea of the capabilities of the plastic surgeon that you’re considering working with.
How is the Procedure Conducted?
Asian blepharoplasty differs from western blepharoplasty only in the sense that the ultimate outcome adds a fold to the upper eyelid. The manner in which the surgeon gains access to the underlying anatomy of the ocular area is the same—small incisions are made. These incisions are made inside the natural creases of the eye so that they aren’t readily visible, and in some cases may not be visible at all. Excess skin will be removed and tightened, as will tissue, and in some cases small pockets of fat will be removed as well. The eyes will be made to appear wider which naturally forms a crease in the upper eyelid.
How Can I Learn More?
To learn more about Asian blepharoplasty and how this procedure might help you achieve your aesthetic goals, it’s best to work with a qualified plastic surgeon who has successfully performed the operation for many, many other patients. One such plastic surgeon is Dr. Cory Torgerson, an award-winning plastic surgeon in Toronto. If you’d like to schedule a consultation, during which time you can have all of your questions answered, please feel warmly welcomed and encouraged to dial (647) 343-0207 at your earliest convenience.
