Double Eyelid Surgery (East Asian Eyelid Surgery)
Double eyelid surgery enhances the upper eyelid in patients who have an eyelid without a well-formed crease, which is a normal anatomic variation that’s common among people of East Asian descent. Also known as East Asian eyelid surgery, the procedure is most often performed to give the upper eyelids a well-defined and more visible crease, making eyes appear more open, alert, and expressive.
East Asian eyelid surgery creates a natural-looking crease that is ethnically correct while providing for an eyelid platform that creates the desired open appearance. When the eyelids completely heal, the crease blends in harmony with the patient’s unique eyelid structures. To achieve a good result, the surgical plan must be customized to the individual’s anatomy and cosmetic wishes.
Although the procedure is primarily cosmetic, some patients may choose to incorporate the techniques of East Asian eyelid surgery in functional surgery. Specifically, the repair process of conditions such as ptosis or dermatochalasis in East Asian patients can utilize the Double eyelid technique to achieve a harmonious outcome.
This specialized blepharoplasty performed at Kahana Oculoplastic and Orbital Surgery involves one of two procedures. The technique Dr. Kahana administers will be based on the shape of your eye and the goals you have in mind.
Small incisions are made in the upper eyelid to remove excess skin, fat, and tissue, while the remaining skin and muscle are secured to create a new crease. This commonly used approach allows for greater control over the contour of the upper eyelid.
Here are some important points regarding the surgical process, downtime, and longevity:
Ideal for patients with minimal excess eyelid skin and fat, this less invasive approach involves placing sutures through the eyelid to create a crease.
The incisional approach to East Asian eyelid surgery is generally considered permanent, as the technique produces structural changes in the eyelids that result in a lasting crease. These changes typically settle and mature for several months after the surgery, with tissues completely settling within about a year.
Although this approach is designed for permanence, long-term appearance of the results can be impacted by skin quality, lifestyle habits and natural aging. For example, routine exercise, a balanced diet, and a good skin care routine including quality moisturizers and sunscreens can optimize the benefits of your procedure.
These recommendations also apply to results generated by the suture approach, which is not quite as resilient as the incisional method. It’s important to remember that as people age, their skin loses elasticity. Over time, this can impact the appearance of eyelids, even after surgical procedures such as double eyelid surgery.
Dr. Kahana is a specialist with advanced training in both ophthalmology and plastic surgery, with a particular focus on eyelid surgery. He is a member of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS). With 20 years of experience, Dr. Kahana has the skills and insight to optimize results while reducing complications.
For a more comprehensive and balanced outcome, patients often combine procedures such as lower eyelid surgery, CO2 laser skin resurfacing, Botox treatments, and more. In addition to experiencing a single recovery period through simultaneous healing, patients can lower their costs, as surgical and anesthesia fees are often reduced compared to staged procedures. Complementary rejuvenation can also generate consistent results by allowing the surgeon to perform precise, balanced refinements and adjustments during the procedure.
Most patients report minimal discomfort during recovery. The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring you won’t feel pain during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is typically managed well with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication for the first few days, along with cold compresses.
Yes. Dr. Kahana’s approach focuses on creating natural-looking results that complement your unique facial features. The goal is to enhance your eyes while maintaining their natural character and your ethnic identity.
This depends on your specific anatomy and aesthetic goals. During your consultation, Dr. Kahana will evaluate your eyelid structure, skin quality, and desired outcome before recommending the most appropriate technique for your situation.
Our patients are adults with fully developed facial features. Some patients opt for the procedure in their early 20s, while others choose to wait until much later in life. Your own unique circumstances and goals will help determine what age for surgery is most appropriate.
With the incisional technique, the incision is placed in the natural fold of the eyelid, blending the scar with the natural crease. The suture technique leaves no visible scarring as it does not involve external incisions.
Most patients return to work within 7-10 days, though this varies based on the technique used and your individual healing. Most patients can return to their daily activities within 2 weeks, after bruising and swelling have subsided. The suture-only technique usually requires less healing time than the incisional technique.
We recommend avoiding contact lenses for about 1 week after surgery. Makeup, particularly eyelid makeup, should be avoided for about 3 weeks. You’ll want to be careful not to irritate the surgical site or cause infection.
While most patients are very satisfied with their results, Dr. Kahana will discuss your concerns during your follow-up appointments and is committed to doing everything reasonable to achieve your desired outcome. We always do our very best to avoid such a situation because at Kahana Oculoplastic and Orbital Surgery, we believe that you never have a second chance to do it right the first time.
Insurance does not cover cosmetic procedures. However, if you have functional issues such as ptosis (drooping eyelids) that affect your vision, partial insurance coverage may be possible for the functional component. Our office staff can help determine your coverage options.
As with any cosmetic surgery or procedure, protecting your skin from sun damage and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will help ensure your results remain optimal. For the suture technique, touch-up procedures may be needed after several years.
Your journey toward a fresh, rejuvenated look begins with a private consultation with Dr. Kahana at Kahana Oculoplastic and Orbital Surgery.
To schedule your evaluation, please call 248-800-1177 or click the link below
