Asian Blepharoplasty

What is an Asian blepharoplasty?

An Asian blepharoplasty (aka a double eyelid surgery) is a cosmetic surgery procedure performed by a plastic surgeon to create a natural appearing static eyelid crease in the upper eyelid. Individuals of Asian descent with a monolid (single eyelid) typically utilize Asian blepharoplasty to achieve an upper eyelid crease.

The Anatomy of the Eye

The epicanthal fold at the medial epicanthus of the upper eyelids seen in those of Asian descent is a prominent feature of Asian eyelids. Additionally Asian eyelids are termed a monolid or single eyelid due to their lack of the eyelid fold type most commonly seen in Caucasian eyelids.

There are two different Asian Blepharoplasty techniques to achieve the desired upper eyelid appearance:

• Suture Method (a.k.a. Suture Ligation): Sutures are used to tie skin into the desired position of the upper eyelids to create an upper eyelid crease
• Open Incisional Approach: A portion of the eyelid skin and excess fat is removed. The underlying upper eyelid muscle is altered as well.

The results of the upper eyelid plastic surgery are permanent, and will be immediately noticeable following the double eyelid surgery procedure. Bruising, swelling, and pain of the upper eyelids will persist for up to ten days. Most patients are comfortable being in public two weeks post op, but will need to limit strenuous activities for up to four to six weeks.

What cosmetic concerns does an Asian blepharoplasty procedure treat?

1. Sagging & Hooded Eyelids: An Asian blepharoplasty is a surgical eyelid procedure to create a natural crease in the upper eyelid through alterations to and debulking of eyelid tissues in the upper lid, including the eyelid skin and eyelid muscles (such as the levator aponeurosis or orbicularis muscle). The epicanthal fold at the medical epicanthus will also be addressed during an Asian blepharoplasty.

Who is the ideal candidate for an Asian blepharoplasty procedure?

The ideal candidate for an Asian blepharoplasty is seeking a permanent, natural appearing upper eyelid crease. This double eyelid surgery is most commonly in individuals of Asian descent. Asian blepharoplasty is not recommended for patients with significant brow ptosis, bulging/prominent eyes, chronic dry eyes, or certain medical conditions.

What is the average recovery associated with an Asian blepharoplasty procedure?

The acute healing phase of an Asian blepharoplasty lasts about seven to ten days. Swelling, bruising, and pain typically last one week and can be mitigated with cold compresses and over the counter pain medications. Nonabsorbable sutures will be removed from the upper eyelids after one week. Strenuous physical activity and sun exposure should be limited for four to six weeks.

To better understand the healing and downtime associated with the procedure, check out our complete guide to blepharoplasty recovery.

What are the potential side effects of an Asian blepharoplasty procedure?

The potential side effects of an Asian blepharoplasty include difficulty in closing the upper eyelids to the lid margin when sleeping, blurred vision, swelling and bruising, scarring, bleeding, and changes in sensation.

What can someone expect from the results of an Asian blepharoplasty procedure?

The results of an Asian blepharoplasty are immediately noticeable, permanent enhancements to the upper eyelid with the formation of a natural eyelid crease. The results will be subject to natural aging over time.

What is the average cost of an Asian blepharoplasty procedure?

This is a one time plastic surgery procedure that can cost anywhere from $2,200 to $7,000. The actual cost of an Asian blepharoplasty is dependent upon location, plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery. Learn more in our complete guide to blepharoplasty cost.