Double eyelid surgery is a unique treatment that we offer to our patients in Honolulu. It is also called Asian eyelid surgery, as it is usually designed for people without a natural upper eyelid crease. Anyone with a monolid can increase the volume and space of their eyes without sacrificing their natural looks. Like all of our oculofacial procedures, double eyelid surgery is a highly flexible procedure. But what are the types of double eyelid surgery?
As it is still relatively new and unknown, double eyelid surgery evokes a lot of questions in interested patients. Does double eyelid surgery cause scarring? What are the types of double eyelid surgery available? What is the recovery process like?
What Are the Types of Double Eyelid Surgery?
Learn the answers to these key questions and find out if double eyelid surgery is for you with the information posted below.
But First: What Is Double Eyelid Surgery?
Double eyelid surgery is a very specific category of eyelid surgery. Its purpose is to create a natural-looking crease or fold in the upper eyelids. Some people do not have this crease on their upper eyelids naturally and this procedure can give them a more defined shape. In most cases, double eyelid surgery works best on patients of East Asian descent or those with a monolid.
By getting familiar with the different types of double eyelid surgery, you can understand a little more about how this surgery works and whether this is the right option for you. There are two major types of double eyelid surgery that we usually perform at the office of Dr. Lee.
The Two Types of Eyelid Surgery
There are several different types of double eyelid surgery available. The type that is best for you will depend on your anatomy. Before you decide, it is important to have a consultation with Dr. Bradford Lee so he can examine your unique anatomy, learn more about your desired results, and help you make an informed decision. Then, he will go on to describe the two methods of Asian eyelid surgery that we offer:
Incisional Surgery
Incisional double eyelid surgery is a more traditional form of surgery that requires you to go under the knife. The surgical method involves making a small incision in the upper eyelid and dissecting down to the muscle layer that opens the lid (the levator aponeurosis). Some fat may be removed at this time as well if needed. Fine stitches are then placed to mimic the fibrous attachments that occur naturally in a person with a double eyelid. This method has a lower rate of complications and produces better shape consistency. It is also appropriate for patients who are looking to reshape sagging lids.
Suture Method
The suture method is less invasive than the incisional technique, but it can produce inconsistent results. The resulting crease is often not as strong and can be prone to breaking or shifting with continued use of the levator muscle. Additionally, the suture method is not suitable for patients who need accompanying procedures such as epicanthoplasty or excess fat removal.
Partial eyelid folds are a common result of aging and can make the eyes appear smaller and tired. These folds are typically visible on the outer eyelid only, or they are present in the inner part of the eyelid but not the entire length. Double eyelid surgery can create a full, defined crease on the upper eyelid that makes the eyes look wider and more refreshed.
Which Double Eyelid Surgery Type Is Right for Me?
What you need depends largely on the extent of eyelid reconstruction you want. Incisional surgery may be the best option if you have more than a little bit of skin that needs attention. Incisional double eyelid procedures can be performed on a single or both upper eyelids at the same time, which can be a huge benefit.
Sutures provide benefits as well, though they are not as permanently stable as incisions. The procedure is typically done in the office using a local anesthetic. The oculoplastic surgeon will place numbing eye drops and then cover the eyes with contact lenses called corneal protectors to obstruct your vision and protect your eyes. Then, a crease will be created through a series of stab incisions along the lid. The surgeon then closes the incisions, which may or may not leave scarring behind.
Discover Your Eyelid Surgery Options with Dr. Bradford Lee
Dr. Bradford Lee is an established eyelid surgery expert, offering multiple treatments to patients in and outside of Hawaii. If you have a monolid or you are of Asian descent, you might benefit greatly from a double eyelid procedure. You can use the suture method if you just want a minimal change. Otherwise, the incisional method provides clear and long-lasting results. Learn more when you contact us and schedule a personal consultation.