Asian Blepharoplasty (Double Eyelid Surgery)

Double eyelid surgery is suitable for both male and female patients. As discussed above, there are several reasons why you may seek double eyelid rejuvenation surgery to freshen up your appearance. Double eyelid surgery helps to create a fresher, more “awake” appearance for the patient. Excess skin, muscle, and fat are removed if they contribute to a puffy appearance.  Some people have severe excess skin in the upper eyelids affecting their vision and this is a medical reason to seek eyelid surgery.

If you are over 18, generally healthy, not overweight and a non-smoker, you are suitable for eyelid rejuvenation surgery. Occasionally, some people who seek eyelid rejuvenation surgery may actually not be suitable, and may require a different treatment (including non-surgical rejuvenation procedures).

At your consultation, you will meet Dr Kian, a fully-qualified plastic surgeon who is trained in both surgical and non-surgical eyelid rejuvenation. He will take a full medical history including details of medications, allergies, smoking and eye problems. Dr Kian also always takes time to understand what your goals and concerns are.

During your examination, the following will be assessed systematically and standard clinical photographs will be taken for your medical record:

• amount of excessive skin
• fat bulges
• skin quality
• brow ptosis (drooping brows, including ‘compensated brow ptosis’ which causes you to subconsciously raise your brows)

Dr Kian will then discuss your procedure with you. He will also discuss the incision and scar that you are likely to expect. He will explain the potential risks and complications of surgery so that you make a fully-informed decision. There will be plenty of time to answer any questions that you may have and you can rest assured that Dr Kian will give you his honest, professional advice.

The first method involves an incision, allowing the scar to be concealed in the crease of the eye. This alternative necessitates two weeks of recovery, with the scar completely healed in three months.

The second approach creates the crease with a running stitch and leaves minimal scarring. The recuperation time is shorter (one to two weeks), but the results may be more shortlasting.

The scar completely healed in three months, so you will see your final results around this time.

You will be able to wear make up 7 days after your surgery. You will not be able to wear contact lenses for at least 2 weeks following eyelid surgery.

Most patients are very satisfied with the results of their double eyelid rejuvenation surgery. However, it is important to choose a surgeon who is appropriately trained in Asian blepharoplasty surgery to minimise the risk of complications. During your consultation, Dr Kian will explain the potential risks and complications of your procedure. Some of these include:

• Scar – the exact scar will depend on the specific technique and will be discussed
• Infection – some wound infections may require antibiotic treatment.
• Bleeding/haematoma – bleeding after surgery may require a second operation to remove the blood clot and stop any bleeding.
• Wound healing problems – occasionally, there may be areas that take a bit longer to heal due to either infection, impaired blood supply or skin necrosis.
• Recurrence – with any double eyelid surgery, there is a risk that the newly-created fold may become less obvious or even disappear with time
• Problems closing your eyelids (usually temporary)
• Ectropion (pulling down of your lower eyelid)
• Unfavourable results – this may be due to problems with asymmetry, under- or over-correction of your problem
• Problems with vision – dry/watery eyes, chemosis and conjunctivitis are common and usually subside. Rarer side effects include blurred/double vision and blindness (very rare).

Recovery time is very individual, however for most people this will be between 7 to 14 days. We would normally advise to take a 1-2 weeks off work, however you may return to work sooner or later depending on how you recover and the type of work that you do. Full results take at least 6 weeks, however this will vary from person to person.

Dr Kian believes that good aftercare is as important as the surgery itself. You will be given contact details to get in touch should you have any concerns after your surgery. You will be advised to have someone with you for at least the first 24 hours after your surgery. You will have a clinic appointment approximately 5 days after your procedure to remove your sutures. At this time, the wound is inspected to ensure that it is healing well and there is no infection. You will have a full review appointment with Dr Kian at approximately 6 weeks after your surgery to check that you are happy with your results and to give you long-term aftercare instructions.