Asian eyelids are anatomically different than Caucasian eyelids. The upper eyelid orbital fat is more prominent, and the upper eyelid crease is lower or nonexistent in Asian eyelids. About half of all Asians are born without an upper eyelid crease, known as a single eyelid, while the other half are born with an upper eyelid crease, known as a double eyelid. The eyelid crease, when present, can be broken or continuous, partial or complete, nasally-tapered, parallel, or multiple, in contrast to the classic semi-lunar shape of Caucasian upper eyelids. The shape and the eyelid corners of Asian eyelids are also different from Caucasian eyelids.
Because of the anatomical difference, Asian blepharoplasty requires a unique approach with a focus on achieving a natural, symmetric result, while preserving the Asian features of the eyelid. Westernizing an Asian eyelid is unnatural and unpleasant, which is why it is our goal to preserve the natural prominent upper eyelid orbital fat while creating an aesthetically pleasing eyelid crease comparable to natural-born Asian eyelid with double eyelid crease.
The Asian Blepharoplasty Procedure
Asian eyelid crease surgery is usually performed to create a double eyelid appearance in those with poorly defined creases, or to even out asymmetric creases. There are two main techniques for this type of procedure, namely incisional and non-incisional. The non-incisional technique is faster and offers a quicker recovery, but its effects are less predictable and long-lasting. The incisional technique, meanwhile, is more predictable and long-lasting.
Both operations are usually performed under local anesthesia with or without sedation. Similar to most eyelid surgeries, there is a recovery period of about 7-10 days with swelling and bruising.
While the Asian blepharoplasty is enough to achieve the desired results in many cases, it may not be adequate for all patients. For patients who have concurrent ptosis (droopy upper eyelid), the Asian blepharoplasty needs to be combined with ptosis surgery to optimize results. Asian upper blepharoplasty can also be combined with lower blepharoplasty or other eyelid surgery.
Finding the Right Asian Blepharoplasty Surgeon
When choosing a surgeon to perform Asian blepharoplasty, look for a cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgeon who specializes in the eyelids, orbit, and tear drain system, namely an Oculoplastic surgeon, like Dr. Taban. Your surgeon’s membership in the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) indicates that he/she is not only a board certified ophthalmologist who knows the anatomy and structure of the eyelids and orbit, but also has had extensive training in ophthalmic plastic reconstructive and cosmetic surgery.
If you are considering Asian blepharoplasty, schedule a consultation with Beverly Hills oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Taban today by calling (805) 669-9101.