Asian Eyelid Surgery

Double eyelid surgery, also called Asian eyelid surgery or Asian blepharoplasty, is a popular procedure among San Francisco women and men who lack a crease in their upper eyelids. In some cases, this procedure may also be used to expose and accentuate a faint or poorly defined crease. Dr. Albert Chow is a specialist in this intricate procedure. As a board-certified facial plastic surgeon in San Francisco, he has an intimate understanding of the delicate structures of the eyelids and face. As a result, he is able to produce exceptional results without infringing upon the unique and desirable characteristics of his Asian patients’ eyes.

Why Do Some Asians Lack an Upper Eyelid Crease?

An eyelid crease naturally forms when the eye opens because of a connection between the following facial structures:

• Levator muscle that raises the upper eyelid
• Orbicularis muscle that closes the eye
• Upper eyelid skin

People without an upper eyelid crease have a much weaker connection between these structures, or none at all, so when the eye opens, the muscle and skin slide down over the eye without creating a crease.

Why Do Asians Get Double Eyelid Surgery?

Dr. Chow performs double eyelid surgery for people of different ethnicities but mainly those of Asian descent. The reasons people consider Asian eyelid surgery vary somewhat from traditional eyelid surgery. Without compromising their ethnic characteristics, Dr. Chow provides women and men of all ages a variety of improvements, including:

• Creating or defining the upper eyelid crease
• Making the eyes look bigger
• Refreshing a tired or aged appearance
• Opening up space for eyeshadow, mascara, and eyelash enhancement
• Improving vision that is obstructed by sagging upper eyelid skin

Dr. Chow also performs specialized facelift and rhinoplasty procedures for Asian patients. In addition to double eyelid surgery, he may recommend a brow lift to reduce the heaviness of the upper eyelids. Whatever the case requires, Dr. Chow works closely with each patient to establish a treatment plan consistent with their goals and needs.

How Is Asian Eyelid Surgery Performed?

Dr. Chow performs Asian eyelid surgery using local or general anesthesia depending on patient preference and the specifics of the procedure. He can use an incisional or non-incisional technique depending on:

• Thickness and amount of excess eyelid skin
• Presence and amount of excess fat
• Specific eye anatomy

Incisional Technique

Best for patients with excess eyelid fat, this option is performed through a small incision in the upper eyelid. A crease is shaped by removing excess fat and skin from the upper eyelid and then attaching the levator muscle to the dermal layer within the skin.

Suture Technique

This option, also called the non-incisional technique, involves placing 3 or 4 individual sutures that attach the upper eyelid skin to the underlying muscle.

In addition to upper eyelid surgery, Dr. Chow can remove excess skin and fat from the lower eyelids, much like traditional lower eyelid surgery.

Double Eyelid Surgery Cost in San Francisco

The price for Asian double eyelid surgery depends on the specifics of the surgery and whether it is combined with other surgical or nonsurgical procedures. During your consultation, you will be provided with a specific price for your surgery. We offer patient financing through CareCredit® to those who are interested.

How Long Is Recovery After Double Eyelid Surgery?

Recovery time varies between patients and the technique that is used. Most are back to work and regular activities in 3 to 10 days. It typically takes 1 to 2 weeks for the initial swelling and bruising to resolve.

Most patients have little to no pain after Asian eyelid surgery. Ice packs should be applied to the eyelids as directed for the first few days to keep swelling and bruising to a minimum. It is also helpful to sleep in a recliner or propped up with pillows to keep the upper body elevated.

Double Eyelid Surgery FAQ

How common is double eyelid surgery?

Eyelid surgery in general is a very commonly performed procedure. Double eyelid surgery is more common in women than men. Dr. Chow has extensive experience performing the procedure on a wide variety of patients.

Is Asian eyelid surgery permanent?

The results of Asian eyelid surgery are long lasting, especially when performed with the incisional technique. The aging process will continue, so patients may need a revision at some point in the future.

How long will the surgery take to perform?

Double eyelid surgery takes about an hour to perform.

How old do I need to be to get double eyelid surgery?

Patients should be at least 18 years old.

Is the procedure safe?

When performed by a highly experienced board-certified specialist like Dr. Chow, Asian eyelid surgery is safe.

What Are My Next Steps?

With his extensive training, qualifications, and experience in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Chow is an excellent choice for your Asian eyelid surgery. To find out more, request a consultation using his online form or call  (415) 441-1888 to schedule an appointment.