Asian Eyelid Blepharoplasty

When referring to Asian eyelids, the term “single eyelid” refers to an eyelid without a lid crease. In contrast, the term “double eyelid” refers to a lid with a crease, which divides the lid into two parts: above the crease and below the crease. In the Asian culture, having a double eyelid is a desirable trait, as only about 30% of the Asian population have a naturally occurring lid crease that is well formed and symmetric. Many have either no lid crease, a very faint crease or multiple asymmetric lid creases.

Asian blepharoplasty, also known as double eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that has become increasingly popular in recent years among men and women who seek to change the appearance of their upper eyelids to create this double eyelid.

The goal of double eyelid surgery is to crease an eyelid with a single, well-formed and symmetric crease in both upper eyelids.

Patients seeking Asian blepharoplasty fall into two categories:

• Younger patients who only want a single symmetric eyelid crease (double eyelid)
• Older patients who want a single symmetric eyelid crease in addition to eyelid rejuvenation in the form of removal of excess skin and fat

For patients in the first category, there are multiple described techniques to perform double eyelid surgery. They fall into two broad categories: incisional vs non-incisional techniques (also known as suture technique). Although the suture technique may be quicker, the incisional technique is far more predictable and longer lasting. For this reason, Dr. Maleki most often only performs the incisional technique. 

For patients in the second category, only incisional techniques are available as one must make an external skin incision to remove the excess skin and fat before reforming the lid crease. At Toronto Eyelid Surgery, the incisional technique of choice is with the use of a co2 laser as this decreases the amount of swelling and bruising and shortens the postoperative recovery process. 

The height of the eyelid crease is an important to part of any discussion of Asian blepharoplasty of Asian eyelid surgery. Depending on the shape of the face and the patient’s own preferences, Dr. Maleki will discuss various options for the eyelid crease position and shape. Generally, a more natural appearing Asian eyelid has a crease anywhere between 5 to 8 mm above the lash line and is more tapered. The higher the lid crease, the more rounded or “westernized” the look.

With his comprehensive understanding of the natural Asian eyelid crease as well as the mastery of the surgical techniques required to create it, Dr. Maleki can also correct the unsatisfactory results of an Asian blepharoplasty done by another medical professional. For example, he can improve indefinite folds, uneven folds or unequal folds.

I am interested! How should I proceed?

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your eyelids and are considering eyelid surgery, we encourage you to book a private consultation with Dr. Maleki. You do not need a referral from a doctor. You can call the office directly to schedule an appointment or email us at info@torontoeyelidsurgery.com.