Double Eyelid Surgery
Double Eyelid Surgery (Asian Blepharoplasty) in Singapore
Double eyelid surgery, or Asian blepharoplasty, is a popular cosmetic procedure in Singapore that creates or enhances the double eyelid crease. It is particularly sought after by individuals of East Asian descent who tend to have monolids or faint eyelid creases. The double eyelid surgery procedure can be performed using two main techniques: incisional and non-incisional (suture) methods.
Types of Eyelids
Eyelids come in various shapes and characteristics. Here are three common types:
- Double Eyelids – Double eyelids feature a visible crease that divides the eyelid into two sections when the eyes are open. This type is often associated with larger and more alert-looking eyes.
- Monolids – Monolids, or single eyelids, lack a distinct crease, creating a smooth surface from the inner corner of the eye to the brow. This eyelid type is prevalent among East Asians and can give the appearance of smaller eyes.
- Hooded Eyelids – Hooded eyelids are characterised by an extra layer of skin that partially covers the eyelid crease. This type can be hereditary or develop with age.
What Is Double Eyelid Surgery?
- Advantages – This technique offers permanent results, making it suitable for individuals with thicker or droopier eyelids. It allows for a high degree of customisation in terms of the crease shape and height.
- Considerations – Recovery from this method typically takes longer (several weeks) and there is a risk of some visible scarring, although scars usually fade over time.
Non-incisional (Suture or Scarless) Double Eyelid Surgery
This involves using sutures to create the desired upper eyelid crease without making any incisions. Here, the surgeon makes a few tiny openings in the upper eyelid and inserts sutures through those openings to form the crease. This technique offers minimal scarring and downtime and is suitable for individuals with thinner upper eyelid tissue or those seeking subtle enhancements only.
- Advantages – This approach is less invasive, resulting in a shorter recovery time of about 3 to 7 days. It is also reversible, so the sutures can be removed if one decides to.
- Considerations – While this method is less traumatic to the eyelid, it may not provide as durable results as the incisional technique. The crease can loosen over time, especially in individuals with thicker eyelids.
Benefits of Double Eyelid Surgery
- Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal – Creating a defined eyelid crease can make the eyes appear larger and more expressive.
- Easier Makeup Application – Many people find that applying makeup becomes easier after surgery, with the defined crease providing a better canvas for eyeliner and eyeshadow.
- Boost in Self-Confidence – Patients often report increased self-esteem and confidence after seeing the outcomes of the procedure.
- Long-lasting Results – Unlike temporary solutions like eyelid tape, double eyelid surgery results are permanent and does not require extra effort on a daily basis.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Double Eyelid Surgery?
- Lack of an Upper Eyelid Fold – Individuals with monolids, as well as those with only a faint crease, asymmetric crease, or multiple upper eyelid folds; can benefit from double eyelid surgery.
- Health Status – Candidates should be in good overall health and free from serious medical issues such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or major eye disorders. Non-smokers or those who can quit smoking before surgery are preferred as smoking can slow recovery.
- Realistic Expectations – Individuals must have realistic expectations regarding the potential outcomes and limitations of the surgery.
Recovery and Aftercare
After double eyelid surgery, patients can expect to experience some swelling and bruising around the eyelids. Patients will usually have gauze over their eyes and may experience temporary blurry vision.
Sutures are typically removed about a week after surgery, and while most swelling subsides during this time, some residual swelling may linger for weeks. During this period of time, you should adhere to your doctor’s advice on wound care and medications.
As recovery progresses into the second and third weeks, most patients can resume regular activities. To facilitate healing, it is recommended to avoid contact lenses and eye makeup. Full recovery can take several months, with final results appearing after around six months.
Risks and Considerations
While double eyelid surgery is considered safe and widely performed, you should still be aware of potential risks before deciding to undergo the procedure. These include:
- Infection – An infection can occur at the incision site and require additional treatment or antibiotics to resolve.
- Numbness and Sensation Changes – Patients may experience numbness of the eyelids or altered sensations, which can affect eyelid movement and comfort during recovery.
- Difficulty Closing Eyes – Some people may find it difficult to close their eyes fully after surgery, leading to temporary dryness and discomfort.
- Scarring – Although incisions are made discreetly and scars fade with time, there is still a risk of unfavourable scarring.
FAQs About Double Eyelid Surgery
Double eyelid surgery typically lasts 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the technique and extent of the surgery. The suture method is generally quicker, while the incisional method may take longer due to the tissue removal and suturing involved. Both procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.
Most patients report only mild discomfort after double eyelid surgery. Local anaesthesia is administered so you will not feel any pain during the procedure, and any postoperative discomfort can usually be managed with pain relief medications.
Double eyelid surgery results are generally considered permanent, especially with the incisional method. However, factors such as ageing and skin elasticity can affect the appearance of the eyelids over time.
The cost of double eyelid surgery in Singapore varies widely depending on the technique used, the surgeon’s experience, the complexity of the procedure, whether additional treatments are needed, and so on. Patients are advised to contact an accredited double eyelid surgeon for a detailed cost estimate.
Yes, non-surgical methods exist for creating double eyelids, including eyelid tape and glue. These options provide temporary results and can be applied or adjusted at home. However, they do not offer the permanence or structural change that surgical methods provide.
Achieve a more youthful and expressive appearance tailored to your natural features. Book a consultation with our experienced surgeon today.
About Our Double Eyelid Surgeon
Dr JONAH KUA
Medical Director
Consultant Plastic Surgeon
MBBS, MRCS, MMed, FAMS (Plastic Surgery)
Dr Jonah Kua is experienced in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, with a particular focus on double eyelid surgery. He previously served as the Head of the Plastic Surgery Service at Changi General Hospital and was the National Program Director in Plastic Surgery at Singapore General Hospital. Dr Kua is also the recipient of dual fellowship awards in the United Kingdom and South Korea. At his practice, Dr Kua combines clinical expertise with a deep understanding of individual eyelid structures to achieve natural-looking and beautiful results.
Other Eyelid Enhancement Procedures We Offer:
● Epicanthoplasty
● Upper Eyelid Surgery
● Lower Eyelid Surgery
● Ptosis Correction Surgery
● Sub-Brow Excision
● Eyelid Fillers