Double Eyelid Surgery

Double eyelid surgery, sometimes called Asian blepharoplasty, is performed to create or adjust an upper eyelid crease. The goal is typically to improve eyelid definition and symmetry while maintaining a natural look that fits the patient’s features.

The procedure can be planned as a primary surgery or as a revision if a prior crease has changed over time. A specialist assessment helps confirm which technique is appropriate and whether additional eyelid or brow factors should be considered.

Benefits depend on anatomy, technique and healing. A consultation is needed to confirm what is realistic.

• Defined crease: creating or enhancing upper eyelid fold visibility
• Improved symmetry: refining crease height and balance between eyelids
• More open appearance: in some patients, the eyes may appear less heavy
• Makeup application: some patients find eyelid definition easier for cosmetics

Results evolve over time as swelling settles. Mild asymmetry can persist and crease appearance can change with healing.

Double eyelid surgery may be considered for patients who want a crease created or adjusted and who have stable eye health. Only a qualified specialist can confirm eligibility after an exam and review of medical and eye history.

• Eyelid anatomy: assessment of skin thickness, fat, eyelid fold characteristics and lid support
• Eye surface health: evaluation for dry eye tendency and irritation risk
• Realistic goals: preference for a natural crease shape and height
• Travel readiness: ability to stay in country for early checks and suture care if needed

Some conditions require extra caution, such as significant dry eye, thyroid eye disease, eyelid position problems or prior eyelid surgery. Your surgeon will advise based on your individual risk profile.

The choice of technique depends on eyelid anatomy and the desired crease definition. Surgeons typically select an approach that aims to preserve eyelid function and reduce the chance of an overly high or unnatural crease.

Steps vary by technique and by whether the procedure is combined with other eyelid adjustments. Your surgeon should explain crease design, incision placement and suture plans.

Double eyelid surgery is commonly performed with local anesthesia and sedation, though general anesthesia may be used based on patient preference, medical factors or combined procedures. Your clinician will confirm the safest option for you.

Most patients describe mild discomfort, tightness and swelling rather than severe pain. Bruising is common early on. Your team should provide a symptom management plan and explain warning signs that require urgent review.

Preparation for double eyelid surgery abroad should include an eye focused health review and practical planning for early healing. Swelling can temporarily affect vision comfort, so allow time for rest and follow ups before flying home.

• Eye history: share dry eye symptoms, contact lens use, prior eye surgery and vision concerns
• Medication review: provide a full list of medicines and supplements, since some increase bleeding risk
• Smoking and nicotine: nicotine can impair healing and may increase complication risk
• Travel planning: schedule enough in country time for early checks and any needed suture removal
• Recovery support: plan for rest and help with daily needs during the first days

Do not start or stop medications without guidance from your treating clinicians.

Timelines vary by technique, especially between suture and incisional methods. Your surgeon will confirm follow up timing and when it is reasonable to fly.

Recovery depends on technique and individual healing. Swelling is common early and crease definition evolves over weeks to months. Final crease appearance can continue to settle for several months.

After returning home, aftercare focuses on protecting the eyelids, supporting comfort and completing follow ups. Your team should provide clear written guidance and a plan for remote check ins.

• Incision care: gentle cleaning as directed and avoiding rubbing the eyelids
• Eye comfort: monitor dryness, irritation and tearing and report persistent symptoms
• Activity: avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting until cleared and protect the eyes from sun and wind
• Remote follow ups: photo or video reviews help track crease settling and scar maturation

Seek urgent local care if you develop worsening pain, fever, increasing redness, drainage, sudden vision changes or significant bleeding and notify your surgical team.

Double eyelid surgery is common, but it still involves risks because eyelid position and eye surface comfort are important. Your surgeon should explain your individual risk profile and how concerns are managed.

• Common and expected: swelling, bruising, temporary dryness or irritation, visible incision line early on in incisional cases
• Possible complications: infection, bleeding, noticeable scarring, asymmetry, crease too high or too low, crease loosening over time
• Functional risks: difficulty fully closing the eyelids, prolonged irritation or dry eye symptoms
• Less common but serious: significant bleeding, vision threatening complications, reaction to anesthesia, need for revision surgery

Conservative planning and experienced technique reduce risk, but no outcome can be guaranteed.

For double eyelid surgery, international patients often look for surgeons with consistent eyelid aesthetic judgement, careful crease design and facilities that support safe anesthesia and early follow ups. Coordination matters because early checks help confirm eyelid closure, manage swelling and plan suture care before travel.