Double Eyelid Surgery

Double Eyelid Surgery

Double eyelid surgery, also know as Asian upper blepharoplasty, is a minor surgery done to create a double eyelid crease when the double eyelid crease is absent or is indistinct. There are two techniques to perform double eyelid surgery: suture method and incision method. The selection of which technique to use depends on the upper eyelid’s anatomy and the patient’s preference. Both methods can give excellent results if selected correctly for the right patient, . The recovery time for the suture technique is shorter. However, the incision technique is more versatile and is able to do many  corrections such as to remove loose skin and excess fat, tighten the levator muscle, to correct asymmetric eyelids, ptosis repair, and fix unsatisfactory results from previous eyelid surgery. These problems usually cannot be addressed effectively by the suture method. The results of the incision technique  are usually more lasting than the suture technique.

Before surgery, precise measurements and markings are performed on the eyelid, according to the patient’s specific condition and needs. For example, the surgeon can determine the height and width of the double eyelid crease, how much skin and fat to remove and what type of tightening is to be performed. . The double eyelid crease’s medial end can either be designed to join the upper eyelid margin (tapered crease) or separate from the upper eyelid margin (parallel crease). Double eyelid surgery can also combine with epicanthoplasty and lateral canthoplasty to enhance the overall aesthetic results. (see Epicanthoplasty and Lateral Canthoplasty)

Preparation

1. 1. 1. Inform the doctor of any pre-existing medical conditions and drug allergy. All medical conditions must be treated and stabilised before surgery.

      2. Stop smoking at least one week before surgery. Smoking is harmful to wound healing and increases the risks of other post-operation complications.

      3. Stop the following medications and supplements from one week before surgery until one week after surgery:

         1. All supplements containing vitamin E, ginseng, ginkgo, garlic, fish oil, and other ingredients that increase bleeding during the surgery. Other supplements, traditional medicine, and herbs, in which ingredients are unknown, have to stop as well.

         2. Medicine that increases bleeding during surgery such as aspirin, NSAIDs and warfarin. However, you may need to consult your physician who prescribed the medication before you stop them.

      4. On the day of surgery, wear simple and comfortable clothing. Do not wear any makeup. Do not wear any jewellery and metal objects on the face and body.

      5. Bring a pair of sunglasses on the day of surgery for use after surgery.

      6. Don’t wear contact lenses on the day of surgery.

Surgery

Suture Technique:

Duration: 30 minutes. Incision method: 1 to 2 hours

Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia

Hospitalization: Not required

Recovery: Back to work in 3-7 days, light exercise after one week, heavy exercise after 3-4 weeks. *The actual speed of recovery may vary from person to person.

Surgical Technique:

Suture Method: Sutures are inserted into the upper eyelid at 1 to 3 points. This technique is suitable for patients with thin upper eyelid skin.

Incision Technique:

Duration: 1 to 2 hours

Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia

Hospitalization: Not required

Recovery: Back to work in 3-7 days, light exercise after one week, heavy exercise after 3-4 weeks. *The actual speed of recovery may vary from person to person.

Surgical Technique:

Incision Method: An incision is made on the upper eyelid skin, and tissue fixation is done to create the double eyelid crease. The results of the incision method are usually more predictable. The incision scar is hidden inside the double eyelid crease and is not visible when the eye is open. Most of the upper eyelid wounds heal very well, and the scars would not be noticeable. This technique can correct other problems, such as removing loose skin and excess fat, tightening the levator muscle to correct droopy eyelid and ptosis (read Correction of Droopy Eyelid and Ptosis Repair). The incision method is the treatment of choice to fix unsatisfactory results from previous eyelid surgery (read Revision Eyelid Surgery).

Post-operative Care**

1. 1. 1. What to expect: Swelling usually peaks on the second to third day after surgery and will gradually subside after that. Post-operative pain is usually minimal.

      2. General care:

         1. To reduce swelling: Apply cold pack in the first 3 days and then warm pack in the following 3 days. Elevate the head during sleep.

         2. Avoid smoking for at least one month. Smoking increases the risk of wound complications.

         3. Use sunglasses for protection when going outdoors.

         4. Good rest and adequate sleep are helpful for a speedy recovery.

         5. Be relaxed and calm. Contact the clinic if there are any queries.

         6. Don’t use contact lenses for at least 2 weeks.

      3. Medicine: Finish the oral antibiotics as prescribed. Take the painkiller when necessary.

      4. Wound care: Clean the wound with a clean cotton tip soaked with sterile water/saline. Apply antibiotic ointment. No wound dressings are required.

      5. Physical activity: Avoid heavy physical activities and exercises for at least one month.

      6. Follow-up: Come back one week after surgery for suture removal and review.

      7. Emergency: If there is heavy bleeding, a rapid increase in swelling or severe pain, contact the clinic/doctor for advice immediately.

**The instructions in this list are only for general guidance. If you have any specific queries or concerns during the post-operative recovery, please contact the clinic for further advice.