Asian eyelid surgery, also known as double eyelid surgery, is a specialized procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the eyes of individuals of Asian descent. Unlike traditional eyelid surgery, which focuses primarily on correcting aging-related issues such as sagging skin and puffiness, Asian eyelid surgery aims to create a natural-looking crease in the upper eyelid. Eyelid expert Dr. Yael Halaas is here to delve deeper into this unique procedure and explore how it differs from traditional eyelid surgery.
What is Asian Eyelid Surgery?
Asian eyelid surgery is an aesthetic surgery that aims to form a crease in the upper eyelid. If your Asian eyelid lacks a crease, this feature results from the specific arrangement and distribution of eyelid skin, muscle, fat, and connective tissue. Your eye's levator muscle—a muscle that raises the upper eyelid—may have differing connections to the skin above it compared to non-Asian eyelids, which often already have a crease.
Surgeons consider these anatomical differences to meticulously craft the new eyelid crease fitting your unique facial structure, making your eye appear larger and more open. The objectives of this surgery often include improving facial symmetry and increasing the definition of the eyelids while maintaining the natural ethnic appearance.
Comparison With Traditional Eyelid Surgery
Asian eyelid surgery often involves the creation of a crease in the upper eyelid to create a defined upper eyelid fold, which about 50% of Asians may not have naturally. The technique subtly modifies the lid structure without Westernizing the eye. In contrast, traditional eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, typically aims to remove excess skin, fat, and muscle to correct drooping eyelids and may not involve creating a new eyelid fold.
Another difference is associated with surgical objectives. For example:
- The objectives for Asian eyelid surgery are deeply rooted in cultural and aesthetic preferences that honor the natural shape of the eye while enhancing its definition, and patients typically seek to maintain their ethnic identity without westernizing their appearance
- Traditional eyelid surgeries may not take these specific cultural aesthetics into account as they are more focused on rejuvenation and addressing aging-related concerns
Asian Eyelid Surgical Techniques
When electing for Asian eyelid surgery in New York City, you'll find Dr. Halaas an exceptional choice. Her expertise caters to your distinct anatomical needs and aesthetic aspirations. The surgeries she offers are tailored to produce a natural-looking crease, evident when your eyes are open and subtly present when closed, taking about an hour under local anesthesia.
Her techniques include the following:
- Full Incision Technique: Ideal if you have considerably thick eyelid skin or pronounced droopiness. This method involves meticulous removal of surplus skin and tissue and careful reattachment to the eyelid's framework, influencing both crease appearance and functionality upon recovery.
- Partial Incision Method: This method suits those with fatty eyelids but without significant skin surplus. Rather than a full cut, up to three minor incisions are made. The extra fat is extracted through these, and the incisions are stitched to create the crease line.
- Double Suture and Twist Approach: This technique is advantageous for patients with minimal skin excess, no eyelid sagging, and little to no eyelid fat. It involves minor entry points on the eyelid, allowing the placement of sutures that connect the skin to the muscles, forming the crease.
Choose Dr. Haalas for Asian Eyelid Surgery in NY
With her extensive experience in Asian eyelid surgery, Dr. Halaas stands out in New York City for her precision and care in enhancing the natural beauty of your eyes. She holds dual certification from the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
More importantly, Dr. Haalas collaborates closely with each patient to grasp their individual goals from both personal and aesthetic standpoints. She’s recognized for her integrity and understanding and is committed to tailoring treatments to accommodate various budgets. This unique combination of attentive listening, artistic insight, precision, and empathy distinguishes Dr. Haalas in her field.
To learn more about Asian eyelid surgery, contact us today to schedule your consultation!