Your eyes are often the first thing people notice. Patients considering eyelid surgery often wonder how the results will impact their appearance. Double eyelid surgery creates a visible crease in the upper eyelid. This creates a noticeable difference in how the eyes look. Many patients wonder, will double eyelid surgery change the shape of my eyes? Below is helpful information to help you navigate your research on double eyelid surgery.
Will Double Eyelid Surgery Change the Shape of My Eyes?
Double eyelid surgery creates a defined crease in the upper eyelid. It is not meant to alter the fundamental shape of the eye. The procedure adjusts the eyelid skin and underlying tissue. This ultimately forms a fold where one did not naturally exist. This crease change can make the eyes appear more open and alert. The eyeball, socket structure, and overall eye shape remain the same.
Before surgery, eyelid and face specialists plan the crease height and shape based on each patient’s unique eyelid anatomy. The primary goal is to create a natural-looking fold that complements your natural beauty. The surgery is highly customizable to account for your unique anatomy. It is also curated to achieve your desired aesthetic goals.
Surgical Planning for Double Eyelid Surgery
Surgical planning begins with a detailed evaluation of your unique eyelid anatomy. Your surgeon will examine your crease, eyelid fold, eyelid skin, epicanthal fold, and fat. Some patients have a crease present on one eye and not the other. Your surgeon will account for this during the procedure, as each eye may be different. During the consultation, the surgeon will take measurements to address your concerns precisely.
A major part of the surgical planning process involves discussing your goals and expectations. This conversation helps the surgeon understand exactly what you want. Considering your unique anatomy, the surgeon incorporates this information into the plan. The goal is a natural, symmetrical crease that enhances your eyes. This is done while preserving your ethnic identity and facial harmony.
This level of planning helps avoid overly done or overly Westernized results. Working with a surgeon with extensive experience treating Asian patients is key. Ask for before-and-after photos of prior patients. This lets you see whether you like the surgeon’s work. Finding the right surgeon for your unique needs takes time. However, it is an important step in moving forward with double eyelid surgery.
What to Expect from Double Eyelid Surgery
Moving forward with double eyelid surgery can help you achieve your desired look. The first step is scheduling a consultation. Once your surgeon determines you are a good candidate for the procedure, you will receive pre-operative instructions. Read these right away and follow them exactly. If you have any questions, consult with your surgeon right away. You will need to avoid smoking and using nicotine products. You may also need to stop taking certain medications or supplements. Before stopping any medication, consult with your prescribing doctor.
On the day of your surgery, local anesthesia with sedation is often used. This ensures your comfort throughout the procedure. However, some patients use local anesthesia alone. This is up to you and will be discussed at your consultation. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis so that you can go home the same day. The entire visit takes roughly one to two hours, depending on the complexity of your case.
We make small incisions to create the double eyelid. We place them strategically based on the surgical plan. Small sutures create your customized crease. After surgery, you will be observed for a short period. This is most often necessary if you went under sedation. Have a trusted friend or family member accompany you to the appointment. They can drive you home and help you the first few days after the procedure.
Recovering from Double Eyelid Surgery
Recovery after double eyelid surgery is usually smooth. Plan for about seven to ten days. However, each patient is uniquely different. Be patient, as moving too fast can affect your long-term results. Plan for at least one week of complete downtime. If your symptoms have not improved, it can take up to two weeks to get back to your normal routine. You will notice swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort after surgery. This is normal and should subside during recovery.
To manage your symptoms after surgery, follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions. Keep your head elevated, even when you sleep. This helps reduce swelling and pressure around the eyes. A cold compress is also highly beneficial during the first few days as you recover. Take your prescribed medication as scheduled. This can ease discomfort after surgery and make the process smoother. You will need to attend your post-surgery follow-up visits. This allows the surgeon to look at your incisions and recovery progress. They can make any necessary modifications to address your specific experience.
When it comes to movement, take things slowly. Focus the first few days on rest. However, you can implement gentle movement around the house if you feel up to it. Light walking can improve circulation and support healing. Avoid strenuous exercise for at least one month. Your surgeon will clear you for physical activity when you are ready. Follow their instructions to preserve your results. You will notice your results right away. However, it can take months to see your final results. Take care of your skin and health to ensure your results last.
Leading Eyelid and Face Specialists
The appearance of your eyes can impact your entire face. If you want to improve the look of your eyes, contact the team at InFocus Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation!