Asian eyelid surgery, or Asian blepharoplasty, is a highly specialized procedure that requires precision, artistry, and a nuanced understanding of Asian eyelid anatomy. The goal is not just to create an eyelid crease but to enhance the eyes while preserving the natural beauty and ethnic identity of the patient. Choosing the right surgeon is the most critical step in achieving a successful outcome.
As a facial plastic surgeon, I have seen both excellent results and cases where revisions were necessary due to poor surgical planning. Here’s my guide on how to select the best surgeon for your Asian eyelid surgery.
1. Look for a Facial Plastic Surgeon with Expertise in Asian Eyelid Surgery
Not all plastic surgeons specialize in Asian eyelid anatomy. Since about 50% of Asians naturally have a monolid, the procedure requires an intricate understanding of how to create a crease that looks natural—not artificially high or deep.
What to look for:
- A board-certified facial plastic surgeon or oculoplastic surgeon
- Extensive experience in Asian blepharoplasty (not just general eyelid surgery)
- A deep understanding of different eyelid structures across various Asian ethnicities and an individualized approach based on each patient’s anatomy, including skin thickness and reactivity.
2. Review Before-and-After Photos
A skilled surgeon should have a portfolio of before-and-after photos showcasing their work. Pay close attention to how natural the results look. Extensive experience also comes with revision surgery, of other surgeons’ work as well as their own.
Key things to evaluate in photos:
- Symmetry – The eyelid creases should look even, but not unnaturally identical.
- Natural-Looking Crease – The fold should complement the patient’s eye shape.
- No Over-Correction – The eyes should not look overly “Westernized” or unnatural.
- Minimal Scarring – Incision lines should be hidden within the new crease.
If you notice multiple cases where the results look too high, deep, or uneven, that surgeon may not be the right choice. Most surgeons have an online gallery, they very likely have even more photographs for review in office.
3. Ask About Their Surgical Techniques
There are two main techniques for Asian eyelid surgery.
1. Incisional Method:
- Involves a small incision along the upper eyelid.
- Ideal for patients with excess skin, fat, or thicker eyelid tissue.
- Produces long-lasting, natural results when performed correctly.
2. Non-Incisional (Suture) Method:
- Uses small stitches to create a crease without cutting the skin.
- Best for patients with thin skin and minimal excess fat.
- Has a shorter recovery time but may not last as long as the incisional method.
Why Technique Matters
A skilled surgeon will recommend the best technique based on your unique anatomy and goals, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. Most patients who have had a non-incisional suture method will go on to require an incisional method if their initial surgery fails.
4. Check for Board Certification and Credentials
Board certification ensures that the surgeon has undergone rigorous training and meets the highest standards of expertise.
Look for certification from:
- American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS)
- American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
- American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) (for oculoplastic surgeons)
Avoid surgeons who lack certification or have no formal credentials in eyelid surgery.
Also understand, that asian eyelid surgery is not a formal part of plastic surgery or oculoplastic surgery residencies or fellowships. Most surgeons who specialize in this procedure spend additional time beyond standard training learning this procedure.
5. Schedule a Consultation and Ask the Right Questions
A consultation is your opportunity to assess the surgeon’s expertise and determine if they understand your aesthetic preferences.
Key Questions to Ask:
- How many Asian eyelid surgeries have you performed?
- Do you specialize in working with patients of my ethnic background? (Chinese, Korean, Japanese, etc.)
- What is your revision rate for this procedure?
- Can you show me more before-and-after photos of past patients?
- What surgical technique do you recommend for my eyelid type, and why?
Your ideal surgeon should assess the entire orbit and how this will affect the end result. For many patients, especially older patients, the brow area also affects the end result and should also be addressed.
6. Read Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Read patient reviews and testimonials, but also take these with a grain of salt. This is a very high expectation, high risk procedure with an incredibly low margin of error. Good results are measured in milimeters, and results that look great may be off by 1mm, resulting in patient dissatisfaction. Absolute symmetry is unrealistic.
I advise looking at reviews to see how the patient was treated, whether a revision was required, and how the surgeon and practice handled it? Patient reviews can provide insight into the surgeon’s skill, bedside manner, and patient satisfaction. Look for reviews on:
- RealSelf
- HealthGrades
If multiple patients mention botched results, unnatural creases, or complications, take it as a red flag. However if this surgeon specializes in revisions of other surgeons’ work, this will occur. Again, most important is seeing how the surgeon handles these types of results.
7. Consider the Surgeon’s Aesthetic Approach
The best Asian eyelid surgeons focus on enhancing natural beauty rather than creating a “Westernized” appearance. A top surgeon will:
- Listen to your goals instead of imposing their own aesthetic ideals.
- Customize the eyelid crease to match your facial proportions.
- Prioritize natural-looking results that complement your ethnicity.
If a surgeon seems to push a one-size-fits-all look, they may not be the right fit.
8. Safety and Follow up Care
Each surgeon will have a different post operative protocol. Most surgeons use non absorbable sutures to prevent excessive inflammation of the incision.
I always recommend post operative silicone to help incision heals faster and to address post operative redness of the incision. Regular follow up is essential to ensure the healing process goes smoothly. For out of town patients, virtual follow up is also an option.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice
Asian eyelid surgery is a highly specialized procedure that requires an expert understanding of facial anatomy and aesthetic balance. The best surgeon for you is one who:
- Has extensive experience in Asian eyelid surgery
- Understands the differences in eyelid anatomy across Asian ethnicities
- Uses customized techniques for natural-looking results
- Has strong credentials and positive patient reviews
- Takes the time to listen to your goals and answer all your questions
By taking the time to research, review patient results, and consult with multiple surgeons, you can find a skilled professional who will help you achieve beautiful, natural eyelid enhancement with confidence.
If you’re interested in a Asian eyelid consultation at our practice, please request a consultation or call us at (503) 953-1230 to get started today.
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