Eyelid Surgery

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What is Eyelid Surgery?

Eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty involves removing excess skin and fat from the eyelids. This includes fat transposition, a procedure where fat is added to hollow or sunken areas to give a fuller look. It can be performed on the upper or lower lid, or both. One popular form of eyelid surgery in Singapore is the double eyelid surgery.

William Shakespeare wrote that the eyes are the window to the soul. He was right – alluring eyes can have a positive effect on an individual as well as on those who look upon him or her, so it is no surprise that eyelid surgery is one of the most sought-after cosmetic surgery procedures in Singapore.

We provide a wide range of procedures enhance the eyes with beautiful and natural-looking outcomes.

For a personalised consultation, please reach out to us today.

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Why Do People Undergo Eyelid Surgery?

Some people with puffy eyelids may have difficulties applying eyeliner due to the excess fat on their eyelids. There are various “home-fix” techniques such as double eyelid tape, thick eyeliner or even rubbing of the eyes to create double eyelids. Such methods are, however, time-consuming and temporary. With eyelid surgery, patients are looking for a permanent solution to their desire for larger and “more attractive” eyes.

Widely known as a cosmetic procedure, it is also typically done to reduce signs of ageing like eyebags for a more youthful appearance. However, blepharoplasty is also used to treat medical conditions such as droopy eyelids, which can impair vision, particularly in older people.

Blepharoplasty is also the solution for people who are finding it difficult to wear glasses or contact lenses because of baggy eyelids. This is true as well for those who experience irritation and friction from the constant rubbing of excessive eyelid folds, and forehead discomfort caused by overused muscles from lifting baggy eyelids. Eyelid surgery cannot treat saggy eyebrows, dark circles under the eyes, and other signs of ageing such as crow’s feet and wrinkles. However, it can be done at the same time as another procedure, including skin resurfacing, and brow and face lifts.

What Are the Types of Eyelid Surgery?

Upper Blepharoplasty

Incision upper blepharoplasty is recommended for patients who have a moderate amount of excess eyelid fat. This technique involves the removal of excess upper eyelid skin and fat.

Thereafter, the upper eyelid crease is created by stitching the skin down to the deeper tarsal tissue. This technique minimises the chance of losing the fold. As skin excision is involved, the recovery time is typically 1-2 weeks. This is also performed to correct ageing upper eyelids where the excess skin, muscle and fat are excised.

Lower Blepharoplasty

Lower blepharoplasty involves making tiny incisions beneath the lash line or inside the eyelid (transconjunctival approach) to add or remove excess fat and treat loose skin. At the same time, the eye muscles will be tightened to enhance the eyelid’s contour.

The eyelid surgeon often does this simultaneously with laser resurfacing to reduce creases around the eyes and improve skin texture. The procedure takes 1 to 2 hours with a downtime of about 10 days to 2 weeks.

Double Eyelid Surgery in Singapore

For double eyelid creation, the techniques include either suture blepharoplasty or incision upper blepharoplasty. Suture blepharoplasty (scarless double eyelid creation) is suitable for younger patients with minimal skin or fat excess. Usually, three well-aimed sutures are placed in each eyelid, with technique and surgical precision being of utmost importance. The downtime is around 3-5 days as no cutting is involved.

For patients who desire “longer eyes”, medial or lateral epicanthoplasty procedures can be performed. It is important to note that good eyelid surgery should be customised to suit the patient’s natural facial structure and ethnicity. The Caucasian double eyelid is usually higher, deeply set and has a crease parallel to the lash line.

The ideal Asian double eyelid is more subtle with slight flaring at the lateral edge. Previously, the westernisation of Asian eyes was very common, but it resulted in unnaturally high folds with excessive fat and skin excision, leading to a hollowed-out and aged look post-surgery. It is therefore vital that patients consult qualified plastic surgeons with an in-depth knowledge of eyelid anatomy and aesthetics. Only an experienced eyelid surgeon can make an accurate diagnosis of the problem and recommend the appropriate surgical treatment.

Dr Leo Kah Woon is an experienced eyelid surgeon in Singapore who offers a comprehensive list of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery services including upper, lower and double eyelid procedures.

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Are There Any Risks of Blepharoplasty?

Although a blepharoplasty is a well-established and safe procedure; like every other surgery, it still carries certain risks, including:

Infection or bleeding at the incision site
Dry, irritated, or watery eyes
Slight asymmetry
Swelling or bruising around the eyelids
Skin discoloration
Noticeable scars

However, rest assured that the risk of complications is very rare in the hands of an experienced eyelid surgeon and can usually be safely managed by a professional medical team.

FAQs About Eyelid Surgery

How long do the results of eyelid surgery last?

Eyelid surgery – especially those using the incisional method (versus the suture method) – typically offers long-lasting results. However, external factors such as the individual’s ageing process, prolonged sun exposure, and smoking can impact the longevity of the results.

How much does a blepharoplasty cost in Singapore?

The cost of a blepharoplasty procedure in Singapore varies greatly depending on the type of surgery performed, the technique used, the number of eyelids to be treated, surgeon and hospital fees, anaesthesia, and post-operative care such as medications and so on.

Is a blepharoplasty covered by insurance or Medisave?

Eyelid surgery is usually not insurance- or Medisave-claimable as most are cosmetic or elective in nature. However, should your procedure be deemed medically necessary, it may be covered. Please check with the clinic for specific details.

Can eyelid surgery correct vision problems?

Eyelid surgery can address vision problems caused by drooping or sagging eyelids (ptosis), which can obstruct one’s peripheral vision.

Can I wear contact lenses after upper eyelid surgery?

Patients are advised to refrain from wearing contact lenses until the wound on the eyelid has healed fully. The doctor will normally recommend wearing glasses until then.