The Asian eyelid is quite different from the Western or Occidental eyelid.  Multiple anatomic differences exist and this results in a variety of different appearances of the upper eyelid crease.  In about 50% of Asians, an upper eyelid crease exists.  The remainder have an absent or remnant of an eyelid crease.  

A complete preoperative evaluation is essential before embarking on any surgical procedure particularly in the Asian eyelid.  Dr. Korn will take the time to evaluate your complete eye history.  Pre-existing dermatochalasis, eyelid ptosis, and entropion must be identified and addressed at the time of surgery for optimal results.  

Asian female with single eyelid crease and small degree of upper eyelid entropion

There are multiple approaches to creating an eyelid crease (double eyelid).  In the closed technique, the goal is the creation of an adhesion between the skin, pretarsal tissue and conjunctiva using externally placed sutures.  While this technique is simpler with faster recovery, there are some potential downfalls.  First, this technique does not address entropion or lash ptosis which is often seen in Asian patients such as above.  Next, if the externalized sutures are not buried deeply enough, continued irritation of the cornea and even permanent scarring can result.  Finally, there is the issue of how long the results will last.  

The technique that Dr. Korn prefers is the open approach.  This technique allows individualized surgical planning for each patient.  If excess skin, fat or muscle is present, then this can be addressed at the time of surgery.  Furthermore, misdirection of the eyelashes can also be simultaneously treated during the open approach.  Double eyelid (crease fixation) is then performed using multiple buried sutures to create a natural nasally tapered eyelid crease.  

Same patient after double eyelid Asian blepharoplasty

In this patient shown above, the open approach was used to create the double eyelid (Asian blepharoplasty) as well as correcting the upper eyelid entropion.  Note the natural appearance of the nasally tapered crease.  

Before and After of Asian Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty and Ptosis Repair.  

For more before and after photographs, please see Dr. Korn's photo gallery.  

To make an appointment for San Diego Asian Blepharoplasty with Dr. Korn, please contact our office.