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Our Approach to Asian Eyelid Surgery: Artistry and Technique.

We can perform several surgical techniques to enhance the look of the Asian eyelid. The most crucial objective is understanding your goals. Do you know what eye shape and appearance you desire? If you are unsure, it is time to do some research – and some soul-searching. We want to gain a thorough understanding of the look you envision in planning your surgery. We will work closely with you at this phase. Dr. Cheng will sketch the process on paper for you, so you understand how the operation works, in detail. You can provide feedback about the look you want during the sketching process.

Asian Eyelid Surgery Videos

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Art and Medicine Coming Together

Working with you and sketching the planned changes helps to verify that the procedure will enhance your eyes as you desire. The sketching process helps us formulate a plan for how to best create the crease; how much skin to take; how high to make the crease and crease shape.

It aids us in making decisions about whether to pull the crease closer to the nose; whether to subtly widen the eyes; or to repair ptosis (a droopy lid). When you work with us at Cheng Plastic Surgery, your eyelid surgery is far more than a surgical procedure – it is art and medicine coming together to enhance the focal point of your face – your eyes.

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What is Asian Eyelid Surgery?

Many people with an Asian background have inherited eyelids without a natural crease. A custom procedure, Asian eyelid surgery involves removing a thin strip of skin, muscle, and fat (when needed) from the upper lid to create a natural-looking crease. Various surgical approaches can be employed. The surgical technique used will be based on what you desire.

Am I a Candidate?

If you lack an eyelid crease and find it challenging to apply makeup, or would like a slightly more open look, revealing more of your eyes and lashes, you are likely a candidate for this surgery. Some patients with an Asian family background may choose upper eyelid surgery to create the crease, and a more open look, and lower eyelid surgery to address undereye bags.

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What Should I Expect in the Procedure?

The beauty of the results is the direct result of the skills and artistry of your facial plastic surgeon. You must choose your surgeon carefully – you will live with the results for years!

At Cheng Plastic Surgery, we are recognized as being among the most accomplished facial plastic surgeons for Asian eyelid corrections and enhancement. The procedure performed with meticulous care, customized to match the unique eye structure of the individual.

It proceeds as follows:

  • The area is numbed, so you are comfortable throughout the procedure. You may also choose to go under IV Sedation – especially if combining multiple procedures.
  • Your eyelid is marked where the crease will be created.
  • An incision is made where the crease is to be formed, with a sliver of excess skin and fat delicately and carefully removed.
  • The incision site is hidden within the newly-created crease.
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Why Choose Cheng Plastic Surgery?

Dr. Elbert Cheng and Dr. Jacqueline Cheng are a highly-regarded brother-sister team of accomplished surgeons who are among the most sought-after surgeons for Asian eyelid surgery. Their private, luxury clinic in San Jose is a premier destination for those of Asian descent throughout the Bay Area to undergo eyelid surgery to create an attractive, natural-looking fold. They offer their patients some critical benefits:

  • Both surgeons are double board-certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery and head and neck surgery.
  • They have established a highly-accredited, practice that holds its patients to the highest regard, providing the individual patient with attentive care.
  • A large part of the practice is custom Asian plastic surgery in San Jose.
  • They have established a high-tech, state-of-the-art, private plastic surgery center with access to two operating rooms, entirely staffed by fully-accredited medical professionals.
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Recovery from Asian Eyelid Surgery

When you undergo this delicate procedure at Cheng Plastic Surgery in San Jose, you can expect a relatively rapid and easy recovery. To plan correctly, we advise:

  • Take one week off work to rest and heal.
  • Follow all aftercare instructions carefully for faster healing.
  • Expect some bruising and swelling in the early stages of recovery.
  • You may have blurry vision in the first few hours after surgery due to the anesthetic.
  • Take the time to rest and heal, with your head elevated.
  • Apply the eye drops and ointment as directed.
  • Use Tylenol for pain relief if needed, and a lightweight cold compress to reduce swelling.
  • Do not wear contacts for a week.
  • Drink lots of water and avoid any alcohol during healing.
  • Eat healthy foods, low in salt to avoid excess water retention.

If you wish to learn more, contact us today at Cheng Plastic Surgery and schedule a consultation for arguably the best Asian eyelid surgery San Jose has to offer.

Asian Eyelid Surgery FAQs

What is the difference between the incisional and non-incisional methods?

The non-incisional method, often called the suture technique, creates a crease by placing small sutures in the eyelid without any cutting. Recovery is faster, but it works best for patients without much excess skin or fat. The incisional method involves a small, precise opening along the eyelid to permanently form the crease, and is a better option when more structural change is needed.

What kind of anesthesia is used?

Asian eyelid surgery is typically done under local anesthesia with light sedation. The specific approach is always decided based on the procedure and your comfort, and your team will walk you through what to expect well before surgery day.

How long does the procedure take?

Most procedures take one to two hours, depending on the technique and whether any additional refinements are being made at the same time. You will receive a clearer estimate once your surgical plan is finalized.

What should I expect in the first week of recovery?

Some swelling and bruising is completely normal and expected. Your eyelids may feel tight and look more swollen than you anticipate at first, but this settles steadily. Cold compresses and keeping your head elevated help. Most patients feel comfortable being out and about again within one to two weeks.

When will I see my final results?

Most of the initial swelling clears within a few weeks, but the crease continues to soften and settle over several months. By around three months, most patients are seeing something very close to their final result. Some subtle improvement continues through six months.

Can I combine this with another procedure?

Yes, and many patients do. Asian eyelid surgery pairs well with rhinoplasty, a brow lift, or other facial refinements when multiple changes are on your mind. Your surgeons will let you know what can safely be done together and what the recovery would look like.

Are the results permanent?

With the incisional method, results are typically long-lasting and very durable. The non-incisional suture technique holds well for many years, though in some patients the crease can loosen over time. Your surgeons will go over both options so you can decide what makes the most sense for your goals.

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