Surgical double eyelids for droopy lids and excess fat, by our surgical team
Creates a defined, long-lasting eyelid crease while removing the excess skin or fat that makes the eyes look heavy and tired. The incision or suture technique is chosen to suit your eye structure after a consultation with the doctor.
Why some people need surgery rather than a non-surgical option
A defined crease forms when the eyelid skin is anchored to the levator muscle at the right level. If the lid is thin with no excess fat, a suture technique or plasma can achieve this. But when loose skin hangs over the lashes, bulging fat makes the eyes look constantly puffy or the two creases are uneven, surgery is the only method that truly removes the excess. Dr. Kate measures the amount of excess skin and checks the function of the levator muscle first, because if the lid droops due to muscle weakness (ptosis), that must be corrected at the same time or the crease will remain indistinct even after surgery.
Incision technique vs suture technique
| Aspect | Incision technique | Suture technique |
|---|---|---|
| Method | An incision along the new crease line; excess skin and fat removed; skin sutured to the muscle | 3–5 small punctures; sutures anchor the skin to the muscle; no skin removed |
| Suits | Loose eyelid skin, excess fat, or a previous suture crease that has come undone | Thin lids with little fat, younger patients |
| Longevity | Long-lasting; most people do not need it repeated | The crease may fade or come undone in 1–5 years, depending on the individual |
| Swelling | Noticeable for 1–2 weeks; natural at 1–3 months | 3–7 days |
| Scar and time | The line is hidden in the eyelid fold. 60–90 minutes | Tiny puncture marks. 30–45 minutes |
Compared with Plasma Eyes
Plasma Eyes uses plasma energy to tighten slightly loose eyelid skin with no surgical incision, suiting people whose lids are just beginning to sag and who do not want a long recovery. However, it can tighten only about 1–2 mm of skin per session and cannot remove fat. If the skin covers more than half the crease or there are obvious fat pads, the doctor will recommend surgery, because repeated plasma sessions may cost more time and money for a smaller result.
Preparing for surgery
- Basic blood tests, and tell us about any eye conditions such as dry eye, glaucoma or previous LASIK
- Stop medicines and supplements that increase bleeding for 2 weeks, and no smoking
- Remove contact lenses before surgery day and do not wear them for a further 2 weeks
- No eyelash extensions or eye make-up on the day, and arrange for someone to take you home
Surgery day
Recovery
Possible risks include a haematoma under the skin, infection, uneven creases, temporary dry eye or incomplete eye closure during the swelling phase, and raised scars in those prone to them. Contact the clinic promptly if eye pain keeps increasing, your vision is reduced or doubled, one eyelid becomes rapidly swollen, tight and hard, or there is pus at the wound.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do surgical double eyelids last?
The incision technique generally lasts for many years without needing to be repeated, but the eyelids continue to loosen with age, so some people have further skin removed 10–15 years later.
Will the crease look unnaturally high?
In the first 2–4 weeks the crease looks high because of swelling, which is normal. The surgeon designs the crease with the height after swelling and your brow structure in mind. A natural crease for most Thai patients sits 6–8 mm above the lash line.
I am young. Should I have the suture or incision technique?
If your lids are thin with no excess fat, the suture technique has a shorter recovery and is sufficient. If your eyes look puffy from fat or the lid skin is thick, the incision technique gives a clearer, longer-lasting result. The doctor will examine your anatomy and advise.
Can I have double eyelid surgery and rhinoplasty on the same day?
Often yes. The advantage is a single recovery period, but there is more swelling across the mid-face and the operation takes longer. The doctor assesses your health and the extent of the work before deciding with you.
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