asian eyelid surgery

Asian Plastic Surgery – The Most Popular Plastic Surgery For Asians
Executive Summary about asian plastic surgery by Tu Tran

The sudden rise of the middle class in China now means its people have more money to spend on luxury services such as plastic surgery. In 2001, China lifted its ban on plastic surgery and since then, it has grew into an enormous two billion dollars a year industry.

In America, Asian-Americans has been one of the fast growing groups going under the knife. Studies by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) indicates Asian-Americans in 2005 had a whopping 437,000 plastic surgeries. The trend among Asian-Americans tend to have surgery so they look more Caucasian.

They consider a typical European/Caucasian appearance with long noses and double eyelids.

The most common surgeries Asians tend to have are:

Nose Remodelling (Rhinoplasty)

Asians tend to have low and flat nose bridges and usually wants to increase the nose height and sharpen the bridges. Conversely, Caucasians have longer noses and typically want to reduce the height of the nose.

During the operation, the skin is cut from the cartilage and the bone, and an implant (artificial plastic material) is inserted within the cavity of the nose. The nose is then closed and stitched up.

Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

Asians skins in general, tend to have less wrinkles and sagging compared to Caucasians. As a result, a brow lift is a common procedure with Asians.

Botox Injections

Botox is a very toxic substance if given in large doses. It is a muscle relaxant that paralyses muscles and reduces wrinkles. It is a safer option compared to other invasive procedures.

Double-Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Asians patients have mono-lids, no crease around the eyelid, and want to have a fold so it creates a double eyelid. This makes the eyes look more rounded and wider, similar to Caucasians. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), it is the third most popular plastic surgery among Asians.

Plastic Surgery For Asian Features
Executive Summary about asian plastic surgery by A Aaronson

If you look at the media, it may seem that plastic surgery homogenizes aesthetics, stripping away the features that make us unique. But the purpose of cosmetic surgery isn’t to erase heritage, ethnic identity, or uniqueness, but rather to enhance individual beauty. Today many cosmetic surgeons specialize in addressing different ethnicities needs, including those of Asian heritage.

One of the most commonly requested cosmetic surgery among all patients of various ethnic backgrounds is rhinoplasty. Asian patients are among the few who request a more prominent nasal bridge. Along with creating a stronger bridge, the tip of the nose is sometimes rotated upwards slightly and in some cases will be made more prominent as well.

The plastic surgeon will choose an appropriate implant in order to achieve the desired appearance. The implant will be used in conjunction with cartilage, which is harvested from another area of the body, to create a higher bridge that is balanced in angle and height to the tip. Both men and women can have highly successful outcomes if they maintain realistic expectations, choose a skilled specialist, and are an ideal candidate for the surgery.

Possible risks associated with rhinoplasty and placement of implants include, hemorrhaging, infection, breathing difficulties, dissatisfaction with results and extended bruising or swelling. The initial recovery period varies from two to three weeks, but it can take over a year before the swelling completely fades and the full results are visible.

Another commonly requested procedure popular among Asian patients is eyelid surgery, also called blepharoplasty. Many people of Asian descent lack an eyelid crease or “double eyelid”. This crease, which appears between the upper lash line and eyebrow, can make the eyes appear bigger and more dramatic. Many women find that the crease enables easier application of makeup and appears to make the face look brighter.

During the procedure, a plastic surgeon will make an incision above the eye, manipulating the muscles and tissues to create the crease, and then stitching it into place. In most instances patients may choose the height and shape of the crease line, ranging from a high arch to a more subtle curve.

The recovery period is one to two weeks with visible bruising and tenderness. Initial results should be visible within four months, but full formation can take up to a year. There are few major health risks, but aesthetic problems such as eyelid drooping, unevenly matched creases, visible scarring, and triple creases can occur in some cases.

Choosing cosmetic surgery will not change your heritage or individuality, but rather enhance the beauty you already possess. Many people of Asian descent have found that specialized plastic surgeons can help them achieve their aesthetic goals without compromising their uniqueness.

A number of plastic surgeons are familiar with particular procedures and patients. They are sensitive to individual desires and expectations as well as cultural differences. Realistic goals and an understanding of the various procedures can help you make an informed, thoughtful decision. If you still have concerns, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options.

Check out other guide on plastic surgery tummy tuck.