What Is a Double Eyelid?
A double eyelid is characterised by a visible crease or fold of skin where the eye meets the eye socket. This crease divides the eyelid into two distinct parts, giving it the appearance of two eyelids. While double eyelids are prevalent in many ethnicities, including Caucasian, Middle Eastern, African, and some Asian groups, their presence is primarily determined by genetics.
Reasons for Double Eyelid Surgery
Aesthetic Preferences
Cultural and personal preferences play a significant role in the desire for double eyelids. In some societies, double eyelids are perceived as more attractive, increasing the demand for surgical procedures to achieve this look. Patients may simply want their eyes to appear wider or larger.
Vision Impairment
Sagging or drooping eyelids can obstruct vision, especially in older patients. This obstruction can lead to difficulties in reading, driving, and other daily activities, necessitating surgical intervention.
Ageing and Skin Elasticity
As we experience inevitable ageing, the skin around the eyes eventually loses elasticity. This natural process can lead to the development or changes to the eyelids. The eyelid may sometimes evolve into a hooded eye, where excess skin droops over the crease. Changes in this area vary widely from patient to patient.
Double Eyelid Surgery Procedures
Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to create or enhance the appearance of double eyelids. During this procedure, excess skin and/or fat are removed to achieve the desired eyelid shape.
Suture Technique
The suture technique is a non-incisional method used to create a double eyelid crease. It involves using sutures to fold the eyelid skin, creating a natural-looking crease.
Pre-surgery Preparations
Before undergoing double eyelid surgery, patients are advised to avoid certain medications and supplements that can increase bleeding. A detailed consultation with the surgeon is also mandatory to set realistic expectations for you, the patient, and to assess your suitability. You will be asked to give a detailed account of your medical history, including medications and supplements you may be taking.
Cost Of Double Eyelid Surgery London UK
The cost of double eyelid surgery in London, UK, can vary based on the surgeon’s expertise, the complexity of the procedure, and the facility where the surgery is performed. On average, the price can range from £3,500 to £4,000. This is the typical price range for Derma Revive Skin Clinic.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post-surgery Care
After undergoing double eyelid surgery, following the surgeon’s post-operative instructions must be followed meticulously. This may include applying cold compresses to reduce swelling, taking prescribed medications to alleviate pain, and avoiding strenuous activities. Keeping the head elevated, especially during sleep, can also help minimise swelling.
Long-term Recovery
The recovery period for double eyelid surgery typically lasts a few weeks. While the initial swelling and bruising will subside within the first week, patients are advised to avoid activities that strain the eyes, such as reading or watching television, for at least a few days. Protecting the eyes from direct sunlight and wind during recovery is also very important. You will be given specific, personalised advice post-treatment.
Potential Complications
While double eyelid surgery is generally safe, like all surgical procedures, it carries some risks. Potential complications include infection, bleeding, scarring, and asymmetry. In rare cases, patients may experience difficulty closing their eyes or other vision-related issues.
Nonsurgical Options for Double Eyelids
Double Eyelid Tapes and Glues
Double eyelid tapes and glues offer a temporary solution for those not ready for surgery. These products are designed to create a crease in the eyelid, mimicking the appearance of a double eyelid. While they provide an instant result, the effect is temporary and needs to be reapplied daily.
Fillers and Botox
Injectables like fillers and Botox can be used to enhance the appearance of the eyelids without surgery. Fillers can add volume, while Botox can relax specific muscles, subtly altering the eyelid’s appearance.
Benefits and Limitations
Nonsurgical methods offer the advantage of being less invasive and requiring no downtime. However, their results are temporary and may not achieve the same effect as surgical procedures.
Who is a Candidate for Double Eyelid Surgery?
Individuals considering double eyelid surgery should meet specific criteria to ensure the best possible outcomes. Ideal candidates for this procedure typically:
- Desire a Permanent Change: Those looking for a long-lasting solution to achieve double eyelids instead of temporary methods like tapes or glues.
- Have Good Overall Health: It’s essential to be healthy without serious medical conditions that could hinder healing or increase surgery risks. Not all medical conditions will preclude you from having the surgery, however.
- Have Realistic Expectations: Understanding the potential outcomes and limitations of the surgery is an important factor. A consultation with a qualified surgeon will ensure you know all about your procedure in exact detail.
- Experience Vision Impairment: Individuals whose vision is obstructed due to sagging or drooping eyelids may benefit from the procedure.
- Seek Aesthetic Enhancement: Those who desire a specific eyelid shape or appearance for personal or cultural reasons.
Your choices
Double eyelids, whether natural or achieved through surgical or nonsurgical methods, are a personal choice. Individuals need to make informed decisions based on their desires and needs. With advancements in cosmetic procedures, various options are now available for those looking to alter their eyelid appearance. Regardless of the chosen method, consulting with a qualified professional is your best choice to ensure safety and achieve the desired results.
If you would like to know more about double eyelid surgery, please get in touch to book a consultation. Obviously, this type of procedure is something that will take careful consideration as to the where, who, and when. If you have some unanswered questions you would like to put to us prior to a consultation, please feel free to get in touch with us at the clinic. We are more than happy to answer any questions you may have.