Double eyelids have long been associated with a youthful and alert appearance, and for those rocking monolids who crave a more defined crease, double eyelid surgery can be a game-changer.
While we celebrate all eye shapes here, we understand the desire for a permanent solution. So, buckle up, because we’re about to share everything you need to know about this surgery in Singapore, from the different procedures available to the cost and potential risks.
- What Is Double Eyelid Surgery?
- Types of Double Eyelid Surgery Available in Singapore
- Who Should Consider Double Eyelid Surgery?
- What to Expect During Double Eyelid Surgery?
- How Much Downtime Is Required After Double Eyelid Surgery?
- Double Eyelid Surgery Aftercare
- Are the Results of Double Eyelid Surgery Permanent?
- Risks of Double Eyelid Surgery
- How Much Does Double Eyelid Surgery Cost?
- Where to Get Double Eyelid Surgery in Singapore?
What Is Double Eyelid Surgery?
Photo source: Pexels
Double eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that involves the process of surgically removing the muscles and tissues at the eyelids to create a crease.
This cosmetic surgery can be performed through incisional or non-incisional methods. However, the incisional procedure is often used to create a crease that is longer-lasting.
Some find that this crease accentuates their eyes, making them appear wider and more “awake” than before, without the need to use double eyelid tape which can be pretty frustrating.
Types of Double Eyelid Surgery Available in Singapore
As we mentioned, this procedure can be performed using either non-incisional or incisional methods, or in other words, stitching and cutting.
Non-Incisional Method: Stitching
Non-incisional double eyelid surgery. Photo source: williamlaomd/TikTok
Stitching is the non-incisional method that involves placing sutures in the eyelid through tiny holes, which helps to create a “bond” between the underlying deep tissue and the eyelid skin. The plastic surgeon uses these stitches to tighten the eyelid skin until a desired double eyelid crease is created.
This method doesn’t leave scars on the eyelid, which explains why it is preferred by certain patients.
Incisional Method: Cutting
Photo source: vforvonne/TikTok
For cutting, which is the incisional method, the plastic surgeon makes an incision along the eyelid to remove excess fat, muscle, and skin to create the desired crease. This procedure is known for creating more natural-looking double eyelids, and it also can be used to correct droopy eyelids or the shape of the eyes.
As this type is more invasive than stitching, it also requires more downtime. Arrange a consultation at an aesthetic clinic to discuss your desired results and possible cosmetic solutions with your plastic surgeon.
Who Should Consider Double Eyelid Surgery?
Korean celebrities with double eyelids. Photo source: kim_uieing49, luvlyzzy/Instagram
Naturally, those who desire to transform their monolids into long-lasting double eyelids can consider this surgery.
Besides turning monolids into double eyelids, this surgery can also be used to correct uneven eyelids – such as for a person who has double eyelids on one eye and single eyelids on the other – or to deepen an already-existing crease. Candidates also include those with multiple eyelid creases or those who have an uneven-looking crease on their eyes.
Below are some reasons for considering double eyelid surgery in Singapore.
- Single eyelids
- Double eyelids on one eye and single eyelid on the other
- Shallow double eyelid crease
- Multiple eyelid creases
- Uneven eyelid crease
What to Expect During Double Eyelid Surgery?
During the procedure, patients can expect the plastic surgeon to make specific measurements and markings on their eyelids to “design” the desired crease. Some aesthetic clinics even perform simulations to give the patient an idea of how their eyes would look after the procedure, before proceeding with the treatment.
For both stitching and cutting methods, the plastic surgeon will apply local anaesthesia to the eyelids, before proceeding with the cutting or stitching steps.
Do note that the results aren’t immediate! The patient’s eyelids remain swollen or bruised for the first one to four weeks after double eyelid surgery, depending on the procedure, and most patients note that their eyes look normal and natural only one to three months after the procedure.
How Much Downtime Is Required After Double Eyelid Surgery?
Photo source: Grace Myu
Depending on the type of surgery you’ve opted for, your post-surgery downtime will differ.
The non-incisional stitching procedure will require about five to 10 days of downtime, and the full results of the surgery will only be seen four to six weeks after the surgery.
For the incisional cutting method, patients will typically experience swelling or bruising for the first two to four weeks, and the results of the surgery will be fully revealed one to three months post-procedure. The scarring along the eyelids should also fade within two to three months.
During the recovery process, patients might also experience aching, light sensitivity, and dryness of their eyes, in addition to swelling and bruising. The plastic surgeon or clinic’s staff should advise you on how to take care of yourself and your eyelids after the procedure.
Double Eyelid Surgery Aftercare
Photo source: sangaychoden16/TikTok
Your plastic surgeon should advise you on aftercare tips when you’re done with your surgery.
In general, doctors would advise you to keep your eyelids clean, avoid rubbing or putting pressure on your eyes, and not wear contact lenses for the first few weeks. Other usual aftercare tips include the ones we’ve listed below.
- Avoid any strenuous activity or lifting of heavy objects
- Avoid bending over
- Keep your head above chest level as much as possible
- Use a cold compress on your eyes to reduce swelling
- Avoid activities that may dry out your eyes such as reading, watching television, and wearing contacts
- Wear dark sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays
Are the Results of Double Eyelid Surgery Permanent?
How her eyelids look one day after her double eyelid surgery (left) and one month after (right). Photo source: @emilyliao0/TikTok
For the non-incisional stitching method, results aren’t permanent but can last up to 10 years.
Natural wear-and-tear as well as external stressors like rubbing the eyes or washing the face can result in the fading of the defined crease line over time, which is why it’s best you avoid disturbing your eyes to maintain longer-lasting results.
On the other hand, the cutting method is regarded as the more permanent method that should give you give you double eyelids for your lifetime.
During the consultation, check with your plastic surgeon regarding the limitations of each double eyelid surgery method and its results. This way, you’ll be able to make an informed decision before going ahead with the procedure.
Risks of Double Eyelid Surgery
This surgery is generally considered a safe outpatient procedure, especially when performed by a qualified aesthetic surgeon in Singapore.
Still, possible complications can include infection at the site of surgery, which can be treated using prescribed medication, or bleeding, which would require the surgeon to perform a follow-up procedure to stop the bleeding. However, the latter is extremely rare.
There is a much higher cosmetic risk, however, when it comes to double eyelid surgery. For example, patients might experience asymmetrical eyelids or a crease that they don’t think flatters their eye shape after the surgery.
It’s important to have an experienced, qualified aesthetic doctor perform your surgery, as well as discuss the side effects and risks during the consultation stage.
How Much Does Double Eyelid Surgery Cost?
In Singapore, the cost of this surgery varies depending on the type of procedure. Non-incisional surgery typically ranges from about S$3,200 to S$4,200, which is generally less expensive compared to incisional surgery.
For a better breakthrough on the price and the procedure, we recommend you talk to your specialist for better analysis.
Additionally, make sure to inquire about any additional fees, such as post-operative care or follow-up visits, when discussing the total cost of the procedure.
Where to Get Double Eyelid Surgery in Singapore?
If you’re confident about getting this procedure done but aren’t sure where to go, we’ve rounded up some of the best clinics in Singapore that offer double eyelid surgery.
Eagle Eye Aesthetics & Surgery
Part of the Eagle Eye Group, Eagle Eye Aesthetics & Surgery (EEAS) is a one-stop centre for all things eye-related, including surgery and aesthetic treatments.
As an aesthetic and surgical clinic, EEAS also offers a suite of treatments to further enhance or maintain the results of surgery, such as fillers, Botox injections, and skin tightening treatments.
The aesthetic clinic is helmed by oculoplastic surgeon, Dr Stephanie Young, who has over 12 years of experience and a fellowship stint in South Korea. She also has her various techniques published in journals and books, and has been invited to write about complications and management of double eyelid surgery in an aesthetic plastic surgery journal.
What’s more, oculoplastic surgeons are fully trained in ophthalmology and boast a subspecialty fellowship in eyelid surgery for double eyelid surgery and several other procedures. With years of clinic experience combining the micro precision of ophthalmic surgery with the aesthetic concepts of Oculofacial plastic surgery, you can rest assured knowing you’ll be in good hands.
When it comes to double eyelid surgery, Dr Young offers three types of procedures – suture blepharoplasty, mini incision blepharoplasty, and traditional full incision blepharoplasty.
If you’re looking for a straightforward procedure that promises less downtime, the suture blepharoplasty would be perfect for you. However, there’s a higher chance of your crease fading with time. The suture double eyelid procedure may not be suitable for older individuals or those with puffy eyelids.
Compared to the suture method, an incisional blepharoplasty lasts longer, but you’ll have to be prepared for an extended downtime too. For suitable patients, Dr Young actually recommends the mini incision blepharoplasty, a method learnt during her fellowship in Seoul.
A mini incision blepharoplasty combines the best of both worlds – it promises less downtime compared to a full incisional, yet is more permanent than the suture method.
Polaris Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Led by consultant plastic surgeon and medical director Dr Adrian Ooi, Polaris Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery offers a range of eye surgeries, such as double eyelid surgery, ptosis correction, and scarless eye bag removal.
A highly experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr Ooi has a focus on aesthetic plastic surgery of the eyes and face, breast augmentation and reconstruction, head and neck surgery, lymphedema surgery, and extremity reconstruction. He is dedicated to delivering personalised treatment plans that embrace individual uniqueness.
As someone who values a “patient-first” approach, Dr Ooi is committed to using the most advanced plastic surgery techniques and technology to ensure a smooth and rapid recovery with minimal discomfort.
Having undergone rigorous training in various parts of the world and working alongside renowned plastic surgeons, Dr Ooi has accumulated an extraordinary wealth of experience and knowledge in a wide spectrum of aesthetic and reconstructive procedures.
Polaris Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery is all about achieving stunning, natural-looking results that stand the test of time. The doctors’ approach to double eyelid surgery is simple: he pairs modern aesthetic procedures with complementary treatments to create customised treatment plans that celebrate your unique features.
When you visit this clinic for your first consultation, your plastic surgeon will sit down with you to assess and advise the best approach for creating the double eyelids.
Woffles Wu Aesthetic Surgery & Laser Centre
Credit: Camden Medical
With an exceptional knack for recognising and enhancing beauty, symmetry, and equilibrium, Dr. Woffles Wu is one of the most sought-after surgeons in Singapore, particularly known for his expertise in double eyelid surgery.
Driven by his unwavering dedication to providing tailored treatment plans that celebrate the distinct characteristics of each individual, he always commits to ensure that all his patients are safe, satisfied, and brims with newfound confidence pre- and post treatments.
If you find yourself uncertain about the treatment, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment or consultation with Dr. Wu for a more comprehensive understanding of your options. He’ll be able to guide you through every step of the way.
Hong Plastic Surgery
Under the supervision of Dr. Hong Soo Wan, Hong Plastic Surgery has accumulated nearly 30 years of experience. The clinic specialises in a variety of plastic surgery procedures including facelifts, rhinoplasty, body contouring, breast aesthetics, liposuction, as well as double eyelid surgery.
For young adults with thin upper eyelids that lacks excess skin, can undergo the Scarless Double Eyelid Surgery option. In cases where there is excess fat on thick upper eyelids, this can be removed through a small additional incision during the same procedure.
These surgeries are typically performed under local anesthesia and have a duration ranging from 45 to 60 minutes. It is common to experience some swelling after the operation, which usually subsides within three days.
The clinic also cares about their patients well being and generally advised them to allocate a week for recovery before returning to work.
MH Plastic Surgery
Dr. Martin Huang is a highly trained, certified and accredited plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience in upper and lower eyelid surgery and breast augmentation.
His work has gained recognition and has been regularly invited to present at international plastic surgery meetings in Japan, Korea, and China, South East Asia and the Middle East. In simple terms, you can trust that you’re in the care of a globally recognised expert.
Shens Clinic
Specialising in Korean-trained plastic surgery, you can rest easy knowing that you’re in capable hands!
Dr. Shens has had years of experience through performing countless surgical procedures, for one, with his Scarless Double Eyelid Surgery ((suture blepharoplasty)) utilising a special technique he perfected over the years. This approach is particularly intended for those with no excess skin or fat on the upper eyelids.
According to their website, he has performed it over 1,000 individuals as of late, with a majority of them being immensely satisfied with the results.
Plus, the team at Shens Clinic has a group of selected nurses that have been trained to do the marking of the upper eyelids for more than 10 years. Sounds promising!
Colin Tham Plastic Surgery Clinic
Credit: Tally Press
Double eyelid surgery is a popular cosmetic procedure that many people opt for to enhance the size and attractiveness of their eyes and overall facial appearance.
At Colin Tham Plastic Surgery Clinic, they specialise in two methods for double eyelid surgery, the non-incisional “scarless” approach and the traditional incisional “cutting” method.
Both methods aim to give patients more vibrant and youthful-looking eyes without leaving noticeable marks.
Each surgical plan is customised to suit the individual patient, considering factors like the height and shape of the eyelid crease to ensure a harmonious look with the rest of the face.
As patients safety and satisfaction are their top priorities, the procedure will be performed in a certified surgical facility led by an eyelid surgeon and supported by a team of skilled nurses.
Wong’s Plastic Surgery Centre
Established in 1978, Wong’s Plastic Surgery Centre began with Dr. Wong Saw Yeen, a Colombo Plan Scholar who was a pioneer in the field of Plastic Surgery in Singapore. Now, the clinic is managed by a father and son duo with Dr. Marcus Wong.
Dr. Wong Saw Yeen and Dr. Marcus Wong collectively brings almost 60 years of professional experience to the table, offering a range of aesthetic treatments, including double eyelid surgery.
They’re well-versed in the non-incisional approach for this procedure that creates a long-lasting, natural fold that gives a natural and attractive look to your overall feature.
As the only father-son plastic surgeon duo in the region, they have a proven track record of undergoing thousands of successful cases. So, you’re definitely in the hands of highly skilled professionals.
Dream Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery
At Dream Plastic Surgery Singapore, they are committed to ethics, excellence, and the delivery of the finest quality services without compromising the safety and privacy of individuals.
Led by Dr. Vincent Yeow, the clinic caters to a range of aesthetic needs, and one noteworthy treatment is their double eyelid surgery. This procedure typically takes only 20 to 60 minutes, offering a relatively short time commitment.
Moreover, the post-surgery recovery time tends to be quick, and many patients find themselves returning to their regular activities within a week.
Prior to the surgery, Dr. Yeow ensures that his patients receive a comprehensive guide of all aspects of the procedure, covering both the technical details and the necessary post-operative care.
The Clifford Clinic
With over 40 years of collective experience in Dermatology, Aesthetics, and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the medical professionals at Clifford Clinic understand all of your concerns when it comes to aesthetic treatments.
Hence, they strive to provide you with the best treatments possible, including double eyelid surgery.
The Clinic uses a non-incisional technique which is the Double Suture and Twist (DST) technique to strategically stitch the eyelids.
This differs from incision double eyelid surgeries (Incisional Upper Blepharoplasty) as no major incisions are made on the skin. As a result, you can expect minimal downtime and almost no visible scars after the procedure.
SW1 Clinic
SW1 Clinic is another famous clinic in Singapore that provides aesthetic and plastic surgery procedures that help to improve your appearance.
SW1 caters to the best of both worlds, offering a unique combination of non-invasive cosmetic dermatology and cutting-edge plastic surgery. This distinctive blend of non-invasive and invasive aesthetics enables SW1 to meet all of their clients’ beauty needs without any form of limitations!
With a large team of surgeons at this clinic, SW1 strives to achieve the most pleasing aesthetic outcomes for each individual, utilising their extensive array of services and treatments that are not limited to the eyes, but also extend to the breasts, chin, face, nose, body, and lips.
Unlike other clinics, SW1 Clinic also offers scar revision treatments along with paediatric procedures like birthmark removals and ear moulding.
The clinic uses cutting edge technology, so you can be assured that they’ll do a good job for you if you choose to do your double eyelid surgery here!
TES Clinic for Face & Jaw
Dr. Seah Tian Ee, an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon, specialises in facial aesthetic procedures and the correction of jaw anomalies. In 2009, he received a scholarship through the Health Manpower Development Programme and underwent specific training in the United Kingdom for facial aesthetic surgery.
At his clinic, he offers double eyelid surgery using the non-incisional or stitch method. Additionally, he provides guidance on proper pre- and post-operative care for a speedy recovery.
For instance, he recommends using ice packs on your eyes for 10 minutes every hour on the night of the double eyelid surgery. The following day, apply ice packs to your eyes four to five times throughout the day.
After the procedure, you should gently lubricate your eyelids with saline and use prescribed eye drops or ointments. Bruising and swelling generally subside in 10 to 14 days, while scars from the surgical incisions may take months to fade.
Sweng Plastic Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery
Helmed by Dr. Ng Siew Weng, Sweng Plastic Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery is also one of the notable clinics around that does double eyelid surgery in Singapore.
His site gives a pretty comprehensive rundown as to how they conduct blepharoplasty, with there even being styles of eyelids you can pick from.
Oh, and did we mention that he also experienced intensive training in plastic surgery during his time in Korea? Trust us, you’ll be in good hands here.
AZATACA Plastic Surgery
AZATACA Plastic Surgery is helmed by three local plastic surgeons who have been awarded the Health Manpower Development Plan (HDMP) fellowship by the Ministry of Health (MOH).
The three founders, Dr Christopher Chui, Dr M0hamed Zulfikar Rasheed, and Dr Terence Goh, were surgeons at Singapore General Hospital, but they later founded AZATACA Plastic Surgery as they wanted to continue serving their patients in a comfortable environment.
While they each have their own specialisations, they all work together with a common goal and vision to give their patients the dedicated attention to help them achieve their dream aesthetics.
Featured image credit: Grace Myu, @kim_uieing49/Instagram
