These days, millennials with monolids are skipping the tape, glue and makeup to create the illusion of a double eyelid fold. Instead, they’re going straight for double eyelid surgery.
Double eyelid surgery has become one of the most common cosmetic procedures carried out locally, and it isn’t limited to those with monolids. People who wish to enhance their double eyelids, make them symmetrical or tighten sagging skin also opt for the surgery.
I sat down with Dr. Woffles Wu, a plastic surgeon in Singapore, to craft a guide for those who are considering a double eyelid surgery. From the methods to the prices, here’s what you need to make an informed decision.
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Dr. Wu gave me a crash course in the history of double eyelid surgery. He said, “The first method [originated from] Japan, where they placed threads into the eyelid to create a double eyelid fold.” That has formed the basis of one of two ways to perform a double eyelid surgery today, which is the stitching technique.
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What it is: The stitching method is a non-incisional procedure that involves the placement of 6 stitches in each eyelid. This creates a bond between the eyelid skin and the underlying deep tissue, forming a defined double eyelid crease that will last over 10 years.
Who it’s for: It is recommended for younger individuals who have not accumulated much fat or loose skin around the eyes. The stitching method is more popular simply by virtue of age, as those below 30 make up most of the demographic for double eyelid surgery.
Duration of procedure: 30 minutes.
Downtime: You may experience a bit of swelling for 3 to 4 days.
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What it is: With the cutting method, incisions will be made along the eyelid to remove thin slivers of skin and muscle to create a double eyelid. Removing skin at the canthus (inner corner of the eyes) can help to elongate the eye shape too. Compared to the stitching method, this procedure has a more permanent effect.
Who it’s for: It is recommended for those who have accumulated a bit more fat around the eyes and developed a brow droop. Those with hooded eyelids may want to consider the cutting technique too, as there is thicker skin present on the lids.
Duration of procedure: 60 minutes or more.
Downtime: You may experience some swelling for 7 to 10 days. After 4 months, the scars should have softened and healed.
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Before every procedure, Dr. Wu uses a metal tool with a curved tip to simulate what a double eyelid would look like on his patient. “I use this little device and place it against the skin (of the eyelid). When she opens her eyes, she can see where the double eyelid will be,” he explained.
While the patient is facing a mirror, Dr. Wu will “ask if she likes it higher or lower and make some adjustments. If it’s what she wants, we’ll go ahead and mark exactly where I want to put my sutures.” The same process applies to the cutting method.
A local anaesthetic will be injected into the upper eyelid before the surgery begins. A sedative may sometimes be administered at certain clinics too. “The only painful bit is when I’m giving the injections. Post-op is very comfortable,” Dr. Wu assured.
The cost of double eyelid surgery in Singapore can be anywhere between $3,000 to $6,000. Here’s a breakdown of the cost for both methods from Woffles Wu Aesthetic Surgery & Laser Centre.
1. Open / stitching method
Surgery: $4,950
Consultation fee: $180 to $200 per session
Medication: $850
Review after 1 week: $130 to $150
Eye cream: $890
2. Closed / cutting method
Surgery: $5,850
Consultation fee: $180 to $200 per session
Review after 1 week: $130 to $150
Removal of stitches: $150 to $250
Eye cream: $890
Dr. Wu explained that with the stitching method, “you have to get the suture to fix the skin through the underlying cartilage. A heavy amount of fat would constantly push the stitch until it gives way. When it breaks free, you could lose the fold.”
For those with eczema or psoriasis around the eye area, double eyelid surgery is not recommended. The same applies to those with fungal patches or sore eyes. “Double eyelid surgery is a cosmetic procedure. You don’t want to have it go wrong because you didn’t treat a condition,” Dr. Wu warned.
If your surgeon uses an unsuitable technique, you could end up with a botched surgery. Dr. Wu shared that those who have received unsuccessful surgeries from inexperienced surgeons often seek his help.
“Usually I ask for full disclosure. I need to know who did it, what was discussed beforehand, what was discussed after, and at which point was the patient unhappy with it,” he explained. This information would help him understand a patient better and rectify the mistakes quicker.
If you’re unsure about which of the 2 procedures to go for, consult with a surgeon who specialises in double eyelid surgery. He or she will be able to assess your eyelids to help you achieve the most natural-looking double eyelid folds.
We hope this guide has given you an insight on double eyelid surgery in Singapore, so you know what to expect before and after the procedure.
Cover image: Lau Keith/Unsplash (left) & Source (right)
This article was first published 19 December 2019 and last updated on 11 March 2024.
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