Eyelid Surgery: 5 Myths And Facts Explained

Eyelid surgery is a common cosmetic procedure that removes tissue from around the eyes, giving you a more open-eyed look. Many people find big eyes attractive and it can also reduce the signs of aging. Unfortunately, there are lots of things about this type of surgery that are not well understood by most people. Here are the biggest myths about the procedure and the facts behind them.

Myth - Only East Asians Have Epicanthic Folds

The truth is that many people all over the world have epicanthic folds around their eyes. They're most present among East Asians - those of Japanese, Korean, Chinese or southeast Asian descent - but can also be found among South Asians, Middle Eastern people, Africans and even Caucasians. Also, all Asians don't have the same type of crease or fold. There can be considerable variation even in one family. For example, your father may have single folds while you have double.

Myth - People Get Eyelid Surgery to Look Less "Asian."

One of the biggest myths about blepharoplasty is that Asian people get it done to look more Western. This couldn't be farther from the truth. Surgery will remove tissue from around the eyes to give them a more open look. Your eyes are the most striking characteristic of your face, so this slight change makes a huge difference. Some people get it done because their eyes are different - one has a single and the other a double fold. The procedure can also make you look younger and more alert.

Myth - The Procedure Will Make You Look Less Asian

As mentioned above, there is a lot of variety in the shape of Asian people's eyes. Some have naturally more open eyes than others, and there is much variation. Getting this procedure done will not make an Asian person look any less Asian; it will simply make their eyes bigger and more open.

Myth - Eyelid Surgery Should Only Be Done by an Asian Doctor

Any skilled physician with experience in cosmetic surgeries can perform the procedure effectively. There's absolutely no reason why you need an Asian doctor to do it. We all know that you don't need a male doctor if you're male, or a female doctor if you're female. This is just another silly misconception. The important thing to look for in a doctor is experience performing the operation.

Myth - Eyelid Surgery Can Get Rid of Wrinkles and Crow's Feet

Crow's feet and wrinkles around the eyes are caused by constant muscle motions such as smiling. Over many years of making the same movements, these lines form. This type of surgery will removes fat and tighten up the tissue around the eyes. It may have the effect of reducing these wrinkles somewhat, but you shouldn't expect too much change. As long as you continue smiling and making facial expressions, wrinkles and lines will continue to appear.

If you're thinking about eyelid surgery, talk to a plastic surgeon at a free consultation and discuss it with them. Tell them what you'd like done and listen to their recommendations. The consultation is your opportunity to find out everything you need to know about the procedure.