Double Eyelid Surgery at Santa Lucia Shanghai
Double eyelid surgery — known medically as Asian blepharoplasty — is the most commonly performed cosmetic procedure in East Asia. It creates a defined upper eyelid crease in eyes that naturally lack one, resulting in a more open, alert appearance. At Santa Lucia Plastic Surgery in Shanghai, double eyelid surgery is one of the clinic's highest-volume procedures, performed on both local and international patients.
This guide covers the two main techniques, how costs compare internationally, what recovery looks like day by day, and what results you can realistically expect.
Techniques: Incisional vs Non-Incisional
Non-Incisional (Suture) Method
The non-incisional method — also called the suture or buried suture technique — creates the eyelid crease by placing tiny sutures through the eyelid skin, anchoring it to the underlying tissue. No skin is removed.
Best suited for:
- Patients with thin eyelid skin and minimal excess fat
- Younger patients (typically under 35)
- Those wanting a less permanent option
- Patients seeking minimal downtime
Advantages:
- No visible scarring
- Faster recovery (5–7 days for most swelling to subside)
- Reversible in theory (though reversal is not always straightforward)
- Lower cost
Disadvantages:
- Results may fade over time (5–10 years in some cases)
- Not suitable for patients with excess skin or fat
- Higher revision rate compared to incisional method
Incisional Method
The incisional method involves making a precise cut along the planned crease line, removing excess skin and fat as needed, and suturing the skin to the underlying levator muscle to create a permanent crease.
Best suited for:
- Patients with excess upper eyelid skin (dermatochalasis)
- Older patients with heavier eyelids
- Those wanting permanent, long-lasting results
- Patients who have had failed non-incisional procedures
Advantages:
- Permanent results
- Allows removal of excess skin and fat
- More precise crease placement
- Better for complex or revision cases
Disadvantages:
- Longer recovery (2–4 weeks for visible swelling)
- Fine scar along the crease (usually well-hidden once healed)
- Higher cost
- Not reversible
Cost Comparison
| Location | Non-Incisional | Incisional |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Lucia, Shanghai | 00 – ,200 | ,500 – ,500 |
| South Korea | ,500 – ,500 | ,500 – ,000 |
| Thailand | 00 – ,500 | ,200 – ,500 |
| United States | ,500 – ,500 | ,500 – ,500 |
| United Kingdom | ,000 – ,000 | ,000 – ,000 |
Santa Lucia's pricing is competitive with Thailand and significantly lower than Korea and Western countries. The cost includes surgeon fee, anaesthesia (local with sedation for most cases), and facility charges.
Day-by-Day Recovery Timeline
Day 1 (Surgery Day)
The procedure takes 30–90 minutes under local anaesthesia with light sedation. You will be awake but relaxed. Immediately after surgery, the eyelids will be swollen and may feel tight. Cold compresses are applied. You will be discharged the same day with aftercare instructions and prescribed eye drops.
Day 2–3
Swelling peaks on day 2–3. The eyes may appear quite puffy and bruised. This is completely normal. Keep your head elevated, apply cold compresses, and avoid screens as much as possible. Avoid rubbing the eyes.
Day 4–5
Swelling begins to reduce noticeably. Bruising may shift downward toward the cheeks as it resolves. Most patients feel comfortable moving around their accommodation. Avoid strenuous activity and bending over.
Day 6–7
Sutures are typically removed at this stage (incisional method). The crease is visible but still swollen. Non-incisional patients often look presentable enough for casual outings with sunglasses.
Week 2
Most visible bruising has resolved. Swelling continues to decrease. Many patients return to desk work. Avoid contact lenses, eye makeup, and sun exposure.
Weeks 3–4
The eyelids look significantly more natural. Residual swelling is subtle and mainly noticeable to the patient. Most social activities can resume.
Months 1–3
Final results become clearer as all swelling resolves. The crease settles into its permanent position. Incisional scars fade to a fine, barely visible line within the crease.
What Results to Expect
Realistic expectations are essential. Double eyelid surgery creates a defined upper eyelid crease — it does not dramatically change the overall appearance of the face. The goal is a natural-looking result that enhances the eyes without appearing surgical.
Results vary based on:
- The technique used (incisional results are more defined and permanent)
- The surgeon's skill and aesthetic judgment
- Your natural eyelid anatomy
- How well you follow post-operative care instructions
Reviewing before-and-after photos of previous patients at Santa Lucia — particularly those with similar eye anatomy — is the best way to calibrate your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which technique does Santa Lucia recommend?
The recommendation depends on your anatomy. During consultation, the surgeon will assess your eyelid skin thickness, fat distribution, and the degree of excess skin to determine which technique will give the best long-term result for you specifically.
2. Will the results look natural?
When performed by an experienced surgeon, double eyelid surgery produces natural-looking results. The key is choosing an appropriate crease height and shape for your facial features. Overly high or dramatic creases can look unnatural — discuss your aesthetic goals clearly with your surgeon.
3. How long do results last?
Incisional results are considered permanent, though natural ageing will continue to affect the eyelids over time. Non-incisional results typically last 5–15 years, with some patients experiencing gradual fading of the crease.
4. Can I wear contact lenses after surgery?
Contact lenses should be avoided for at least 2 weeks post-surgery. Glasses are fine, though for incisional patients, avoid frames that rest on the nose bridge if rhinoplasty was also performed.
5. Is double eyelid surgery painful?
The procedure itself is performed under anaesthesia and is not painful. Post-operatively, patients typically experience tightness, mild soreness, and sensitivity rather than sharp pain. This is well-managed with prescribed pain relief and usually resolves within a few days.
Always consult a qualified medical professional before making healthcare decisions. This article is for informational purposes only.
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