Belpharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that can improve the appearance of the upper and lower eyelids. There are also procedures that can help define or create a crease in the area, which is commonly requested among patients with an Asian background.

As we age and our skin looses elasticity, fat collects and skin begins to sag in unappealing ways. This can lead to a tired look, which is what eyelid surgery patients most often complain about. Creams and lotions are not effective as the problem lies within the body's tissue and weak muscle. Asian patients find that the creased eyelids help draw more attention to their eyes and greatly enhance their natural beauty.

This surgery is commonly done for cosmetic purposes; however, it is also used to remove excess skin or fat that may obscure vision or cause other discomfort. Regardless if done for cosmetic or functional reasons, upper eyelid surgery is performed in a similar manner.

A plastic surgeon will make small incisions along the crease of the upper eyelid, carefully blending them into the natural contours of the body for the best possible camouflage. Any excess tissue that is hanging or loose will be excised and the remaining skin will be repositioned in a more aesthetically pleasing location.

For lower eyelid surgical procedure, the focus is on tightening the loose muscle and remove fatty deposits that often develop in the area. As with upper eyelid surgery, incisions are carefully placed along natural creases. Fat and skin are either removed or repositioned and then the incision is closed.

This type of surgery for Asian patients seeking "double" eyelids is similar to the upper surgical procedure. The main difference between these two procedures is that the surgical treatment must carefully close the incision in order to create the look of an eyelid crease.

Fat and tissue will be removed or repositioned as necessary, but it is the incision that will determine the outcome. There are many different styles and shapes of creases that are possible to achieve.

Recovery from the surgery varies by individual, but expects to take two weeks off of work and before returning to other regular activities. Although discomfort is fairly mild, you may be swollen which can make your vision somewhat obscured for a short period. There will be some bruising, swelling, and tenderness following surgery.

Risks and complications include bleeding, infection, nerve damage, unsatisfying aesthetic results, and in rare cases, loss of vision. Discuss all of these in depth with your plastic surgeon before choosing to undergo the procedure.

Eyelid surgery can leave you with a more youthful, bright and awake looking face. And since eyelid l procedure provides more subtle than dramatic results, most people will not be able to notice that you have had any work done.