Is Asian Eyelid Surgery Painful?

Asian eyelid surgery is generally very well tolerated, and most patients report minimal discomfort rather than true pain. Local anesthesia keeps patients comfortable during the procedure, and postoperative sensations are described as tightness, pressure, or mild soreness. Any discomfort is short-lived and easily managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication, along with cold compresses and rest.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Patients have an initial consultation, a pre-surgical visit, the day of surgery, and at least one follow-up visit for stitch removal and healing evaluation. Additional follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor crease formation, swelling resolution, and eyelid symmetry as healing progresses. These visits ensure optimal long-term results and patient satisfaction.

How Long Until I See the Results?

Early results become apparent as swelling subsides, typically within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. However, the eyelid crease continues to soften and settle over several months as healing completes. Final results reflect a natural-appearing crease that blends seamlessly with the patient’s unique eyelid anatomy and facial features.

Can I Combine Asian Eyelid Surgery with Other Procedures?

Yes, Asian eyelid surgery is frequently combined with procedures such as upper or lower eyelid surgery , ptosis repair , or brow lifts to improve balance and symmetry. Combining procedures can reduce overall recovery time while achieving more in-depth results. The surgical team carefully evaluates eyelid structure and functional needs to ensure the combination treatment is safe and appropriate.

What Are the Risks Associated with Asian Eyelid Surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, risks may include swelling, bruising, infection, asymmetry, or temporary changes in sensation. Rare complications can include crease irregularity, delayed healing, or the need for revision surgery. These risks are minimized through expert surgical technique, careful preoperative planning, and close postoperative follow-up.

Asian Eyelid Surgery

Roslyn Heights, NY

Introduction

Asian Eyelid Surgery Services Offered in Long Island and Roslyn Heights, NY

Asian eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), also commonly referred to as double eyelid surgery, is designed to create an upper eyelid crease, converting a monolid to a double eyelid. This procedure can enhance eyelid definition while preserving natural, culturally appropriate aesthetics for patients of Asian descent. In some cases, additional procedures, such as epicanthoplasty to lengthen the inner or outer canthal folds, may be performed at the same time.

Dr. Susie Rhee specializes in Asian eyelid surgery (double eyelid surgery) and has completed advanced training in Seoul, South Korea, with a specific focus on Asian eyelid anatomy and surgical techniques.

We are located in Roslyn Heights, Long Island, New York. Our team at Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island (PSAOLI) proudly treats patients from Queens and throughout Long Island, including Roslyn, Roslyn Heights, Garden City, and Manhasset, NY.

Before & After Gallery

before & After Results

What is Asian Eyelid Surgery?

Double eyelid surgery, or “Asian blepharoplasty,” results in larger, more symmetric, almond-shaped eyes. The distance between your upper lash line and the new eyelid crease is matched specifically to your preference.

People of different descent prefer either smaller or larger eyelids. Skin and fat removal may be part of this procedure.

We typically perform this procedure in our office under local anesthesia. Patients go home after the procedure with detailed post-operative care instructions.

Minimally Invasive Asian Eyelid Surgery

Minimally invasive Asian eyelid surgery is an option for select patients who desire crease formation without significant tissue removal. This technique often uses small sutures to create a crease rather than a full incision, resulting in shorter recovery time and minimal scarring. It is best suited for patients with good skin elasticity and minimal excess fat.

Good Candidates for Asian Double Eyelid Surgery

Your eyelids have excess skin that obstructs your vision.
Your eyelids look puffy and have excess fat.
Unhappy with the shape and size of your eyelids.
Desire to convert a monolid to a double eyelid.

What Are the Benefits of Asian Eyelid Surgery?

Asian eyelid surgery offers both aesthetic and functional benefits. Many patients notice their eyes appear more open, defined, and symmetrical, which can enhance facial balance and overall expression. The newly created crease allows makeup to apply more easily and creates a brighter, more refreshed appearance.

Importantly, the procedure is designed to respect cultural aesthetics. Rather than dramatically altering eye shape, Asian eyelid surgery enhances natural features in a subtle, refined way. When performed correctly, results look effortless and age gracefully.

A blonde woman in a black blazer smiles warmly as she hands a white clipboard over a reception desk to a patient.

What’s the First Step?

The first step toward Asian eyelid surgery is a comprehensive consultation at our Queens, NY office. During this visit, patients discuss their goals, cultural preferences, and concerns in detail. Precise measurements of eyelid anatomy are taken to plan crease height and shape. Patients appreciate our thoughtful, individualized approach that emphasizes communication and education. The consultation ensures the surgical plan aligns with the patient’s vision and comfort level before proceeding.

What to Expect on the Day of Asian Eyelid Surgery

Asian eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is performed under local anesthesia, keeping patients awake but comfortable. The procedure typically lasts 1–2 hours, depending on technique and whether additional procedures are included. Patients return home the same day with full postoperative guidance.

Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Asian Eyelid Surgery Care

We perform this procedure in the office under local anesthesia.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Pain medication is prescribed.
There is minimal swelling after the surgery. Most swelling occurs about 3 days after surgery and then gradually disappears.
Stitches are removed approximately 5-7 days after surgery.
There may be some bruising, which usually resolves in a few days.
Depending on the amount of swelling, you may drive the following day and return to work.
You will typically be socially presentable by 2 weeks.

How Much Does Asian Eyelid Surgery Cost in Long Island, NY?

The cost of Asian eyelid surgery in Queens and Long Island varies based on the surgical technique used, the complexity of the case, and whether additional procedures are performed. Because eyelid anatomy and goals differ significantly from patient to patient, pricing is determined after an in-person consultation. Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island provides transparent pricing and will review all costs in detail prior to surgery. Financing options may be available to help make treatment accessible.

Why Choose Us?

Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island is trusted for its expertise in culturally sensitive eyelid surgery. Dr. Susie Rhee brings advanced training from Seoul, South Korea, with a deep understanding of Asian eyelid anatomy and aesthetic preferences. Her approach emphasizes precision, balance, and natural results. Patients also benefit from the collaborative expertise of Sotirios Papafragkou, whose meticulous surgical standards and patient-first philosophy guide the practice. Together, the team offers thoughtful, individualized care for patients from Queens and beyond.

Asian Eyelid Surgery FAQ’S

Asian eyelid surgery is generally very well tolerated, and most patients report minimal discomfort rather than true pain. Local anesthesia keeps patients comfortable during the procedure, and postoperative sensations are described as tightness, pressure, or mild soreness. Any discomfort is short-lived and easily managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication, along with cold compresses and rest.
Patients have an initial consultation, a pre-surgical visit, the day of surgery, and at least one follow-up visit for stitch removal and healing evaluation. Additional follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor crease formation, swelling resolution, and eyelid symmetry as healing progresses. These visits ensure optimal long-term results and patient satisfaction.
Yes, Asian eyelid surgery is frequently combined with procedures such as upper or lower eyelid surgery, ptosis repair, or brow lifts to improve balance and symmetry. Combining procedures can reduce overall recovery time while achieving more in-depth results. The surgical team carefully evaluates eyelid structure and functional needs to ensure the combination treatment is safe and appropriate.
As with any surgical procedure, risks may include swelling, bruising, infection, asymmetry, or temporary changes in sensation. Rare complications can include crease irregularity, delayed healing, or the need for revision surgery. These risks are minimized through expert surgical technique, careful preoperative planning, and close postoperative follow-up.

Schedule a Consultation

Personalized Care from Two Dedicated Surgeons

If you are considering Asian eyelid surgery and want expert care that respects your natural features, scheduling a consultation is the next step. Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island proudly welcomes patients from Queens as well as Roslyn, Roslyn Heights, Garden City, and Manhasset. Consultations can be scheduled by calling the office or using the online form.

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