Double Eyelid To Monolid?

Question

So here's the "big deal", I'm half asian, and I got a monolid on my right eye and a kinda double eyelid on my left eye, not as deep as in caucasian eyes. It makes me really uncomfortable, is there any way I can get my left eye a monolid just like the other? I'm not talking about epicanthal folds, I already got them in both eyes. It's just the eyelid. I wouldn't want to get a double lid to repair it because, thank God, different from many of my asian friends I love my monolids. Thanks, in advance

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

It is essentially impossible to unfold an eyelid.  Making both eyelids have a symmetric double fold is possible.  Undoing the fold in the left upper eyelid cannot be accomplished.  You may read about surgeons transplanting fat pearls or using fillers to accomplish this.  Occasionally I am shown an amazing result that claims to have accomplished this and I think that for a very rare situation, it may occur but generally the results are disappointing and the effort further damages the aesthetics of the eyelid.  So please be oh so careful about what you look for.

Thomas Fiala, MD, FACS, FRCSC · Answer

It's not very predictable, to try and create a "mono-lid" from a double lid.  The Oriental eye has a number of anatomic features that are different than the typical Caucasian eyelid.  The lid crease forms because fibers of the orbicularis muscle insert into the skin.  You couldn't just cut this area out, since scar tissue would re-form the crease.  The Oriental lid also has a little more fat in that area.  Fat grafts or injections could look lumpy under that thin skin. I would advise you to leave it alone - consider it part of the uniqueness of you.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It is certainly possible to surgically modify your current supratarsal fold lower on the eyelid to try to achieve a mono Asian lid.
However complete symmetry is going to be very difficult if at all possible because the mono lid on your right side most likely has a different amount and distribution of fat which is contributing to the appearance of the mono fold on your right side.
Photographs would help evaluate whether this is possible for you.
If you do choose to see a surgeon be certain that you see a plastic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or a board-certified ophthalmologist who has had training in oculoplastic surgery and/or experienced in operating on Asian eyelids.

Double Eyelid To Monolid?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Double Eyelid To Monolid?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.