logo

Call Us

+65 6778 8648
contact us

Caucasian Eyelid Surgery

Caucasian eyelid surgery refines the upper eyelids by addressing excess skin, sagging, and puffiness while maintaining natural contours. The procedure enhances eye definition and restores a refreshed appearance, whether for aesthetic enhancement or functional concerns such as drooping eyelids affecting vision. Each treatment is tailored to individual facial structure and goals, ensuring results that blend seamlessly with natural features.

doctor img
Dr Terence Goh

MBBS

MMed

MRCS

FAMS

caucasian-eyelid caucasian-eyelid
Image Macro shot authentic portrait of woman with natural skin Image Macro shot authentic portrait of woman with natural skin

Who is a Suitable Candidate?

Caucasian eyelid surgery is suited for those seeking to:

  • Refine a hooded or heavy eyelid appearance
  • Reduce puffiness and adjust fat distribution for a balanced contour
  • Restore a well-defined crease while maintaining natural expressions
  • Address drooping caused by ptosis or ageing
  • Enhance overall eye definition to complement facial features.

During your consultation, the eyelid’s shape, skin elasticity, and overall facial balance are assessed to determine the most suitable approach.

Indications and Benefits

Caucasian eyelid surgery refines the upper eyelids by reducing excess skin, adjusting fat distribution, and lifting drooping areas, creating a more defined and balanced appearance.

  • Hooded or Heavy Eyelids

    Excess skin can create a hooded effect, making the eyes look tired or reducing peripheral vision. Removing this skin refines the eyelid contour, improving both visibility and definition.

  • Drooping Eyelids

    Weak or stretched eyelid muscles can lead to drooping, affecting symmetry and sometimes impairing vision. Adjusting the eyelid position restores balance and an alert expression.

  • Puffiness or Fullness

    Fat deposits in the upper eyelids can cause swelling or heaviness. Adjusting fat distribution helps smooth and define the eyelid without causing hollowing.

  • Ageing-Related Changes

    Over time, the eyelid skin loses elasticity, leading to sagging. An upper eyelid lift refreshes the eyes while maintaining a natural look.

  • Eyelid Asymmetry

    Uneven creases or differences in eyelid height can affect facial balance. Surgery refines the shape for a more symmetrical appearance.

Eyelid Crease Refinement in Caucasian Eyelid Surgery

Unlike Asian eyelid surgery, where a crease may be created or reshaped, most Caucasian eyelids naturally have a well-defined fold. This procedure focuses on subtle refinements to enhance the existing crease while ensuring it complements the brow position and eye shape.

  • Crease refinement helps maintain a balanced, natural look without excessive skin removal or artificial shaping
  • Adjustments enhance eye definition while preserving the eyelid’s natural contours
  • The ideal crease height varies for each individual, with refinements tailored for subtle enhancement rather than dramatic change

Surgical Techniques

Incisional Blepharoplasty

This technique involves making an incision along the natural eyelid crease to remove excess skin, adjust underlying tissues, and reposition fat if necessary. It is effective for addressing hooded eyelids, restoring a well-defined crease, and achieving long-lasting definition. The incision is carefully placed within the natural fold to ensure minimal visibility once healed.

Ptosis Correction (If Required)

For individuals experiencing significant eyelid drooping due to weakened or stretched levator muscles, ptosis correction may be performed alongside blepharoplasty. This involves tightening or repositioning the levator muscle to restore proper eyelid height, improving both symmetry and field of vision.

Fat Repositioning

Rather than simply removing fat deposits, which can lead to a hollow appearance, modern techniques focus on redistributing fat within the upper eyelid. This approach preserves a natural fullness while smoothing contour irregularities, helping to maintain a youthful and balanced look.

Combination with Brow Lift (If Needed)

In cases where brow sagging contributes to eyelid heaviness, a brow lift may be performed alongside eyelid surgery. Elevating the brow can enhance overall eye definition, prevent excessive skin removal from the eyelids, and create a more open, refreshed appearance.

Ready for Natural Looking Results?

Consult our MOH-accredited plastic surgeon for a personalised treatment plan.

Make an Enquiry
Image Azataca CTA Ptosis M

Preparing for Caucasian Eyelid Surgery

Consultation

A detailed consultation is carried out to discuss personal goals and any concerns related to eyelid appearance or function. Visual simulations may be used to help explore potential outcomes, allowing for a customised surgical approach that suits individual facial features.

Medical Review

A review of medical history, previous procedures, and current medications helps determine suitability for surgery. Any existing eye conditions, allergies, or other health considerations are taken into account to tailor the treatment plan.

Pre-Surgical Guidelines

Certain medications and supplements that may affect healing, such as aspirin or herbal remedies, should be paused. Alcohol intake should be limited, and smoking is best avoided for at least two weeks to support recovery. Avoid wearing contact lenses for three days before the procedure, and on the day of surgery, all eye makeup, false lashes, and eyelid tape should be removed.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Anaesthesia Administration

Local anaesthesia with or without light sedation is used to minimise discomfort during the procedure. A mild sensation may be felt during the initial injection, but the area quickly becomes numb, allowing the surgery to proceed smoothly.

2. Marking the Eyelids

Reference points are carefully marked along the natural crease to guide incision placement. These markings are based on individual eyelid structure and facial proportions, ensuring that any adjustments complement natural contours.

3. Surgical Technique

For Caucasian eyelid surgery, incisional blepharoplasty is commonly performed to refine the eyelid crease, remove excess skin, and reposition or adjust fat to maintain a smooth contour. If ptosis correction is needed, the levator muscle is adjusted to improve eyelid height. In some cases, a brow lift may be incorporated to enhance overall eyelid definition.

4. Closure and Dressing

Once adjustments are completed, incisions are carefully closed with fine sutures, following the natural crease to minimise visibility. A light dressing or ointment is applied to support healing, and detailed aftercare instructions are provided to promote a smooth recovery.

Post-Surgical Care and Recovery

Initial Recovery

Mild soreness, tightness, and swelling are expected in the first few days after surgery, with swelling typically peaking between 48 and 72 hours. Cold compresses can be applied during this period to help reduce swelling. The eyelids should be gently cleaned with gauze and sterile saline three times a day, and antibiotic ointment should be applied to the incision line to support healing. Any discomfort can be managed with prescribed pain relievers.

Activity Restrictions

To support recovery, smoking, alcohol consumption, and strenuous activities should be avoided for at least two weeks. Eye makeup and contact lenses should not be used during this time, and any rubbing or pressure on the eyes should be minimised. Limit activities that strain the eyes, such as prolonged screen use, during early recovery.

Recovery Timeline

Swelling and bruising generally improve within one to two weeks. Sutures are usually removed after five to seven days, depending on healing progress. Most daily activities can be resumed after two weeks, while the final appearance of the eyelids settles over two to three months as residual swelling fully resolves.

Potential Risks and Considerations

Temporary swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are expected after surgery. While rare, complications such as bleeding, infection, or visible scarring can occur, though incisions are placed to minimise this. Some patients may experience dry eyes, irritation, or slight asymmetry as swelling subsides. Anaesthesia reactions are uncommon and closely monitored. Most side effects improve with time and proper aftercare.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do the results last?

Upper eyelid surgery provides long-lasting improvements, with most patients enjoying the benefits for 10 to 15 years or more. However, the natural ageing process continues, which may eventually lead to some changes in eyelid appearance. Proper skin care, sun protection, and a healthy lifestyle help maintain long-lasting results.

Is there a risk of looking ‘overdone’ or unnatural?

The goal of surgery is to enhance the eyelids while maintaining a natural balance with facial features. Overcorrection, which can result in a “hollowed” or overly lifted appearance, is avoided by using techniques that preserve natural eyelid contours.

What if I am dissatisfied with my results?

Initial swelling and healing can temporarily affect how the eyelids look. Most concerns resolve as swelling subsides over a few months. If adjustments are still desired after the full healing period (typically six months), a minor revision can be considered.

Does upper eyelid surgery affect eyebrow position?

Upper eyelid surgery focuses on the eyelids without altering brow position. However, if brow sagging contributes to heaviness, a brow lift may be recommended for a more balanced look. This will be assessed during your consultation.

Can I choose the height of my eyelid crease?

Yes, the crease height can be customised based on your anatomy, facial proportions, and preferences. During your consultation, different options will be discussed, and a simulation may help visualise the outcome for a natural, well-integrated appearance.

Image Frame 1854

Dr Terence Goh

Choosing to combine the intricate skills of microsurgery with aesthetic surgery, Dr Goh specialises in gynaecomastia, surgery of the Asian face, particularly Asian eyelid surgery and rhinoplasty.

Blending the precision of microsurgery with the artistry of aesthetic surgery, Dr Goh has a special interest in gynaecomastia, facial procedures, including ptosis and eyelid surgery, as well as rhinoplasty.

He also offers a full range of body contouring procedures such as mummy makeovers, breast augmentation, liposuction, and body sculpting—designed to help patients feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin.

Beyond aesthetics, Dr Goh remains active in reconstructive microsurgery, with expertise in breast reconstruction, head and neck reconstruction, and lower limb salvage—restoring both form and function where it’s needed most.

  • Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, National University of Singapore
  • Master of Medicine, National University of Singapore
  • Member of the Royal College of Surgeons
  • Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore (Plastic Surgery)
Read Full Bio

Make an Enquiry

Got a Question? Fill up the form and we will get back to you shortly.

    For faster enquiry, call us!+65 6778 8648

    Azataca-AZATACA Plastic Surgery (NOVENA)

    AZATACA Plastic Surgery (NOVENA)

    Royal Square Medical Centre
    101 Irrawaddy Rd, #14-09
    Singapore 329565
    Mon – Fri 9:00am – 6:00pm
    Sat 9:00am – 1:00pm
    Sun & PH Closed
    +6567788648
    AZATACA Plastic Surgery (ORCHARD)

    AZATACA Plastic Surgery (GLENEAGLES)

    Gleneagles Medical Centre
    6 Napier Road #03-17
    Singapore 258499
    Mon – Fri 9:00am – 5:00pm
    Sat 9:00am – 1:00pm
    Sun & PH Closed
    +6567671648