Introduction

In the vibrant city of New York, the demand for Korean - style single - eyelid surgery, also known as Asian blepharoplasty, has been on the rise. This cosmetic procedure is highly sought after by many individuals of Asian descent who wish to create a double eyelid or enhance the appearance of their eyes. In this article, we will explore the top five new hospitals in New York City for this type of surgery, along with an in - depth understanding of Asian eyelid surgery, its procedures, and considerations.

Understanding Asian Eyelid Surgery

What is Asian Eyelid Surgery?

Asian eyelid surgery, or Asian blepharoplasty, is a popular cosmetic surgery in America and Asia. Approximately half of Asian men and women are born with a “single eyelid,” which means their upper eyelids do not have a crease. The goal of this surgery is to create a double eyelid by forming a crease that shows when the eyes are open but not closed. This procedure alters the shape and height of the eyelid to achieve optimal results based on the individual's goals (Source: https://www.nycsurgical.com/cosmetic - surgery - new - york - city/face/asian - eyelid/).

How is Asian Blepharoplasty Done?

An incision is made along the upper eyelid, which can be hidden within the created crease. Minimal to moderate excess skin is removed, and some fatty tissue may also be taken out to allow the surgeon to create a fold parallel to the eyelash line. This technique offers a natural - looking double crease that retains the patient's Asian appearance while providing a wider eyelid opening. If the brows are sagging due to age or genetics, a brow lift may be suggested to remove more skin tissue (Source: https://www.nycsurgical.com/cosmetic - surgery - new - york - city/face/asian - eyelid/).

Asian vs. Caucasian Eyelids

Asian and Caucasian eyelids differ in the eyelid crease position, height, shape, and length. Asian eyelid creases begin near the eyelashes and typically extend upward as the crease gets further from the nose. The fold becomes larger until the midpoint of the pupil and is parallel to the eyelash line. Caucasian eyelids can be up to 20 percent larger or wider and instead of running parallel to the eyelash line, form a reversed “u” shape (Source: https://www.nycsurgical.com/cosmetic - surgery - new - york - city/face/asian - eyelid/).

The Top Five New Hospitals for Korean - Style Single - Eyelid Surgery in New York City

1. Manhattan Surgical Care

Manhattan Surgical Care offers Asian eyelid surgery at their New York office. Their cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Pakeman, has performed many double eyelid surgeries and can tailor the procedure to meet the patient's aesthetic goals while maintaining their Asian appearance. The surgery creates a natural - looking double crease and is typically done on an outpatient basis. Patients can expect to see their ideal results settle in over the span of one to two months. The office also offers a virtual consultation for out - of - state or international patients and can discuss financing options. In some cases, insurance may cover the cost of Asian blepharoplasty if the excess skin on the upper eyelid impairs vision (Source: https://www.nycsurgical.com/cosmetic - surgery - new - york - city/face/asian - eyelid/).

2. Dr. William Lao's Plastic Surgery Practice

Located on 5th Avenue in New York City, Dr. William Lao's practice is well - known for Asian double eyelid surgery. Dr. Lao is a board - certified plastic surgeon who has performed numerous such surgeries for patients in Manhattan. He focuses on providing beautiful, natural - looking results. Good candidates for this surgery should be in good overall health, prefer the appearance of a double eyelid, and have realistic expectations. The surgery can be performed under general or local anesthesia with sedation. After the procedure, sutures need to remain in place for around four to six days, and some mild swelling and bruising are normal. On average, it takes around one week to recover from surgery, though strenuous activity should be avoided for a few more weeks. The average cost of Asian eyelid surgery here typically starts at $3,000 and can go up to around $8,000, depending on various factors (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).

3. Dr. Yael Halaas' Practice

Dr. Yael Halaas, a leading female facial plastic surgeon in the Westchester and NYC area, is double - board - certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Her specialized technique for Asian eyelid surgery has been recognized by Digital Journal. There are three types of Asian eyelid surgery available at her practice: full incision, partial incision, and double suture and twist. The type of surgery depends on the patient's anatomy, comfort, and personal aesthetic goals. Each technique is designed to look and function naturally. Recovery times and post - operative experiences vary depending on the chosen technique. Dr. Halaas works closely with each patient to understand their desires and customize the treatment to fit their budget (Source: https://www.drhalaas.com/eyes/asian - eyelid - surgery/).

4. Dr. Richard Westreich's Practice

Dr. Richard Westreich is a renowned board - certified facial plastic surgeon specializing in Asian eyelid surgery in NYC. He offers different surgical techniques for Asian double eyelid surgery, including full incision, partial incision, and the suture technique. The choice of technique depends on the patient's individual eyelid anatomy and aesthetic goals. In addition to double eyelid surgery, he also performs revision Asian eyelid surgery, Asian ptosis surgery, and epicanthoplasty. Dr. Westreich performs the surgeries at his office in New York City or a nearby accredited surgical suite. Patients should let the doctor know of any serious medical issues and medications they are taking before the surgery. The recovery period depends on the surgical method, but it can take up to six months for the eyes to fully heal and settle into their new shape (Source: https://www.newfaceny.com/eye/asian - eyelid - surgery/).

5. Dr. Joel Kopelman's Practice

Dr. Joel Kopelman, an oculoplastic surgeon with 35 years of experience, specializes in Asian blepharoplasty. He is able to create a natural - looking crease by placing the surgical incision in the anatomically correct location and gently removing overhanging upper eyelid skin and any bulging fat in the lids. There are 6 different types of Asian blepharoplasty, including monolid eyelid crease, tapered eyelid crease, multiple eyelid creases, parallel eyelid crease, hooded eyelid crease, and lateral flare crease. Dr. Kopelman understands the diverse ethnic anatomic characteristics within the Asian community and tailors his surgical techniques to each individual patient. He also addresses common concerns such as asymmetric eyelid creases, recovery time, lower eyelid bags, and ptosis (Source: https://drkopelman.com/asian - eyelid - surgery - nyc/).

Benefits of Asian Eyelid Surgery

• Enhanced Appearance: Creating a double eyelid can add a skin fold to the upper eyelid, giving the eyes a more open and alert look. It can also address asymmetry of the eyelids and provide a more youthful appearance (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Vision Improvement: In some cases, where excess skin on the upper eyelid is impairing vision, Asian eyelid surgery can correct this issue (Source: https://www.nycsurgical.com/cosmetic - surgery - new - york - city/face/asian - eyelid/; https://www.mountsinai.org/care/surgery/services/plastic - surgery/aesthetic/facial/eyelid - surgery).
• Relief from Discomfort: It can relieve trichiasis, which is eye discomfort associated with the inward turning of the lashes (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).

Choosing the Right Surgeon

When considering Asian eyelid surgery, it is crucial to choose the right surgeon. The procedure for Asian blepharoplasty is very delicate and requires skill, an artistic eye, and intimate knowledge of the anatomy of the Asian eye. Here are some factors to consider:

• Experience and Expertise: Look for a surgeon who has extensive experience in performing Asian eyelid surgeries. For example, Dr. Pakeman at Manhattan Surgical Care and Dr. William Lao, who have both performed numerous double eyelid surgeries, are likely to have a better understanding of the nuances of the procedure (Source: https://www.nycsurgical.com/cosmetic - surgery - new - york - city/face/asian - eyelid/; https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Board Certification: Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified. Dr. Yael Halaas is double - board - certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, which is a sign of her professional competence (Source: https://www.drhalaas.com/eyes/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Reputation: Read patient reviews and testimonials. For instance, Dr. Lao has received many positive reviews from patients who are satisfied with their results and his care (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Communication: A good surgeon should be able to communicate effectively with the patient, understand their aesthetic goals, and provide honest and realistic advice. Dr. Richard Westreich offers an in - depth consultation process to allow patients to express their wishes (Source: https://www.newfaceny.com/eye/asian - eyelid - surgery/).

Pre - operative and Post - operative Considerations

Pre - operative

• Medical Evaluation: Inform the surgeon of any serious medical issues, such as diabetes, hypertension, and lung or heart conditions. Also, disclose all medications you are taking, including blood thinners and vitamin supplements (Source: https://www.newfaceny.com/eye/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Lifestyle Changes: Stop smoking at least several weeks before surgery to maximize the chances of successful treatment and hasten the recovery period (Source: https://www.newfaceny.com/eye/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Pre - operative Treatments: In some cases, pre - operative treatments like chemical peel, fraxel, or laser may be recommended to enhance the postoperative results. For example, maximizing skin “fitness” using an at - home regimen that usually incorporates a retinol or retin - a is encouraged (Source: https://drkopelman.com/asian - eyelid - surgery - nyc/).

Post - operative

• Swelling and Bruising: Mild to moderate swelling and bruising are normal after the surgery. Elevating the head and applying an ice pack can help manage the swelling. The extent and duration of swelling and bruising depend on the surgical technique used and the individual's healing ability. For example, Asian patients tend to swell to a greater extent compared with Caucasian patients (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/; https://drkopelman.com/asian - eyelid - surgery - nyc/).
• Suture Removal: Sutures are usually removed 5 - 7 days after surgery, but this may vary depending on the procedure (Source: https://www.drhalaas.com/eyes/asian - eyelid - surgery/; https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Recovery Time: It generally takes around one week to recover from surgery, but strenuous activity should be avoided for a few more weeks. It can take up to three months for the newly - defined eyelid creases to look and feel natural, and the scar from the incision will slowly fade away over six months (Source: https://www.drhalaas.com/eyes/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Aftercare: Follow the surgeon's instructions for wound care, such as not scratching the eyes, keeping away from smoky environments, and using prescribed eye drops or creams. Protect the eyes from the sun and wind by wearing sunglasses (Source: https://www.medijump.com/eyelid - surgery - procedures - in - newyorkcity - unitedstates).

Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, Asian eyelid surgery carries some risks and complications. These may include:

• Anesthesia Risks: There is a risk associated with the anesthesia used during the surgery, such as an allergic reaction (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Bleeding: Bleeding from the incision lines can occur, which may require additional treatment (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Infection: The risk of infection is present after any surgery. Proper wound care can help reduce this risk (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Changes in Skin Sensation or Numbness: Numbness of the eyelashes or changes in skin sensation around the eyes may occur, which can be temporary or permanent (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Difficulty Closing Eyes: In some cases, patients may experience difficulty closing their eyes properly after the surgery (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Dry Eyes: Dryness in the eyes can be a post - operative complication (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Ectropion: The outward rolling of the lower eyelid may occur (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Scarring: Unfavorable scarring can be a concern, although most incisions are hidden within the folds of the eyelids to minimize this risk (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/).
• Revision Surgery: In some cases, revision surgery may be required if the initial results are not satisfactory (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/; https://www.newfaceny.com/eye/asian - eyelid - surgery/).

Cost of Asian Eyelid Surgery in New York City

The cost of Asian eyelid surgery in New York City can vary widely. The average cost of Asian eyelid surgery at Dr. William Lao's practice typically starts at $3,000 and can go up to around $8,000, depending on anesthesia costs, surgeon fees, and other factors. At some other clinics, the pricing information is often only available on request. Generally, classic health insurance normally does not cover the costs of cosmetic operations like Asian eyelid surgery, but if the surgery is done for health - related or functional reasons, such as correcting vision problems caused by sagging eyelids, insurance could cover most of the cost. It is advisable to verify with your insurance broker and the chosen healthcare center (Source: https://www.doctorlao.com/face - new - york/asian - eyelid - surgery/; https://www.medijump.com/eyelid - surgery - procedures - in - newyorkcity - unitedstates).

Conclusion

In conclusion, Korean - style single - eyelid surgery, or Asian blepharoplasty, is a popular cosmetic procedure in New York City that can enhance the appearance of the eyes and provide various benefits. The top five new hospitals mentioned in this article - Manhattan Surgical Care, Dr. William Lao's Plastic Surgery Practice, Dr. Yael Halaas' Practice, Dr. Richard Westreich's Practice, and Dr. Joel Kopelman's Practice - offer specialized services and experienced surgeons. However, it is essential to carefully consider the procedure, choose the right surgeon, and be aware of the pre - operative and post - operative considerations, as well as the potential risks and complications. By doing so, patients can make an informed decision and achieve the desired results.