Introduction
Double eyelid surgery, especially popular among those of Asian descent, has gained significant traction in New York City. The allure of a well - defined double eyelid crease is strong, as it can enhance the appearance of the eyes, making them look more open, bright, and youthful. In this article, we will introduce the top 5 selected doctors for Korean double eyelid surgery in New York City, providing you with in - depth information about their expertise, experience, and the unique services they offer.
1. Dr. William Lao
Background and Credentials
Dr. William Lao is a double - board certified plastic surgeon who graduated from Johns Hopkins Medical School, one of the most prestigious medical institutions in the world. He has over a decade of experience and has been listed as a top doc in the aesthetic magazine “New Beauty”. He has also had the honor of being featured in numerous publications about his surgical techniques.
Expertise in Double Eyelid Surgery
Upper eyelid surgery (upper blepharoplasty) is one of Dr. Lao’s most popular procedures. It is suitable for a wide range of patients, from younger individuals combating premature aging to older patients looking to reverse the signs of aging. Many Asian patients request a double fold in their eyelids, and Dr. Lao can create a natural - looking double eyelid that retains the patient’s natural cultural characteristics and features. He is also skilled in correcting eyelid ptosis, a common issue among the Asian population, while creating a double eyelid for comprehensive results.
Procedure Process
The first step is to book a consultation. During the consultation, Dr. Lao will fully examine the patient's eyelids and forehead, provide expert recommendations, and answer all questions. If both the patient and Dr. Lao agree that the surgery is suitable, the surgery will be booked, and pre - and post - operative instructions will be provided. The surgery can be performed under general or local anesthesia with sedation. Excess fat may be removed, excess skin trimmed, and underlying muscles adjusted to create the desired crease. The incisions are hidden within the creases of the upper eyelid.
Recovery and Results
Some swelling and bruising are to be expected after the surgery. Sutures will remain in place for around four to six days. On average, it takes about one week to recover from surgery, though strenuous activity should be avoided for a few more weeks. It typically takes around one to two months to see the full results. The results are usually long - lasting, and proper skin care can help preserve the youthful appearance of the eyelids.
Patient Reviews
Many patients have shared positive experiences. For example, a 57 - year - old female had a facial procedure including eyelid surgery with Dr. Lao in December 2014. She was 100% satisfied with the results, stating that people said she looked 10 years younger, and her confidence level soared. Another patient with uneven eyelids from a previous surgery was on the verge of giving up but found Dr. Lao. He was able to solve the problem with a minimum - invasive suture technique and suggested a fat - grafting procedure to enhance the appearance. The patient was extremely happy with the transformed eyes.
Cost
The average cost of Asian eyelid surgery in New York City with Dr. Lao typically starts at $3,000 and can go up to around $8,000, depending on anesthesia costs, surgeon fees, etc. The best way to get an accurate cost is to schedule a consultation.
2. Dr. Edward S. Kwan
Professional Profile
Dr. Edward S. Kwan is a board - certified plastic surgeon with 29 years of experience. He has received positive reviews from many patients, which speaks volumes about his skills and expertise in the field of double eyelid surgery.
Approach to Double Eyelid Surgery
He is known for his attention to detail and the ability to understand the patient's aesthetic goals. Dr. Kwan tailors each procedure to the individual patient, taking into account their unique facial features and cultural background. His surgical approach aims to create a natural - looking double eyelid that enhances the overall appearance of the eyes.
Procedural Advantages
Patients have reported quick recovery times after surgery with Dr. Kwan. One patient had double eyelid surgery and was up and out the next day (with sunglasses on), experiencing no complications or pain and not even needing pain medication. This indicates that Dr. Kwan's surgical techniques are likely minimally invasive and well - executed.
Cost and Consultation
While specific cost details may vary, a consultation with Dr. Kwan can provide a more accurate estimate. During the consultation, he will thoroughly discuss the procedure, potential risks, and expected results with the patient.
3. Dr. Brett S. Kotlus
Specialization and Experience
Dr. Brett S. Kotlus is an oculoplastic surgeon, board - certified in ophthalmology. He has 19 years of experience and is an expert in Asian blepharoplasty. He has traveled to treat patients across the world, including in Thailand, Malaysia, and Mongolia, and has also given lectures on cosmetic eyelid surgery to Korean surgeons in Korea.
Techniques in Asian Double Eyelid Surgery
There are two main techniques for Asian double eyelid surgery: the incisional method and the suture method. Dr. Kotlus prefers the incisional method for most patients as it is more reliable and predictable in forming a lasting crease. He also focuses on key aspects such as crease height (keeping it low to reflect natural Asian features), inner crease configuration (modifying the epicanthal fold), lateral crease position (with a slight flare), and medial and lateral epicanthoplasty.
Patient Considerations and Goals
He understands that patients may have various reasons for seeking double eyelid surgery, such as creating or enhancing an eyelid crease, improving facial symmetry, or correcting eyelid ptosis. Dr. Kotlus takes the time to discuss these goals with the patient during the consultation and provides personalized treatment plans.
Recovery Process
The recovery process has two stages. The first stage lasts 1 - 2 weeks, with noticeable swelling and possible bruising. The second stage involves long - term resolution of swelling and scar maturation over a period of months. When the incision is well - healed, it appears as a faint line that blends into the created upper eyelid crease.
Patient Satisfaction
He has treated many patients from different Asian backgrounds, including Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Filipino. His patients often leave positive reviews, attesting to the natural - looking results and his ability to meet their expectations.
4. Dr. Yael Halaas
Credentials and Reputation
Dr. Yael Halaas is the leading female facial plastic surgeon in the Westchester and NYC area. She is double - board certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and is also a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Her specialized technique for Asian eyelid surgery has been recognized by the Digital Journal.
Types of Asian Eyelid Surgery
Dr. Halaas offers three types of Asian eyelid surgery: full incision (suitable for patients with excess or thick eyelid skin or severe ptosis), partial incision (for patients with excess fat in the eyelids), and double suture and twist (for patients with little excess skin, no droopiness, and little fat around the eyes). Each technique is designed to look and function naturally.
Customized Treatment
She works closely with each patient from a personal and aesthetic perspective to understand their desires. Dr. Halaas can customize the treatment according to the patient's budget and provides honest and empathetic advice throughout the process.
Recovery and Results
Recovery depends on the procedure selected. In general, sutures are removed 5 - 7 days after surgery, and about 60% - 70% of the swelling and bruising should subside one week later. It may 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. Most patients are very satisfied with the natural - looking results and minimal visible scarring.
5. Dr. Edward S. Kwak
Double - Board Certification and Training
Dr. Edward S. Kwak is a double - board certified facial plastic surgeon in NYC. He has comprehensive training, having studied at some of the most elite hospitals in the US and some of the busiest plastic surgery clinics in Korea. He continues to hone his skills alongside the nation's most revered physicians.
Expertise in Asian Eyelid Surgery
He has a mastery of Asian eyelid anatomy and understands each patient's motivations for the procedure, always considering their cultural and ethnic identities. He is known for his precision, skill, and ability to produce natural - looking and exquisite results. He may suggest additional procedures such as ptosis surgery or epicanthoplasty to enhance the outcomes.
Procedural Details
Asian blepharoplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia and takes approximately one hour. The technique is customized to the patient's unique anatomy and age. There are incisional and non - incisional approaches.
Revision Surgery
Dr. Kwak has performed hundreds of revision Asian blepharoplasties. He understands the difficulties of working with scar tissue from previous treatments and has been able to provide satisfactory results for patients who were unhappy with previous cosmetic experiences.
Patient Experience
Patients have shared positive experiences, such as one patient who had Asian blepharoplasty and epicanthoplasty done on both eyes. Dr. Kwak listened carefully to the patient's concerns and was able to give realistic expectations, and the patient was pleased with the results.
Comparison of the Top 5 Doctors
| Doctor | Credentials | Years of Experience | Special Techniques | Patient Reviews | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. William Lao | Double - board certified, Johns Hopkins graduate, featured in “New Beauty” | Over a decade | Natural - looking double eyelid creation, ptosis correction | Many satisfied patients reporting significant improvement in appearance and high confidence | $3,000 - $8,000 |
| Dr. Edward S. Kwan | Board - certified plastic surgeon | 29 years | Attention to detail, tailored procedures | Patients report quick recovery and no complications | Varies, consult for estimate |
| Dr. Brett S. Kotlus | Oculoplastic surgeon, board - certified in ophthalmology | 19 years | Incisional method preference, focus on crease details | Positive reviews from patients of various Asian backgrounds | Varies, consult for estimate |
| Dr. Yael Halaas | Double - board certified, recognized by Digital Journal | N/A | Three types of Asian eyelid surgery, customized treatment | Patients satisfied with natural - looking results and minimal scarring | Varies, consult for estimate |
| Dr. Edward S. Kwak | Double - board certified facial plastic surgeon | 18 years | Mastery of Asian eyelid anatomy, revision surgery expertise | Patients pleased with results after careful consultation | Varies, consult for estimate |
Frequently Asked Questions about Korean Double Eyelid Surgery in NYC
Is double eyelid surgery painful?
Most patients do not experience significant pain during the surgery as they are under anesthesia. After the surgery, mild discomfort and swelling are common, but doctors can provide pain medication to alleviate the discomfort.
How long does it take to see the results?
You can see immediate results after the surgery, but due to swelling, the best results are usually visible after a few weeks to a few months, depending on the individual and the surgical technique used.
Can double eyelid surgery be combined with other procedures?
Yes, it can be combined with lower blepharoplasty, facelift, Botox injections, dermal fillers, fat grafting, ptosis surgery, or epicanthoplasty for more comprehensive results.
Is double eyelid surgery designed to “westernize” the appearance?
No, the goal of double eyelid surgery is to create a natural - looking crease while maintaining the patient's Asian or oriental facial features. Many Asians are born with a natural double eyelid, and the surgery aims to mimic this natural look.
What are the risks associated with double eyelid surgery?
Possible risks include anesthesia risks, bleeding, changes in skin sensation, difficulty closing eyes, dryness, infection, lid lag, persistent pain, the need for revision surgery, sensitivity to light, swelling, bruising, and unfavorable scarring.
Conclusion
In New York City, these top 5 doctors - Dr. William Lao, Dr. Edward S. Kwan, Dr. Brett S. Kotlus, Dr. Yael Halaas, and Dr. Edward S. Kwak - are highly qualified and experienced in performing Korean double eyelid surgery. Each doctor brings unique skills, techniques, and patient - centered approaches to the table. They understand the cultural and aesthetic preferences of their patients and strive to achieve natural - looking and satisfactory results. Whether you are looking to enhance the appearance of your eyes, correct eyelid ptosis, or improve facial symmetry, these doctors can provide you with the professional care you need.
If you are considering Korean double eyelid surgery in New York City, we encourage you to take the next step. Research these doctors further, read more patient reviews, and most importantly, schedule a consultation. By having in - depth discussions with these experts, you can make an informed decision about which doctor is the best fit for you and your aesthetic goals. Don't hesitate to reach out and take the first step towards enhancing your natural beauty.
