Face and neck

Body procedures

Scar revision

Hand surgery

All procedures

procedures

Asian Double-Eyelid Surgery

(雙眼皮手術）

Asian double-eyelid surgery is a procedure designed to create a natural upper-eyelid crease while respecting Asian eyelid anatomy. In New Zealand, this surgery is commonly performed using buried-suture (minimal-incision), hybrid, or full incisional techniques.

Dr Yang offers personalised Asian eyelid surgery with careful attention to anatomy, durability, and recovery, and works with each patient to determine the most appropriate approach.

Surgical Options

Buried-suture / minimal-incision (often called “non-incisional”)

A minimally invasive method that creates an upper-eyelid crease using buried sutures without a long skin incision.

Important clarification
The term “non-incisional” is commonly used, but in practice most suture-based techniques involve small access openings in the eyelid. In Dr Yang’s usual approach, a small access opening is used to bury the suture knot safely beneath the skin. This opening is typically closed with one or two fine stitches, which are removed early and usually heal with minimal visible marking.

Best suited to: thinner eyelids with minimal excess skin or fat
Typical recovery: approximately 5–7 days
General characteristics: minimally invasive, relatively quick recovery, no long skin incision

A note about buried-suture techniques

“Buried-suture” surgery describes a group of techniques, rather than a single standardised method. Different surgeons may use anything from a small number of interrupted fixation points to a continuous or running (inter-locking) suture pattern.

These approaches may differ in:

• Procedure duration

• Reported crease stability over time

• Overall complexity and cost

Techniques involving more fixation points or continuous/running suture patterns have been associated in some published series with improved crease stability in appropriately selected patients, although outcomes vary depending on eyelid anatomy and individual healing response.

In practice: the technique is selected based on eyelid anatomy, patient preference, and a clear discussion of expected recovery and durability.

Hybrid (Mini-incisionS + buried sutures)

A technique that combines small incisions allowing limited contouring (such as small amounts of fat or muscle), together with buried sutures to define the crease.

Best suited to: mild fullness where additional stability is desired
Typical recovery: approximately 7–10 days
General characteristics: intermediate between buried-suture and full incisional approaches

Full incisional (Open)

An incision placed within the eyelid crease allows direct adjustment of skin, fat, and muscle.

Best suited to: thicker or ageing eyelids, excess skin or fat, previous failed suture-based surgery, or ptosis
Typical recovery: approximately 10–14 days
General characteristics: most versatile option with the greatest ability to address eyelid anatomy

Longevity and change over time

All eyelid surgery outcomes change over time. Longevity is influenced by factors such as eyelid thickness, skin elasticity, habitual eye rubbing, contact lens use, and underlying eyelid muscle function.

From published clinical series:

• Buried-suture techniques demonstrate a wider range of long-term durability, with reported rates of crease softening and/or revision varying across studies.

• Hybrid techniques generally show durability between buried-suture and full incisional approaches.

• Full incisional techniques are commonly reported to have lower revision rates in longer-term follow-up.

“Relapse” usually refers to gradual softening or loss of crease definition rather than a surgical complication. Where clinically appropriate, revision options can be discussed.

Individual outcomes vary, and no surgical technique can guarantee a specific cosmetic result.

Our surgical approach

There is no single technique that is suitable for all patients. Dr Yang’s approach is to work collaboratively with each patient to determine a method that is anatomically appropriate, clinically safe, and aligned with informed patient goals.

For buried-suture surgery, Dr Yang commonly uses a continuous or running buried-suture pattern, which has been described in the literature and may be associated with improved crease stability in suitable eyelids, while retaining the characteristics of a minimally invasive approach.

For incisional surgery, Dr Yang often favours a full open technique where appropriate, as it allows greater ability to adjust crease height, symmetry, and contour during surgery — particularly in patients with thicker eyelids, excess skin, ptosis, or previous surgery.

Terminology used by some clinics

Terms such as “Forever,” “W,” or “Cross-link” are not standard medical classifications, but marketing descriptions applied to certain suture-based techniques. While these techniques may produce durable results in selected patients, no buried-suture method is permanent, and clear discussion of expected longevity is important for informed decision-making.

Sedation options

Most procedures are performed under local anaesthetic. Optional low-dose oral sedation may be considered for some to improve comfort.

Intravenous sedation or general anaesthesia may be used in selected cases and requires a consultant anaesthetist and an appropriate surgical facility. The choice of anaesthesia is discussed during consultation.

Fees and personalised estimates

Because every eyelid and surgical plan is different, fixed prices are not published online.

Following consultation, patients receive a written estimate outlining surgeon, facility, and (if applicable) anaesthetist fees.

Fees may vary between Hamilton, Auckland, and Christchurch due to differences in facility and theatre costs. Where clinically appropriate, location options can be discussed during consultation.

Standard consultation fee applies, and there is no obligation to proceed with surgery.

Revision and follow-up

Most patients achieve their intended result with one operation. If a clinically significant issue such as crease softening or asymmetry arises within the expected settling period, a structured pathway for assessment and discussion of refinement is available.

Details are confirmed in writing at consultation. Preference-based changes are elective and discussed transparently.

Considering surgery overseas

While overseas pricing may appear lower, many patients choose to remain in New Zealand for the reassurance of FRACS-trained specialist care, accredited facilities, and continuity with the same surgeon for consultation, surgery, and follow-up.

Ready to talk?

If you are considering double-eyelid surgery, a consultation provides an opportunity to understand your eyelid anatomy, discuss options, and plan thoughtfully.

Standard clinic consultation fee applies, with no obligation to proceed.