How long does double eyelid surgery / stitching last?
Double eyelid surgery is among one of the most sought-after plastic surgery procedures. Currently, there are 2 main approaches to surgically create double eyelids: Incisional Upper Blepharoplasty – the cutting approach and Double Suture and Twist (DST) – the stitching approach. Both of these procedures have their own features and are both popular. Nevertheless, plastic surgery is a significant commitment and hence, one of the most important questions that most people will have is: How long does each of the double eyelid procedures last?
What are the different types of double eyelid surgery?
Before we discuss the longevity of double eyelid surgery, let us explore the features of the different approaches in doing so.
- Incisional Upper Blepharoplasty – The cutting approach
This is the traditional approach to create the upper eyelid creases, and is usually what people are referring to when mentioning double eyelid surgery. In this approach, the surgeon makes an incision on the upper eyelid to remove some skin, fat and other tissue. Some muscles may also be reattached depending on the condition of the patient. Once all these are complete, the surgeon will close the incision with sutures.
After the procedure, the cut eyelid skin will be pulled inwards when the eye opens, creating the eyelid crease. Over time, internal scar tissue will form beneath the upper eyelid, reinforcing the shape of the crease.
- Double Suture and Twist (DST) – The stitching approach
Being a less invasive alternative, double eyelid stitching is quickly gaining popularity to replace to traditional cutting approach. Like the name suggests, this approach involves a specialised stitching technique using sutures to create the eyelid crease.
During the procedure, the surgeon will make 3 punctures along the upper eyelid. A pair of sutures is then passed through these punctures and twisted using a specific technique (hence the name “Double Suture and Twist”). These sutures will pull the eyelid skin inwards when the eye opens, creating the eyelid crease. Over time, scar tissue will form around the sutures and reinforce them like in the cutting approach.
Does incisional double eyelid surgery really last longer than DST?
When comparing the 2 approaches, one of the most frequently asked questions is: Does the cutting approach last longer than the stitching approach?
At first glance, this does seem to be the case on average. After all, since DST using sutures to hold the double eyelids together, the results should, in theory, depend on how long the sutures last. However, in practice it is not as straightforward. The results from both approaches can, in fact, last for life. The true difference is that results from the incisional approach is more resilient, while the stitching approach has more post-surgery concerns to maintain long-term results.
- Degradation of sutures
As mentioned, the sutures used in DST can degrade over time via natural wear and tear, even though these are durable, non-absorbable ones specialised to create the eyelid crease. However, this does not always happen, and only many years after the procedure in the event that it does. By then, formation of scar tissue should be sufficient to maintain the eyelid crease and there will be likely minimal changes to the appearance of your double eyelids.
- Damage of sutures from external stress
Rarely, stress from external factors can damage the eyelid sutures and cause them to snap abruptly. Some examples include:
- Frequent or vigorous rubbing of the eyes when washing the face or in general
- Trauma/impact near the eye
When this does happen, revision surgery is usually needed, especially if the scar tissue is not fully formed.
Because of these reasons, the stitching approach is perceived to be less long-lived than the incisional approach. However, as long as you pay attention to your eyes and reduce disturbance to the eyes, the results from DST can last for life just like incisional double eyelid surgery.
Conclusion
Regardless of the approach, you should always consult a skilled and reputable plastic surgeon for your double eyelid surgery. Also, you should take good care of your newly created double eyelids. Good surgery technique and careful post-care goes a long way in helping you achieve optimal and long-lasting results.