Eye Surgery for Men and Women: What Are the Differences in Design and Surgical Methods?…Individual Eye Structure Must Be Considered

<JAYJUN Plastic Surgery & Dermatology Clinic> Medical Director Park Cheolheum, Board-Certified Plastic Surgery Specialist

As more men and women consider eyelid surgery, interest is growing in the differences in surgical design and approach based on gender. Eyelid surgery goes beyond simply creating double eyelid lines or enlarging the eyes; it is a field that requires a comprehensive consideration of the structure of the eyelids, the function of opening the eyes, the position of the eyebrows and forehead, and the overall facial proportions. Since men and women often differ in their preferred eye shapes and design preferences, it is crucial to develop a surgical plan tailored to each individual’s characteristics.

Generally, men are often interested in improving an appearance that seems dull or sleepy while maintaining their existing eye shape. Rather than an overly prominent double eyelid crease, they may prefer a thin, hidden double eyelid or a natural, bright-looking eye shape. On the other hand, some women are interested in creating more defined eyes by adjusting the height and shape of the double eyelid crease or by considering the vertical width of the eye.

However, these differences represent general preferences only and do not apply uniformly to all men and women. Men may also desire a distinct double eyelid crease, and women may prefer a natural-looking eye shape where the double eyelid is barely visible. Therefore, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all “typical” design based on gender, the surgical approach should be determined by considering the individual’s desired changes, the current shape of their eyes, and how the result harmonizes with their overall facial features.

In particular, eyelid correction is sometimes considered in male eyelid surgery. If the strength to open the eyes is weak, causing the pupils to be insufficiently exposed, or if the forehead muscles are overused, the need for surgery can be determined after evaluating the movement and function of the eyelids. However, eyelid correction is not necessary simply because the eyes appear small or sleepy; it is important to distinguish this from other causes, such as sagging skin.

The appropriate surgical method also varies depending on whether the eyelid skin is sagging or whether there is an actual lack of strength in opening the eyes. Having drooping eyelids does not automatically mean eyelid correction is necessary; if excessive correction is performed in the absence of functional issues, problems such as the eyes opening unnaturally or failing to close completely may arise. Therefore, it is essential to accurately diagnose the condition before surgery and carefully determine the extent of correction.

In female eyelid surgery as well, rather than automatically combining double eyelid surgery or canthoplasty, the appropriate method should be selected by considering the horizontal-to-vertical ratio of the eyes, bilateral symmetry, and the surrounding bone structure. Eyelid correction should also be decided carefully after confirming functional issues and anatomical characteristics; excessive correction can lead to problems such as the eyes opening unnaturally or failing to close completely.

Dr. Park Cheolheum, a board-certified plastic surgery specialist at JAYJUN Plastic Surgery, stated, “While there may be differences in preferred eye shapes between men and women, the surgical method should not be determined based solely on gender,” and “It is important to comprehensively consider the individual’s eye structure, eyelid function, and overall facial balance, and to confirm the necessity and limitations of surgery through thorough consultation and diagnosis,” he advised.