In 2015, lip fillers and Brazilian butt lifts dominated the beauty scene. By 2022, the buzz shifted to buccal fat removal. Now, the spotlight is on the upper blepharoplasty, commonly known as an “upper bleph,” as the latest cosmetic trend.
An upper blepharoplasty involves removing excess skin from the eyelids to create a more lifted and larger appearance to the eyes. Recently, social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have been flooded with discussions and speculations about celebrities undergoing this eye-enhancing procedure. Notably, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported a 13% increase in upper blepharoplasty procedures in 2022 compared to 2019, making it one of the top five most requested cosmetic surgeries in the US.
While upper blepharoplasty can offer functional benefits, such as improving vision for individuals with drooping eyelids, it’s primarily sought after for cosmetic reasons. However, it’s essential to remember that everyone’s natural features are beautiful, and there’s no obligation to alter them surgically in pursuit of societal beauty standards.
For many, the desire for larger, more open eyes is not new. As an Asian woman with hooded eyes, I experienced bullying and societal pressure to conform to Eurocentric beauty standards. Yet, over time, I learned to embrace my unique features and recognize the beauty in diversity.
The current trend of idealizing a specific eye shape can evoke feelings of inadequacy and perpetuate harmful beauty standards. Body types and features should not be treated as trends to follow but celebrated as part of our individuality.
While cosmetic procedures like upper blepharoplasty can boost confidence for some, it’s crucial to prioritize self-acceptance and challenge unrealistic beauty ideals. Remember, your natural features are unique and worthy of celebration.
