The standards of beauty and the popularity of cosmetic procedures have changed significantly over the years. Below is an overview of beauty standards and cosmetic procedures, specifically eyelid surgery, as influenced by cultural, social, and technological developments from 1900 to the present.
Women during this period were encouraged to have a natural, modest appearance. Makeup was used sparingly, often in secret or discreet forms, such as tinted balms and powders. Pale skin was considered ideal, a sign of wealth and status, as it indicated that one did not have to work outside. Surgical intervention was rare. In the early 20th century, eyelid surgery was still relatively rare and experimental.
The few procedures that were performed were mostly reconstructive in nature, often to correct deformities caused by injuries or congenital abnormalities. Cosmetic eyelid surgery was not yet widespread. Surgery at that time was limited by available technology and medical knowledge. Procedures were performed under local anesthesia and were often risky with a significant chance of complications.
The “flapper style” became popular in the 1920s, characterized by short hairstyles, dark eye makeup, and a slim, boyish figure. In the 1930s, a more glamorous style was appreciated, emphasizing curly hair and fuller figures. The first modern cosmetic procedures began to emerge, such as facelifts. However, they were still quite experimental and risky.
In the 1940s and 1950s, full curves and an hourglass figure, as represented by actresses such as Marilyn Monroe, were seen as the ultimate beauty ideal. The emphasis was on a feminine and voluptuous body. After World War II, plastic surgery became more important, partly due to the need for reconstructive procedures for wounded soldiers. This led to improved techniques and a growing interest in cosmetic surgery, including eyelid correction.
Techniques began to improve with more focus on aesthetics. Surgeons removed excess skin and fat to create a more youthful appearance. More attention was paid to symmetry and natural results.
In the 1960s, standards changed drastically with the rise of the sleek, almost androgynous style, embodied by models such as Twiggy. The 1970s brought a more natural and bohemian style. Surgery became more accessible and less risky, leading to an increase in popularity. In the 1960s and 1970s, the popularity of eyelid surgery also increased, particularly in Hollywood, where a youthful appearance was important for actors.
The techniques became increasingly refined. Surgeons used more precise methods to remove or reposition skin and fat. The focus was on maintaining a natural appearance and preventing a “too tight” look.
The 1980s were the era of extravagance and excess, with a focus on a muscular, athletic body for both men and women. In the 1990s, a supermodel ideal was promoted, featuring a slim but healthy body. By the 1980s and 1990s, eyelid surgery was one of the most frequently performed cosmetic procedures worldwide. The procedure became increasingly popular among both men and women. Surgeons began using lasers for certain aspects of the procedure, which can result in less blood loss and a shorter recovery. Techniques were developed to make the scars more subtle, often hidden in the natural creases of the eyelids.
In addition to eyelid corrections, liposuction, breast implants, and nose corrections also became particularly popular. In the 1990s, botulinum toxin began to emerge as a non-surgical alternative to facelifts.
The 2000s introduced a variety of beauty ideals, from the “size zero” trend to greater acceptance of different body types. However, social media also reinforced unrealistic beauty standards, with a strong emphasis on symmetrical faces and a youthful appearance. Minimal and non-invasive procedures such as fillers, botulinum toxin, and laser treatments became enormously popular.
In the late 2010s, the diversity of available procedures increased, allowing for personalized adjustments. The popularity of eyelid surgery continued to rise, partly due to the aging population interested in rejuvenation procedures. The procedure became further standardized, but a trend towards customization also emerged to meet individual needs.
New techniques were developed such as transconjunctival blepharoplasty, in which the fat is removed through an incision in the eyelid without visible scars on the outside. Techniques to add volume rather than just remove it, to maintain a youthful appearance, also became popular. Minimally invasive techniques and technologies such as radiofrequency and laser treatment became more common for eyelid surgery.
Today, there is a wider acceptance of diverse beauty ideals, including a focus on natural beauty and body positivity. At the same time, the influence of social media remains strong, leading to conflicting expectations of beauty. The trend is towards subtle enhancements and personalized aesthetics, with a growing demand for procedures that allow for quick recovery. Hybrid procedures that are non-invasive are gaining popularity, as is the application of technology in procedures, such as laser and ultrasound skin resurfacing.
In the current decade, eyelid corrections are still very popular, with a growing demand for natural results and a quick recovery. Eyelid corrections are also becoming increasingly popular among younger people. The choice for this is often for aesthetic reasons, such as obtaining a tighter, more defined look. This can involve removing excess skin or fat bags under the eyes.
In addition, the pressure to always look good has been amplified by social media. The constant use of filters and comparing oneself to edited images can contribute to the desire to undergo cosmetic procedures. Furthermore, cultural influences can play a role in the decision to undergo eyelid correction. The procedure is sometimes combined with other treatments, such as a brow lift or fillers, for a more comprehensive approach to aging.
At Looks Clinics, our doctors work with a lifting technique aimed at a fresh but not overcorrected appearance, with an emphasis on maintaining a natural look. Special suturing methods are used to increase precision. The personal approach, in which the anatomy of each client is analyzed individually, is aimed at ensuring that the result suits the individual characteristics of the person.
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