Monolid vs Double Eyelid: Differences & Aesthetic Choices

Our eye shape and structure are important to different aspects of our beauty, and they certainly help in defining facial features. Matched with variations and ethnicity, monolid and double eyelid are some of the commonly used terms, given how people divided the world in two. These two phrases refer to the presence or absence of a defined upper eyelid crease. Even though both structures are pleasing to look at, they vary greatly regarding physique, function, and even societal viewpoints.

If you are curious about how monolids and double eyelids differ and their aesthetic advantage as well as the rise in demand for eyelid surgery, you should read this guide I prepared for you.

What Is a Monolid?

Commonly known as epicanthic fold, is considered a type of eyelids lacking clear separation making them have no visible creases. This trait is mostly attributed of people of East Asian ancestry, but can also be seen in other ethnicities.

Characteristics of Monolids:

  • The area under the eyebrow over the eye is a fleshthroat covering the crease making the eye smooth.
  • Because the skin of the average upper eyelid appears over the crease, the overall aesthetics of the eye is smooth. 
  • Due to a lack of visible crease, the eyelids may have a flatter profile or puff. 
  • In addition to this, lashes may have a lesser visibility and can at times point downward to the skin.
  • The method of make-up application differs for those who have double eyelids.

Advantages of Monolids:

  • They have an eye shape that is both distinct and can make someone look youthful. 
  • They can pull off an elegant and sophisticated look with the aid of make-up. 
  • They are less likely to have more prominent eyelid wrinkles in their older age. 

Disadvantages of Monolids:

  • Applying certain styles of eyeshadows can prove difficult.
  • With the structure of their eyelids, they might have shorter or less curled eyelashes. 
  •  A desire for more aesthetic eyelid crease depiction can motivate a wanting for a more defined crease. 

What is a Double Eyelid?

A double eyelid is when a visible cut or line divides the upper eyelid in two and creates defined folds which enhance the eye’ shape. People of European, South Asian, and Middle Eastern descents commonly have double eyelids and so do some East Asians. 

Characteristics of double eyelids: 

  • Their eye lid crease gives them more defined contours. 
  • They give an illusion of larger and more open eyes. 
  • Their eyes have curls and the lashes can be visible as well. 
  • They can easily make up and will have unlimited flexibility for the style they choose. 

Advantages of Double Eyelids: 

  • Makes the face livelier and behind every eye is stronger and beautifully defined expression.
  • Simplifies applying eyeliners and eye shadows as well as other eye cosmetics.
  • Improves the looks of lengthened and lifted eyelashes.

Drawbacks of Double Eyelids:

  • The eyelid crease could become unevenly positioned with age.
  •  Several people having deep-set `eye' folds could tend to gain hooded eyelids as time progresses.
  •  Increased tendency of developing sagginess or wrinkles due to loss of skin elasticity.

Cultural and Personal Beauty Standards

There are personal, cultural and beauty preference measurements which play a role in eyes and eyelid shapes. In some eastern Asian cultures, having a double eyelid is a sign of having large and well-shaped eyes. This explains why many people undergo double eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), to get an eye crease or add onto an existing one. However, the recent trend of appreciating and having beauty monolids is gaining popularity in the beauty makeup world among and women highly accepted as well.

However, in Western beauty standards, having double eyelids is the norm, but hooded eyes and deep-set eyes are equally cherished. The perception of beauty is fluid, and no eye shape is placed on a pedestal.

What Drives the Decision of Some Individuals to Get Double Eyelid Surgery?

Double eyelid blepharoplasty is commonly undertaken. This type of surgery is performed on individuals who possess monolids giving them the ability to contour the eye in a desired fashion. It can be done using either of the following approaches:

  • Incisional Method: This is a permanent approach. It involves making incisions and creating a defined contour that provides the ability to open the eye wider.
  • Non-Incisional (Suture) Method: This approach uses anchors that attach to the dermis creating a contour however this method is not as permanent as the latter.
  • Surgical Approaches for Eyelid Surgery
  • Making defined eye shapes that in turn enlarges the eyes.
  • Enhancing the symmetry of the eyelids.
  • Simplifying the process of makeup application.
  • Alleviating medical concerns like poor vision as a result of too much eyelid skin.

Understandably, many people have come to embrace these surgical enhancements. However little consideration was given to the aging population who struggle with the obesity that causes hooded brows, as well as sagging skin that hinders everyday tasks. 

Monolid and Double Eyelid Makeup Tricks

You do not have to suffer from limited eyelid options. Use the tips in this list to achieve the look you want:

For Monolid Sets:

  • Use bold gradient eyeshadow to amplify the forms of the eyes in both directions for added effect.
  • Use eyeliner but only to the bottom of the lid to keep a softer look.
  • Use waterproof mascara to preserve the lifted look.
  • Eyelid tape can also be used for a great temporary crease effect. 

For Double Eyelids: 

  • Try creative eyeshadow application like cut creases. 
  • Use eyeliner to bring out the shape of the eye. 
  • Mascara and false lashes can compliment the eye for added openness. 
  • To accentuate the eye look, highlight the brow bone. 

Closing Thoughts

Double eyelids and monolids are both unique and beautiful in their own ways Double eyelids look more contoured while monolids look vivaciously smooth. People who want to accentuate their eyelids through make-up, surgery, or those who want to embrace their natural looks, have the freedom to make their choices.

Those who are considering eyelid surgery must choose a certified and experienced cosmetic surgeon for the most safe and natural looking results. 

About Dr. Preeti Yadav

Dr. Preeti Yadav is a popular name when it comes to plastic and cosmetic surgeon in Gurgaon. She is an expert in eyelid surgery, facial aesthetic surgery, and various reconstructive surgery procedures. She has years of practice in improving and blending beauty and nature and has custom plans for every courageous soul wanting to improve their features. For patients who intend to have eyelid surgery, Dr. Preeti Yadav is extremely approachable for her expert advice and tends to her patients to help them achieve their goals effortlessly.

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