Implications of Long-Term Double Eyelid Tape Use

The widespread adoption of double eyelid tapes (DET) to achieve the desired double eyelid aesthetic has prompted investigations into their long-term effects. Given the delicate and complex anatomy of the eyelid, concerns have emerged about the impact of DETs on eyelid structure and the outcomes of subsequent surgical procedures.

A cohort of 267 outpatients from our department was recruited between January 2022 and January 2024 to participate in a survey assessing the usage of double eyelid tape (DET). Eyelid laxity was subsequently tested in all outpatients using the Vertical Lid Pull and Parallel Lid Pull methods. Among all participants, 33 underwent double eyelid surgery, with 22 having a history of excessive DET usage and 11 with no DET usage. Post-operative outcomes, including operation duration, satisfaction levels, and complications were recorded. Additionally excised eyelid skin tissues during surgery underwent Masson’s staining and EVG staining to analyze collagen and elastic fibers.

Among surveyed outpatients (mean age: 23.79 ± 3.71 years, 99.63% female, mean BMI: 21.56 ± 1.75 kg/m²), 56.55% had oculopathy with ametropia being predominant (53.93%). Hooded eyelids were the most prevalent congenital condition (62.54%). Nearly half (49.44%) used Double Eyelid Tapes (DET) for 1–2 years, with 70.04% experiencing discomfort and 70.79% reporting permanent eyelid shape change. Lid pull measurements showed no significant difference in vertical pulls between DET users and non-users, but parallel pulls varied significantly (p<0.05). Complications like asymmetry, numbness, and hypertrophic scars were exclusive to DET users. Physician evaluations favored non-DET users significantly (p<0.05). Histological analysis revealed an interesting finding that individuals using DET have higher collagen levels and notable changes in skin structure when compared to non-users.

Prolonged use of double eyelid tape (DET) may result in eyelid laxity, impacting ocular health and complicating blepharoplasty procedures.

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