Tokyo: An increasing number of young people in Japan, particularly those under the age of 20, are opting for cosmetic procedures such as double eyelid surgery, reflecting a growing trend in the country.
According to Philippines News Agency, data from Kyoritsu Cosmetic Surgery reveals a significant rise in patients aged 19 or younger, jumping from 7.2 percent in 2017 to 18.8 percent in 2025. Notably, the percentage of those under 20 undergoing double eyelid surgery increased from 18.8 percent in 2018 to 27.2 percent in 2025. Many junior high school students are reportedly taking advantage of long school holidays to undergo treatments, including double eyelid surgery.
Shonan Beauty Clinic in Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward has also seen a rise in young patients, some as young as elementary school graduates. Minors aged under 18 must have parental or guardian consent to proceed with the surgeries. Kim Ahmi, a physician at Shonan Beauty Clinic, noted an increase in third-year junior high school patients seeking consultations during summer vacations and before starting high school.
Two main techniques for double eyelid surgery exist: the non-incision method and the incision method. Kim explained that the non-incision method, which involves threading to create a crease, is more popular due to minimal swelling and reversibility. The procedure typically lasts about 30 minutes, and it takes around a month for the eyelids to appear natural. Kim emphasized that there are no significant physical risks for minors undergoing the procedure.
Some surgeries are performed at the suggestion of parents, as evidenced by the experience of manga artist Gura Hamuco. She underwent her first double eyelid surgery at her mother's suggestion during her junior high school years. Hamuco shared her experience of societal beauty pressures and expressed her intent to offer her children diverse perspectives on beauty if they consider cosmetic surgery in the future.
Akihito Kujime, a senior official of the Japan Association of Aesthetic Medicine, stressed the importance of respecting minors' wishes while advising caution against irreversible procedures. Kujime highlighted the need for thorough pre-surgery consultations to ensure young patients' satisfaction with the outcomes.
