Do I Need Front Canthoplasty for My Eyes? Surgical Methods and Approximate Cost Guide

Do I Need Front Canthoplasty for My Eyes? A Guide to Surgical Methods Performed with Double-Eyelid Surgery and Approximate Costs

One of the concerns that many people bring up during consultations for eye plastic surgery is the appearance of a stuffy-looking inner corner of the eye. When your eyes look somehow cramped when you look in the mirror, or when the epicanthal folds are noticeable, it is natural to think of front canthoplasty or double-eyelid surgery. However, simply making the eyes longer horizontally or creating a larger crease does not necessarily result in beautiful-looking eyes. Without considering the individual’s eye structure, the angle of the outer corners, and overall facial proportions, the result may instead look unnatural.

So today, I will provide a practical overview of the characteristics of eyes that may actually need front canthoplasty, how it relates to double-eyelid surgery, upper canthoplasty, lateral canthoplasty, and lower canthoplasty, as well as the general basis for estimating costs.

1. Do I Really Need Front Canthoplasty for My Eyes?

Front canthoplasty is a procedure that opens up the inner corner of the eye by reducing the epicanthal fold that makes it look covered, creating a more open and gentle appearance. It is often considered together with double-eyelid surgery in cases such as the following.

• When prominent epicanthal folds make the distance between the eyes appear wide

• When the inner corners of the eyes droop slightly downward, creating a fierce impression

• When you want a neat in-out, semi-out, or out-fold crease with double-eyelid surgery, but the epicanthal folds keep obstructing the desired line

• When the lacrimal caruncle at the inner corner of the eye is heavily covered, making the eyes look stuffy

That does not mean that everyone can or should have the inner corners opened. If the procedure is performed excessively despite an already narrow distance between the eyes or insufficient skin laxity, side effects may occur, such as the eyes appearing too close together or excessive exposure of the lacrimal caruncle. To accurately determine whether the procedure is truly needed for your eyes and whether it should be combined with upper, lateral, or lower canthoplasty, it is best to visit a clinic and carefully discuss these points with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

2. How Is the Procedure Performed These Days? (Surgical Principles)

In the past, many people were very concerned about scarring because of the incision-based techniques used. These days, plastic surgery clinics mainly use micro-incisions that distribute tension in the skin or subcutaneous dissection techniques to make scars less noticeable.

• Reducing the epicanthal fold and adjusting its direction: Rather than simply cutting the area, the hidden space is opened naturally while shaping the inner corner into a rounded or refined angle.

• Combining it with upper canthoplasty: If the inner corner points upward at a 45-degree angle and creates a cramped appearance, front canthoplasty and upper canthoplasty may be performed together to create a softer, curved line. This is also a key step in making the double-eyelid crease look more attractive.

• Combining it with lateral and lower canthoplasty: The horizontal length of the eyes can be adjusted through front canthoplasty, while the vertical width and angle of the outer corners can be adjusted through lateral and lower canthoplasty to design the overall eye shape.

The procedure is relatively short, taking approximately 30 minutes including the time required for anesthesia.

3. How Much Does Front Canthoplasty Cost, Approximately?

Because regulations under the Medical Service Act apply to hospital advertising and the publication of costs, it is difficult to list an exact amount down to the nearest 100 won on a blog. However, it is still helpful to have a general idea before visiting a clinic.

• Average cost range: The average cost at plastic surgery clinics is generally around 500,000 to 1,000,000 won when front canthoplasty is performed alone. However, the estimate may naturally vary depending on the type of anesthesia, the specific surgical method, the level of difficulty, the scope of the procedure, and whether it is performed together with other procedures such as double-eyelid surgery, upper canthoplasty, lateral canthoplasty, or lower canthoplasty.

• How to check the exact cost: Because the appropriate solution varies depending on the condition of the eyes, including the thickness of the epicanthal fold and skin elasticity, we recommend checking the exact cost through the non-covered services information page on the clinic’s official website or through a one-on-one consultation by phone or KakaoTalk.

4. Recovery Period and Practical Tips After Surgery

• Suture removal: Sutures are usually removed during a visit to the clinic 5 to 7 days after surgery. From that day, light face washing and makeup are generally possible.

• Swelling and bruising: Most significant swelling and bruising subsides within one to two weeks, but slight redness and residual swelling around the inner corners may gradually fade over several months depending on the individual. This is also a common part of the recovery process after double-eyelid surgery, lateral canthoplasty, or lower canthoplasty.

• Care tips: Even if the area feels bothersome at first, you should never rub your eyes forcefully or irritate the surgical site. Applying the prescribed scar ointment consistently can make a significant difference in the recovery process.

💡 In Closing

Front canthoplasty is a relatively common procedure among eye plastic surgeries, but the skin around the eyes is very sensitive. Even making a small adjustment beyond what is appropriate can significantly change your appearance or lead to concerns about scarring. Rather than deciding based solely on the lowest cost, carefully choose a clinic where a board-certified plastic surgeon thoroughly examines your eye structure and performs the procedure safely.

※ This post was written for informational purposes in compliance with the Medical Service Act. Front canthoplasty and eye plastic surgery may cause side effects such as scarring, redness, and swelling depending on the individual’s eye condition, so careful consideration is necessary. Detailed cost and consultation information can be confirmed through the official channels of the relevant medical institution.

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