Q. If I have severe epicanthic folds, can surgery improve them as well?

Hello. I’m Director Seo Chan-eol of AB Plastic Surgery.

Today, I’d like to discuss one of the things many of you are curious about: epicanthic folds.

The inner skin of the upper eyelid falls down like a curtain and covers part of the inner corner of the eye, making the eyes look stuffy!

This is called an “epicanthic fold,” and this shape is common among East Asians.

Can I also have eyes that look clear and elongated like celebrities, instead of eyes that look stuffy and sleepy?

Of course, it is possible. Let’s take a closer look.

As mentioned, an “epicanthic fold” refers to a folded shape in which the upper eyelid skin partially covers the inner corner of the eye.

It is also called the “medial canthal fold” or the “inner corner fold,” and in most East Asians, the double eyelid structure appears incomplete.

Usually, when the skin at the front of the eye is pulled toward the nose, the red lacrimal caruncle that had been hidden becomes partially visible, and this indicates the presence of such a fold.

From a cosmetic standpoint, such epicanthic folds can make the eyes look farther apart or more stuffy, and they can also interfere with the inner double-eyelid line.

If this is improved through a surgical method commonly called “inner corner fold correction” or “epicanthoplasty,” the eyes can be horizontally lengthened,

making the distance between the eyes look less constricted and giving the eyes a clearer appearance.

There are several surgical methods available, so the procedure can be performed at the same time as double-eyelid surgery or on its own,

and even in severe cases, improvement may be possible through the appropriate surgical method.

However, too much correction can lead to excessive exposure of the lacrimal caruncle or an overly intense impression. Since the appearance of the eyes should be considered comprehensively, including eye size, double eyelids, and eyelid fat or folds,

it would be best to consult a specialist and find the most suitable improvement method for your eyes.

On our hospital website, you can also see photos of real cases in which people found their own unique charm and achieved beautiful, attractive eyes through these eye-corner procedures. I hope this was helpful, and thank you for reading.