What is epicanthoplasty?
The epicanthal fold is common in East Asian eyes. When it is prominent, it hides part of the inner corner, makes the gap between the eyes look wider, and forces a double-eyelid crease to start inside the fold, giving a tapered or 'in-fold' line.
Epicanthoplasty redistributes that skin using small flaps, so the corner opens and the crease can run more parallel to the lash line if you wish. It is frequently performed alongside double eyelid surgery or as part of eye widening surgery. The aim is a few millimetres, not a dramatic change.
Who is a good candidate for epicanthoplasty?
- A visible fold over the inner corner hiding the tear-duct area.
- Eyes that look set far apart relative to the width of each eye.
- A crease that disappears into the inner fold and you would like it to look more open.
- Tension or 'pulling' at the inner corner when looking upward.
- Realistic expectations — a subtle opening rather than a new eye shape.
If your eyes are already close-set, opening the inner corner can make them look closer still; an outer-corner procedure such as cat eye surgery may suit you better.
Which epicanthoplasty technique is used?
| Redraping (skin) | Z-plasty | Modified flap | |
| Best for | Mild folds | Tight, prominent folds | Moderate folds |
| Amount of opening | Small | Larger | Moderate |
| Scar visibility | Lowest | Slightly more | Low |
| Downtime | 5–7 days | 7–10 days | 5–7 days |
| Combines with double eyelid | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How is epicanthoplasty performed?
Before & after
Before
After
See more results in our before & after gallery.
How long does epicanthoplasty take to heal?
| Day 1–3 | Mild swelling and redness at the inner corners; keep the area clean and dry. |
|---|---|
| Day 5–7 | Stitches removed; light make-up possible a few days later. |
| Week 2–6 | Scars are pink and slightly firm — normal at this stage. |
| Month 3–6 | Redness fades and the scar becomes difficult to see in most people. |
“A few millimetres at the inner corner changes the whole eye. That is exactly why I take only what is needed.”
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung · Chief DirectorWhat are the risks of epicanthoplasty?
The main concerns are scarring and over-correction. Some people form thicker or redder scars at the inner corner for several months. If too much fold is removed, the pink caruncle shows too much and the eyes can look sharp or unnatural, and reversing that is difficult. Dr. Lee therefore errs on the side of a smaller change.
Frequently asked questions
Will epicanthoplasty leave a scar?
There is a fine scar at the inner corner. It is usually pink for a few months and then fades, but healing varies between people.
Can it be done with double eyelid surgery?
Yes. The two are commonly combined so the new crease begins naturally at the inner corner.
Is the result permanent?
Yes. The skin is permanently redistributed, though scars continue to mature for several months.
Can epicanthoplasty be reversed?
Partial reversal is possible but difficult, which is why a conservative plan matters.
Will my eyes look Western?
No. A small, well-planned opening keeps an East Asian eye shape while making the corner look less hidden.
Who performs the procedure?
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung designs and performs it herself and sees you at every follow-up.