What is epicanthoplasty (opening the inner corner of the eye)? Is epicanthoplasty necessary when getting double eyelid surgery

Epicanthoplasty (opening the inner corner of the eye) is becoming increasingly popular, especially for those seeking to correct narrow or small eyes. It's a cosmetic surgery that helps make the eyes appear longer and more beautiful. However, not everyone who has double eyelid surgery needs epicanthoplasty; it depends on the individual's eye structure and preferences. Let's understand epicanthoplasty in more detail.

What is Epicantholotomy?

Epicantholotomy is a surgical procedure that corrects folds or sagging of the skin around the inner corner of the eye, medically known as an "epicanthal fold." This is more common in Asians than Westerners. The surgery focuses on adjusting the muscles and skin around the inner corner of the eye to open it wider, making the eyes appear brighter, more spacious, and more three-dimensional. The doctor will assess the suitability based on each individual's eye and facial structure.

Who is Epicantholotomy suitable for?

Epicantholotomy is not suitable for everyone. Consideration for this surgery should take into account individual eye characteristics and needs. Let's look at who is suitable for epicantholotomy.

Closed or drooping inner corners of the eyes, making the eyes appear narrow and small

Those with excessively closed or drooping inner corners of the eyes, making the eyes appear narrow and small, are the most suitable group for epicantholotomy. The surgery helps correct the structure of the inner corner of the eye, opening it wider and making the eyes appear more balanced and beautiful. It also makes makeup application easier because there is more space for eye makeup.

Narrow, small, and short eyes

For those with narrow, small, and short eyes, opening the inner corner of the eye will help make the eyes appear longer and wider, making the face look brighter and more attractive. This method is suitable for those who want to enhance their eyes without needing additional surgery. The result will be natural-looking and beautiful eyes.

People who want to correct crossed eyes

For those with strabismus (crossed eyes) due to uneven inner corners of the eyes, inner corner eye surgery can help balance the two eyes, resulting in a more natural and beautiful appearance. The doctor will consider and adjust the procedure to suit the facial structure, aiming for a harmonious and symmetrical result.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Inner Corner Eye Surgery

The decision to undergo surgery should consider both the advantages and disadvantages to ensure it meets your needs. Let's look at some things to consider.

Advantages

• Eyes appear wider and brighter.
• Increases confidence when applying makeup.
• Results are natural and permanent.
• Can be combined with double eyelid surgery.

Disadvantages

• Keloid scarring may occur, but it can be treated by massaging the inner corner of the eye, applying scar-reducing creams, or injecting keloids.
• There may be minor scarring, but it can be faded with scar-reducing creams.
• Careful wound care is required.
• Swelling and bruising may occur in the initial period.

Post-operative care for inner corner eye surgery

Post-operative self-care is very important for the outcome. Apply cold compresses for the first 4 days to reduce swelling. After that, apply warm compresses to help the wound heal faster. Sleep on your back with your head elevated on a pillow to reduce swelling. Additionally, massaging the inner corner of the eye is recommended to reduce the risk of keloid formation. If keloids occur, they can be treated with keloid-reducing injections. Avoid rubbing your eyes or touching the surgical wound. Clean your eyes and use medication as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid applying makeup around the eyes until the wound has completely healed, and wear sunglasses when exposed to sunlight.

Summary

Opening the inner corner of the eye is a surgical procedure that helps correct narrow or small eyes, making them appear wider and more beautiful. However, it is not suitable for everyone. The decision should be carefully considered and discussed with a specialist doctor. You can consult the expert ophthalmologists at Sky Clinic, who specialize in double eyelid surgery, opening the inner corner of the eye, correcting ptosis (weak eyelid muscles), rearranging eyelid fat, concealing scars under the eyebrow, and removing under-eye bags, to receive treatment that is appropriate for each individual's problem.