Epicanthoplasty

Epicanthoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure performed on the inner or outer corners of the eyes (the medial and lateral canthus respectively).

Its most common application is to widen or shorten the eyes depending on the patient’s expectations.

Epicanthoplasty is commonly paired with double eyelid surgery to better sculpt and alter the shape of the eyes when either one alone is deemed insufficient.

Types of Epicanthoplasty

Epicanthoplasty is generally divided into 2 types: Medial and Lateral Epicanthoplasty, which are performed on the inner and outer corners of the eyes respectively.

Medial Epicanthoplasty

Medial Epicanthoplasty is performed on the inner corners of the eye, on the side closer to the nose. It is most commonly performed to remove the epicanthic fold, which is a fold of skin from the upper eyelids covering the inner corners of the eye. This fold is very common in people of East-Asian descent, and commonly associated with the “East-Asian Look” However, in some cases, this fold can increase the apparent distance between the eyes, which some consider unattractive. Medial Epicanthoplasty, in this case, can alter the epicanthic fold to make the eyes appear wider and closer to each other.

Also, the epicanthic fold can sometimes conceal existing double eyelids either partially or completely, giving the bearer hooded/hidden double eyelids or tapered double eyelids. In these cases, Medial Epicanthoplasty can address these and either reveal the hidden double eyelids or change the tapered crease to a parallel one

Lateral Epicanthoplasty

Sometimes just referred to as Lateral Canthoplasty, this is basically Epicanthoplasty performed on the outer corners of the eye, on the further side from the nose.

Lateral Epicanthplasty can be performed for several desired effects, which can include

  • Enlarging or shrinking the eyes horizontally.
  • Raising or lowering the lateral corners of the eyes to change the general look and feel of a person’s gaze.

Surgery Procedure

Epicanthoplasty is usually performed under local anaesthesia.

The surgeon will carefully make a small incision on the medial or lateral canthus as required. Based on the patient’s expectations and facial features, the surgery will sculpt the skin around the canthus area and stitch open incisions as required. The whole procedure will last about an hour.

Possible risks and complications

Epicanthoplasty is a very safe procedure in the hands of an experienced surgeon and complications are very rare. Nonetheless, it is still important to know the risks involved

  • The lacrimal glands (tear glands) may become damaged as they are located around the corners of the eyes.
  • Nerves and blood vessels around the eye may be disturbed or damaged
  • Surgical wounds can become infected or inflamed

However, all these complications are rare and can be easily avoided with skilled and experienced hands. Be sure to consult a reputable plastic surgeon for your Epicanthoplasty procedures.

Call us today at (65) 6532 2400, Whatsapp us at (65) 8318 6332 or email us at thecliffordclinic@gmail.com to book an appointment or enquire on any of our cosmetic services and treatments.

FAQ

Is there any downtime?
There will be mild to moderate bruising and swelling around the eyes after the procedure. These will usually subside in about 2 weeks. Your eyes might experience some irritation depending on the condition, but this will ease in a few days. Most people are able to return to daily activities in less than a week.
Is the procedure painful?
The surgery is performed under local anaesthesia so there will be minimal pain and discomfort.
What should I take note of before the procedure?
You may need to stop using products which alter the shape of your eyelids (eyelid tape, eyelid glue) for about 2 weeks before. This will ensure that the skin around your eyes are in their natural state during the procedure and reduce the chances of complications. Avoid tobacco and smoking for about a month before the procedure. Please inform the surgeon of any medication/supplements you are currently taking. As with all surgical procedures, you should avoid blood-thinning and other related medication/supplements before the surgery to prevent excessive bleeding.
What should I take note of after the procedure?

The surgeon may advise you to avoid contact lenses for several days after the procedure to facilitate wound healing.

Eye makeup and other similar cosmetic products should be avoided for up to 2 weeks as advised by the surgeon.

Please avoid exerting excessive force around your eyes (rubbing or using makeup remover) until the wounds are completely healed. This may take up to several weeks depending on individual conditions.

Am I suitable for Epicanthoplasty/Is Medial or Lateral Epicanthoplasty more suitable for me?
In general, epicanthoplasty is suitable for anyone who wishes to enlarge, reduce or alter the shape of their eyes, and have no major health issues. Specifically, Medial Epicanthoplasty is suitable if you:
  • Have an epicanthic fold that you wish to remove for any of the following reasons
- Reveal concealed double eyelids - Changing a tapered eyelid to a parallel one - Narrow the space in between your eyes
  • On the other hand, Lateral Epicanthoplasty is more suitable if you:
- Have no epicanthic fold but still wish to alter the width of your eyes. Medial Epicanthoplasty is usually not recommended for those without epicanthic folds. - Wish to raise/lower the outer corners of your eyes. Additionally, you may wish to consider the double eyelid surgery or infrabrow lift. You may consult our plastic surgeon regarding this and he will provide you with professional advice accordingly.