Epicanthoplasty

Epicanthoplasty

Open the inner or outer corners of the eyes for a wider, brighter appearance. Often combined with double eyelid surgery for synergistic results.

Overview

Wider, brighter eyes — without looking overdone.

Epicanthoplasty at Link Plastic Surgery in Seoul widens the inner eye by releasing the epicanthal fold, creating a longer, more open horizontal eye shape. Board-certified surgeons use precise suture placement to minimize visible scarring at the inner corner. Medial epicanthoplasty removes or repositions the epicanthal fold (Mongolian fold) that covers the inner corner, revealing more of the eye horizontally. Lateral canthoplasty extends the outer corner for additional length and almond-shaped definition. These procedures are frequently combined with double eyelid surgery for comprehensive eye enhancement.

Epicanthoplasty result
At a Glance

Procedure Time

30–60 minutes, depending on whether medial, lateral, or combined with double eyelid surgery.

Anesthesia

Local anesthesia with optional IV sedation. Twilight sedation when combined with double eyelid surgery.

Recovery

Sutures removed at day 5–7. Presentable for most settings within 2 weeks. Final shape settles over 2–3 months.

Results

Permanent widening and definition of the eye corners. Results are stable and do not revert without revision surgery.

Types
Three approaches for different goals
Medial Epicanthoplasty
Most common

Medial Epicanthoplasty

Removes or repositions the epicanthal fold (Mongolian fold) covering the inner corner, revealing more of the eye horizontally.

  • Wider, more open inner corner
  • Natural-looking exposure
  • Often combined with double eyelid
Lateral Canthoplasty
Elongation

Lateral Canthoplasty

Extends the outer corner for additional length and almond-shaped definition.

  • Elongated, elegant eye shape
  • Horizontal widening
  • Minimal visible scarring
Lower Canthoplasty
Lower corner

Lower Canthoplasty

Adjusts the angle of the lower outer corner via a transconjunctival approach.

  • Softens upward-slanting eyes
  • Creates a gentler gaze
  • No external scarring
Process
How it works
1 Consultation

Consultation

Your surgeon assesses your canthal anatomy, ethnic proportions, and desired eye shape. Together you determine the best type of epicanthoplasty for your goals.

2 Design & Planning

Design & Planning

The surgeon maps the precise incision points to achieve natural widening without over-exposure. If combining with double eyelid surgery, both procedures are planned together.

3 Surgery

Surgery

Performed under local anesthesia with sedation. A board-certified plastic surgeon and anesthesiologist work together throughout the procedure.

4 Aftercare

Aftercare

Follow-up visits with your attending surgeon. Stitch removal at 5–7 days. Cold compresses and head elevation during initial recovery.

Link PS TV
Watch real cases

Our surgeons explain procedures, share insights, and discuss real patient cases.

Epicanthoplasty case 1
Epicanthoplasty Explained
Dr. Jung Min Su
Epicanthoplasty case 2
Eye Corner Surgery Real Review
Dr. Jung Min Su
Epicanthoplasty case 3
Natural Epicanthoplasty Results
Dr. Sung Ha Min
FAQ
Common questions
What is the difference between medial epicanthoplasty and lateral canthoplasty?

Medial epicanthoplasty reshapes the inner corner of the eye by reducing or repositioning the epicanthal fold, making the inner eye appear more open. Lateral canthoplasty reshapes the outer corner to create a longer or more elongated appearance. These are different procedures and may be performed separately or together depending on your anatomy and goals.

Can epicanthoplasty be combined with double eyelid surgery?

Yes. Medial epicanthoplasty is commonly combined with double eyelid surgery when the epicanthal fold partly covers the inner eye. Combining procedures can reduce the need for separate recovery periods, although initial swelling may be greater than with one procedure alone. Whether both are recommended depends on your anatomy and desired result.

Will the scar be visible?

The incision is designed to be as discreet as possible around the eye corners, but it can be visible during early healing. Redness and firmness typically improve over several weeks to months, and scars usually continue to soften for up to 12 months. Scar visibility varies depending on surgical technique, skin type, and healing. Lower canthoplasty often uses a transconjunctival approach with no external incision.

How long is recovery, and how long should I stay in Korea?

Sutures are removed about 5–7 days after surgery. Most swelling and bruising improve within 1–2 weeks, but residual swelling can last several weeks. We recommend staying in Korea for 7–10 days for follow-up and suture removal. The general eye shape becomes clearer over 1–3 months, while scar maturation continues for up to 12 months.

Is epicanthoplasty reversible?

Revision or partial reversal may be possible in some cases, but it is generally more complex than the original surgery. The degree of correction depends on your previous procedure, scar tissue, and available tissue in the inner corner. A detailed consultation is needed to determine whether revision is appropriate and what result is realistically achievable.

What are the risks of epicanthoplasty?

As with any surgery, risks include swelling, bruising, asymmetry, under- or over-correction, visible scarring, and the need for revision. In some patients, there may be partial relapse over time. Your surgeon will review these risks based on your anatomy and medical history during consultation.

Will the result look natural?

The goal is to create a more open eye shape while keeping the result balanced with your facial features. A natural-looking result depends on careful surgical planning and avoiding over-correction. During consultation, your surgeon will explain the expected change and whether a subtle or more defined result is realistic for your anatomy.

How do I manage aftercare once I return home?

Before departure, our team provides written aftercare instructions covering incision care, prescribed ointment or eye drops, swelling reduction, and when you can resume makeup, contact lenses, and exercise. We offer remote follow-up via WhatsApp. If you develop severe pain, sudden swelling, bleeding, or vision changes, seek urgent local medical care and contact our clinic immediately.

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