Types of Epicanthoplasty in Korea [Jayjun Plastic Surgery]

 Types of Epicanthoplasty in Korea [Jayjun Plastic Surgery]

It is said that the eyes make up 80% of a person's appearance, greatly influencing their image. Therefore, large and clearly opened eyes can make the overall impression distinct and sophisticated, but many people are concerned when their eyes appear small or constricted compared to their face, which can make their impression less refined.

Since small eyes, as opposed to large and clear ones, can be seen as less attractive or even unappealing, people consider procedures like double eyelid surgery or epicanthoplasty. This might be because even minor changes to the eyes can transform one's image. In the past, many people considered only double eyelid surgery for small and narrow eyes.

However, as preferences for double eyelids become more detailed and people seek delicate corrections to the shape, the number of individuals considering epicanthoplasty for a natural transformation is increasing.

What is Epicanthoplasty?

Epicanthoplasty is a surgical method that opens up the front, back, top, or bottom of the eyes, making them look larger and clearer. If you are satisfied with your existing double eyelid line, you can opt for epicanthoplasty alone, or it can be combined with double eyelid surgery if you desire changes to the double eyelid line as well.

Types of Epicanthoplasty

Depending on the location and direction of the procedure, epicanthoplasty is divided into medial, upper, lateral, and lower epicanthoplasty. In Korea, many people have small and constricted eyes due to the Mongolian fold covering the front of the eyes and the double eyelid line turning inward, making medial epicanthoplasty a common solution. If the space between the eyes is wide or the eyes are small, removing the skin fold (Mongolian fold) covering the inner corner of the eyes can naturally lengthen the eye and create a larger, more refreshing appearance.

Generally, medial epicanthoplasty involves opening up the front of the eye, while upper epicanthoplasty improves the constricted feel at a 45-degree angle of the eye. Medial epicanthoplasty opens up the area covered by the Mongolian fold on the front of the eyelid, making the double eyelid line visible and extending the horizontal length of the eye. Upper epicanthoplasty, meanwhile, cleans up the skin covering the front line of the double eyelid without narrowing the horizontal length, creating a refreshing look.

In some cases, combining more than one type of epicanthoplasty can enhance the synergy effect. A crucial aspect of medial epicanthoplasty is to expose the red tissue called 'caruncle' at the front of the eye just enough for a more natural appearance. On the other hand, if the eyes are small and narrow or if the space between the eyes is too narrow, making it difficult to enlarge the eyes with medial epicanthoplasty, lateral and lower epicanthoplasties can be effective alternatives.

For eyes with a short horizontal width, it's challenging to achieve an effect of longer or significantly larger eyes through double eyelid surgery. Lateral epicanthoplasty typically involves extending the outer corners of the eyes outward to increase the horizontal length. Tailoring this procedure to an individual's eye condition can create an overall larger and more open eye appearance.

Hence, lateral epicanthoplasty can be particularly effective for eyes that appear crowded due to a shorter width. To improve eyes that appear small and fierce due to their short vertical length, lower epicanthoplasty can be effective. For eyes that appear small and sharp due to upturned outer corners, lower epicanthoplasty can soften the appearance by lowering the outer third of the lower eyelid.

Most people who consider epicanthoplasty aim to transform their small, constricted eyes into a different eye shape, often preferring a significant change during surgery. However, excessive opening and enlargement can lead to side effects or unnatural outcomes, so caution is necessary.

To achieve a natural change with epicanthoplasty, it's important to discuss desired double eyelid size, eyelid thickness, eye length, and overall harmony with a medical professional before planning the surgery. During the consultation, presenting a clear image of what you desire can help determine the feasibility of epicanthoplasty and set the direction for the surgery. If you're concerned about small, constricted eyes, visiting our clinic to receive thorough consultation from medical professionals with extensive knowledge in eye anatomy through various Korean epicanthoplasty cases is recommended.