Epicanthoplasty (Inner Corner Eye Surgery) in Seoul, Korea
Epicanthoplasty reshapes the fold of skin at the inner corner of the eye to open the eyes horizontally, reduce the distance between them and create a softer, more defined eye shape. At The Beauty Plastic Surgery in Gangnam, it is planned by board-certified plastic surgeons to look natural, never artificially wide.
- Procedure time
- About 30–60 minutes
- Anesthesia
- Local, with optional sedation
- Stitch removal
- Around 5–7 days
- Return to work
- Usually 5–7 days
- Stay in Seoul
- About 7 days recommended
What is epicanthoplasty?
Epicanthoplasty is a minor eyelid procedure that releases or redrapes the epicanthal fold, the small web of skin covering the inner corner of the eye. By revealing more of the inner corner, it makes the eyes appear longer, more open and better proportioned, and it often helps a double eyelid crease look smoother at the inner end.
An epicanthal fold is very common in East Asian eyes, but it also appears in people of other ethnic backgrounds. When the fold is prominent, it can hide the pink caruncle at the inner corner, make the eyes look small or far apart, and cause the double eyelid crease to start low or "tuck in" at the inner corner.
Epicanthoplasty is frequently combined with double eyelid surgery or ptosis correction, and sometimes with lateral canthoplasty when a patient wants to lengthen the eye on both sides. It is one of the procedures we offer under eye corner surgery.
Who is a good candidate?
You may benefit if you have
- A visible epicanthal fold covering the inner corner of the eye
- Eyes that look small, round or set far apart
- A double eyelid crease that disappears into the inner corner
- A wish for a longer, more almond-shaped eye
- Good general health and realistic expectations
It may not be right if
- Your eyes are already close-set or the inner corner is fully visible
- You are prone to raised or keloid scarring
- You want a dramatic, very sharp inner corner
- You have an active eye infection or uncontrolled dry eye
Your surgeon measures the distance between your eyes and the size of the fold to decide whether epicanthoplasty will truly improve your proportions.
Epicanthoplasty techniques we use
The technique is chosen for your fold shape and skin quality, with the goal of opening the eye while keeping the scar as discreet as possible.
| Skin redraping | The fold is released and the skin is redistributed along the natural eyelid line. Often preferred for a mild to moderate fold because it keeps the scar along the lid margin and gives a soft, natural result. |
|---|---|
| Z-plasty / modified Z-plasty | Small triangular flaps are transposed to lengthen the inner corner and reduce tension. Useful for a stronger fold where more release is needed. |
| Combined with double eyelid surgery | When performed together, the inner end of the new crease can be designed to flow naturally, avoiding the "tucked-in" look. |
| Revision epicanthoplasty | For patients whose previous surgery left the eyes looking too close, too sharp or with a visible scar, a reverse or revision procedure can restore a softer inner corner. See revision eyelid surgery. |
How epicanthoplasty works at our clinic
-
Online review
Send clear front and close-up photos of your eyes. A doctor reviews them and explains whether epicanthoplasty suits you.
-
Consultation & design
In Gangnam, your surgeon measures your eyes and marks a conservative, natural design with you before surgery.
-
Surgery
Performed under local anesthesia, with optional sedation, usually in under an hour. You go home the same day.
-
Recovery & check-up
Stitches are removed after about a week, and we stay in touch after you fly home to review your healing.
Recovery timeline
| Days 1–3 | Mild swelling and bruising around the inner corners. Cold compresses and keeping your head elevated help. |
|---|---|
| Days 5–7 | Stitches are removed. Most patients return to daily activities and light makeup after removal. |
| Weeks 2–4 | Most visible swelling settles. The scar is pink and may feel slightly firm. |
| Months 3–6 | The scar softens and fades; the final shape of the inner corner becomes clear. |
Recovery varies between individuals. Avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, saunas and alcohol for at least two weeks, and follow the aftercare instructions your surgeon gives you.
Risks and how we minimise them
As with any surgery, epicanthoplasty carries risks. The most discussed are a visible or raised scar at the inner corner, asymmetry, over-correction that makes the eyes look too close or sharp, and, rarely, recurrence of the fold. Infection and bleeding are uncommon.
We reduce these risks with a conservative design, careful tension-free closure, fine sutures, and scar care after stitch removal. Your surgeon will discuss your individual risks in detail during consultation.
Epicanthoplasty FAQ
Will epicanthoplasty leave a visible scar?
Can epicanthoplasty be done with double eyelid surgery?
Will my eyes look too close together?
How long should I stay in Korea?
Is epicanthoplasty painful?
Can a previous epicanthoplasty be corrected?
Related eye procedures
Find out if epicanthoplasty is right for you
Send us a few photos of your eyes. A doctor will review them and recommend the most natural approach for your eye shape.
