Epicanthoplasty is a surgical procedure that opens the inner corner of the eyes by reducing the epicanthal fold.
It is commonly combined with double eyelid surgery to create wider, more defined eyes.
Korean surgeons specialize in subtle, natural-looking epicanthoplasty that enhances eye balance without overcorrection.

What Is Epicanthoplasty?

Epicanthoplasty (also called inner corner surgery) is a procedure that:

• Removes or reduces the epicanthal fold (skin covering the inner corner of the eye)
• Reveals more of the inner eye
• Makes eyes appear wider and more open

This is one of the most common complementary procedures in Korean eye surgery.

Why Do People Get Epicanthoplasty?

To Make Eyes Look Wider

Opening the inner corner increases the horizontal width of the eyes.

To Enhance Double Eyelid Results

Without epicanthoplasty:

• The crease may look shorter or hidden
• Eyes may still appear small

To Improve Eye Balance

Helps correct:

• Close-set eyes
• Rounded or short eye shapes

What Is the Epicanthal Fold?

The epicanthal fold is a natural skin fold covering the inner corner of the eye.

• Common in many Asian eye structures
• Can make eyes appear shorter or less open
• Varies in thickness and shape

Not everyone needs it removed—this depends on your anatomy and goals.

Types of Epicanthoplasty Techniques

Korean surgeons use different techniques depending on your eye shape:

Z-Plasty (Most Common)

• Repositions skin to open the inner corner
• Minimizes visible scarring

Redraping Method

• Adjusts skin without excessive removal
• Focuses on natural results

Minimal Incision Technique

• Less invasive
• Suitable for mild cases

The goal is always to open the eye without leaving obvious scars.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may benefit from epicanthoplasty if you have:

• Prominent epicanthal folds
• Eyes that appear short or closed
• Close-set eyes
• Hidden or unclear inner crease
• Planning double eyelid surgery

Epicanthoplasty vs Double Eyelid Surgery

Double Eyelid Surgery

• Creates a vertical crease
• Enhances eyelid definition

Epicanthoplasty

• Expands horizontal eye width
• Opens inner corner

Combined Effect

• Larger, brighter, more balanced eyes
• Most common approach in Korea

Cost of Epicanthoplasty in Korea (2026)

• ₩1,000,000 – ₩2,500,000 KRW
  (Approx. $800 – $2,000 USD)

Often discounted when combined with other eye procedures.

Recovery Timeline

First 3–5 Days

• Swelling and mild bruising
• Slight tightness in inner corner

7 Days

• Stitch removal
• Visible improvement begins

2 Weeks

• Most swelling subsides
• Can return to normal activities

1–3 Months

• Final shape settles
• Scar becomes less noticeable

Will There Be Scars?

• Small scars may be present initially
• Typically fade and become barely visible over time
• Korean techniques focus on minimizing scar visibility

Proper aftercare is key for optimal healing.

Risks and Considerations

• Overcorrection (inner corner looks too exposed)
• Asymmetry
• Visible scarring (rare with proper technique)

This is why precise design and experienced surgeons are essential.

Why Korea Is Known for Epicanthoplasty

• Advanced scar-minimizing techniques
• Strong focus on natural aesthetics
• Extensive experience with combined eye surgeries
• Custom design based on facial harmony

Korean surgeons aim to enhance—not exaggerate—the inner eye.

Final Thoughts

Epicanthoplasty is a powerful yet subtle procedure that can significantly enhance eye appearance.

• Makes eyes look wider and more open
• Improves balance and symmetry
• Works best when customized to your face

When done correctly, the result is naturally bigger, brighter eyes—not an obvious surgical change.