Presentation on Epicanthoplasty Methods to Reduce Side Effects, July 2016

This was a presentation from the July 2016 Oculoplastic Surgery Research Group Symposium.

Let’s take a look at the epicanthal fold (Mongolian fold).

The front of the eye is covered by the epicanthal fold in Figure A; performing an epicanthoplasty results in Figure B. This was cited from the paper below.

Taken from Professor Hwang Kun’s paper. In the case of the epicanthal fold, the orbicularis oculi muscle area at the front must be addressed for a successful epicanthoplasty.

However, if an epicanthoplasty is performed excessively, the eyes can look unnatural.

If over-corrected, the lacrimal caruncle (red flesh) becomes too visible, leading to an awkward appearance.

Usually, the goal is to achieve a natural look without over-opening the inner corner.

This is taken from the conference presentation slides. When the lacrimal caruncle is excessively exposed, it can be improved through epicanthal fold restoration. Refer to the 2014 presentation.

Epicanthal folds come in various shapes as shown below.

It is more important to avoid creating side effects than it is to treat them, right?

A photo with the esteemed Chairman Park Seung-ha.

2016 seems to have been a very busy year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes side effects during epicanthoplasty (front canthoplasty)?

Excessive incision is the main cause. If epicanthoplasty is performed too aggressively to eliminate the Mongolian fold, the caruncle at the inner corner of the eye may be excessively exposed, leading to an unnatural appearance.

What is the principle behind epicanthoplasty?

The procedure involves managing the orbicularis oculi muscle at the front of the eye. By appropriately adjusting the muscles at the inner corner of the eye, which are covered by the Mongolian fold, the procedure aims to create a more open and refreshed eye appearance.

What should I do if the caruncle is excessively exposed due to epicanthoplasty side effects?

It can be improved through Mongolian fold restoration surgery. Performing a restoration procedure to close the inner corner of the eye that appears unnatural due to excessive caruncle exposure can help restore a natural eye shape.

What is the most important aspect of epicanthoplasty?

It is most important to perform the surgery naturally to prevent side effects. Rather than treating side effects after they occur, the key is to open only an appropriate amount from the beginning to prevent excessive exposure of the caruncle.