Medial epicanthoplasty using the palpebral margin incision method

Abstract

Epicanthal deformity is one of the most frequently encountered cosmetic problems in Asian people. Herein, we introduce a new method for correction of epicanthal folds, which always is performed in combination with double eyelidplasty. First, through upper and lower palpebral margin incisions, we release and excise the connective and orbicularis oculi muscle dense fibres underlying the epicanthal folds, as well as the superficial head of the medial canthal ligament. After repositioning the medial canthus in a double eyelidplastic procedure, we cut off the redundant skin tissue and close the incisions. 82 epicanthoplasties have been performed during the past 2 years. Follow-up time ranged from 1 to 32 months. Postsurgery scars were invisible in all cases. All patients were satisfied with the results. No recurrence of the epicanthal fold was observed. The new method introduced has advantages in avoiding scar formation and is an especially suitable approach for epicanthoplasty in Asian patients.