Epicanthoplasty

Epicanthoplasty

Epicanthal fold referred to the skin fold that covers the inner corner of the eye. Epicanthal fold is common in the Oriental population but is rare among Caucasians. Epicanthal fold makes the eye appear shorter and smaller than it actually is and makes both the eyes appear farther apart. For those with double eyelid crease, the tension in the epicanthal fold pulls the double eyelid crease downward to join the upper eyelid margin, forming a tapered double eyelid crease instead of a parallel double eyelid crease.

Epicanthoplasty is a minor surgery to remove the epicanthal fold in order to open up inner  corner of the eye. The aim is to make the eye appears longer and bigger. In the presence of a thick epicanthal fold, epicanthoplasty may be required during double eyelid surgery in order to create a parallel double eyelid crease.

Preparation

1. 1. 1. 1. Inform the doctor of any pre-existing medical conditions and drug allergy. All medical conditions must be treated and stabilized before surgery.

         2. Stop smoking at least one week before surgery. Smoking is harmful to wound healing and increases the risks of other post-operation complications.

         3. Stop the following medications and supplements from one week before surgery until one week after surgery.

            1. All supplements containing vitamin E, ginseng, ginkgo, garlic, fish oil, and other ingredients that increase bleeding during the procedure. Other supplements, traditional medicine, and herbs, in which ingredients are unknown, have to stop as well.

            2. Medicine that increases bleeding during the procedure such as aspirin, NSAIDs, and warfarin. However, you may need to consult your physician who prescribed the medication before you stop them.

         4. On the day of surgery, wear simple and comfortable clothing and do not wear any makeup. Do not wear any jewelry and metal objects on the face and body.

         5. Bring a pair of sunglasses on the day of surgery for use after surgery.

         6. Don’t wear contact lenses on the day of surgery.

Surgery

Duration: Half an hour

Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia

Hospitalization: Not required.

Recovery*: Back to work in 3 days, light exercise after 3-5 days, heavy exercise after 2-3 weeks. * The actual speed of recovery may vary from person to person.

Surgery Technique: The surgeon makes a small incision around the inner corner of the eye to remove the epicanthal fold. We employ the ‘hidden-scar epicanthoplasty’ technique, where the scar is located behind and below the eyelid margin and not on the external skin around the inner corner of the eye.

Post-operative Care**

1. 1. 1. What to expect: Swelling usually peaks on the second to third day after surgery and will gradually subside after that. Post-operative pain is usually minimal.

      2. General care:

         1. Apply cold pack in the first 3 days and then warm pack in the following 3 days. Elevate the head during sleep to reduce swelling.

         2. Avoid smoking for at least one month. Smoking increases the risk of wound complications.

         3. Use sunglasses for protection when going outdoors.

         4. Good rest and adequate sleep are helpful for a speedy recovery.

         5. Be relaxed and calm. Contact the clinic if there are any queries.

         6. Don’t use contact lenses for at least 1-2 weeks.

      3. Medicine: Finish the oral antibiotics as prescribed. Take the painkiller when necessary.

      4. Wound care: Clean the wound with a clean cotton tip soaked with sterile water/saline. Apply antibiotic ointment. No wound dressings are required.

      5. Physical activity: Avoid heavy physical activities and exercises for at least one month.

      6. Follow-up: Come back one week after surgery for suture removal and review.

      7. Emergency: If there is heavy bleeding, a rapid increase in swelling or severe pain, contact the clinic/doctor for advice immediately.

** The instructions in this list are only for general guidance. If you have any specific queries or concerns during the post-operative recovery, please contact the clinic for further advice.