Is it possible to define/extend/re-angle the inner canthus? (Photo)

Question

A teardrop-shaped inner canthus is a desirable trait, so is it possible to recreate it with surgery?

Randy Wong, MD · Answer

A version of the Mustarde "jumping man" flap can be used to alter the medial epicanthal region to extend the palpebral fissure toward the nose.  There may be risk of visible scar if the tissues are not handled gently, but it is possible to angle the canthal fissure to create the teardrop shape you seek.  Best to review your surgeon's experience with this technique before deciding on any procedure of this delicate nature.

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

The answer is no.  Now surgeons are very enterprising.  Depending on how hard you look, you may very well find a surgeon willing to try.  This is not a place to let someone experiment with your face.  South Korean surgeon perform so-called "love band" surgery.  This thickens the eyelid margin.  It is sort of an anime look.  I am now seeing people who need to have these procedures reversed.  Several years ago one described a theoretical treatment to manipulate the eyelid like you are showing.  This was never turned into a service but fillers could be used to try to accomplish this look.  Using Restylane, the service would be reversible.

Reza Momeni, MD, FACS · Answer

The inner can thus area is a very important area from a functional standpoint.  It not only anchors the upper and lower eyelids, it also is the location where your tears drain out of the eye area and into the nose (this is the "gutter system" of the eyeball, so you don't constantly have tears run down your cheeks).Making small adjustments to this area like you've done on PhotoShop is a great computer exercise, but in reality it cannot be accomplished surgically with enough predictability and safety to make it worth undergoing.My advice is, don't let any surgeon put a knife to this area.Good luck,RM

Gerard Lambe, MBChB · Answer

Thanks you for an interesting question. This area is not usually addressed in standard upper or lower eyelid surgery as the medial canthus is where the tears drain, technically known as the lacrimal apparatus. Surgery in this area would cary significant risk of damaging this so you should carefully way the risks against the cosmetic benefits. You should discuss with a qualified plastic or oculoplastic surgeon and ask to see results and full details of any complications before proceeding. Best wishes

Is it possible to define/extend/re-angle the inner canthus? (Photo)

Answers (4)

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