Eyelid fold near inner eye - how can I improve this area? (Photos)

Question

As i have gotten older the skin near my inner eyelid has begun folding over. It bothers me and was never an issue until this year.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

For many women as we age our brow starts to drift down.  This can make our upper lids appear heavy and the skin can become redundant.  In these cases a brow lift is indicated to correct the brow position.  In some cases an upper blepharoplasty is also recommended to remove excess skin and refresh the look.  I've included a video on this topic that I hope you find helpful.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Dear Diligent,

What you’re noticing is a fold of skin toward the inner corner of your eyelid — often referred to as an epicanthal fold. As we age, subtle changes in skin elasticity, brow position, and eyelid support can cause these folds to become more prominent, even if they weren’t noticeable before.

There are surgical options to address this, but in someone your age, we’d usually look at conservative, targeted approaches first. Sometimes, a carefully planned upper blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) can smooth this area, and in certain cases, combining it with a brow lift can further open and refresh the eye. The exact plan would depend on your anatomy, skin quality, and goals, so an in-person exam is essential to determine the best approach.

Summary:  The fold you’re seeing is an epicanthal fold. It’s common with age, and options range from small surgical adjustments to a combination of brow lift and eyelid surgery — the right choice depends on your unique anatomy.

Earl Stephenson, Jr, MD, DDS, MBA
ESJ Aesthetics — "Where Confidence Takes Shape!"

Eyelid fold near inner eye - how can I improve this area? (Photos)

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Eyelid fold near inner eye - how can I improve this area? (Photos)

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.