Why are my eyes like this if I'm not Asian? (Photo)

Question

I'm French but I don't understand why my eyes do this I am not Asian and no Asian runs in the family is this called something ?

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

Although epicanthal folds are much more common in Asian eyes, they can occur in other ethnicity as well. See following link.

Elbert T. Cheng, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question and picture.  It is difficult for me to appreciate your eyes from that one photo.  If it really bothers you, see a plastic surgeon who specializes in eyes.  Best of luck!

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

What can be seen does suggest some Asian characteristics.  There are genetic testing services that can study your genetic material and determine more information about your family origins.  That might help answer more questions than the speculations of the RealSelf community.

R. Laurence Berkowitz, MD · Answer

This fold of skin can be found in all ethnicities under certain circumstances.  It is often related to the height of the nasal bridge.  Correcting the height of the bridge, when indicated and desirable, will lift or reduce this fold.

John R. Burroughs, MD · Answer

It is hard to tell from your photos, but it appears that you have some override of your lower eyelid muscle.  This can cause what is called epiblepharon or entropion.  We can debulk the tissue through an incision in the lower eyelids just below the lashes.  Botox could be tried as well.  I would see a local eye surgeon that specializes in oculoplastic surgery for a consult.  Best regards.

John McCann, MD, PhD · Answer

Hi Kaitlynndavidson,Thanks for your question and photo. You have what are called "epicanthal folds." These are not necessarily characteristic of Asian eyelids but do created somewhat of a hooded appearance to your medial eyelids. This condition can be difficult to treat surgically. If this is not affecting your vision, I would not likely recommend any intervention. A consultation with a skilled oculoplastic surgeon in your area may help to answer more questions. Good luck!

Why are my eyes like this if I'm not Asian? (Photo)

Answers (6)

More Eyelid Surgery Questions

Upper blepharoplasty after tattoo eyebrow?

Options to fix drooping uneven eyes after revision blepharoplasy?

Is there anything I can do to get rid of the double vision post eyelid surgery due to local anesthesia?

Is Ptosis after upper and lower blepharoplasty caused by mistake during surgery? Will it resolve on its own? (photo)

I am curious how much it would cost me to get under eye surgery for wrinkles?

I have an under eye Jelly Roll and Wrinkles. What is the best treatment is to target this problem? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS