Epicanthoplasty in Seoul: Opening the Inner Corner of the Eye
The short answer
Epicanthoplasty reduces the epicanthal fold, the web of skin over the inner corner of the eye, so more of the inner corner shows and the eye looks longer and more open. In Gangnam it typically costs about KRW 1–2 million, takes 30–60 minutes under local anesthesia, and stitches come out at about 5–7 days. The small inner corner scar is pink at first and usually fades over 6–12 months.
Key facts
- What it treats: A prominent epicanthal fold over the inner corner
- Typical cost in Gangnam: About KRW 1–2 million
- Procedure time: About 30–60 minutes
- Anesthesia: Local, with optional sedation
- Techniques: Z-plasty, redraping or W-plasty
- Stitches out: About 5–7 days
- Scar maturity: About 6–12 months
What the epicanthal fold is
The epicanthal fold is a vertical web of skin that runs from the upper lid down over the inner corner of the eye. It is common in East Asian eyelids and is a normal feature. A prominent fold hides the inner corner (and the small pink caruncle), can make the eyes look shorter or further apart, and can stop a double eyelid crease from showing at its inner end.
In epicanthoplasty the surgeon uses a small, carefully designed incision at the inner corner, often a Z-plasty or skin redraping pattern. The skin of the fold is lifted, tight bands of the underlying orbicularis (the ring-shaped eyelid muscle) are loosened, and the skin is redraped and closed so the fold no longer pulls across the corner. The amount of opening is planned in millimetres, and conservative changes usually look most natural.
Most often chosen for and combined with
- A fold that hides the inner corner
- Eyes that look far apart or short
- A double eyelid crease that disappears at the inner end
It is most often combined with double eyelid surgery and sometimes with outer corner work for balance.
The procedure, step by step
Design and incision
The surgeon measures the distance between your inner corners and chooses a technique. Z-plasty rearranges small triangular flaps to release tension; redraping methods move the skin along its natural direction and can leave less visible scars.
Release and close
Tight muscle bands are released, and the skin is closed with very fine stitches.
Where the incisions are made
At the inner corner only, in a small pattern of a few millimetres.
How the scar heals over 12 months
The inner corner is a common place for scars to stay pink longer than elsewhere on the lid. Expect redness for 1–3 months, gradual fading by 6 months and a fine scar by 12 months. Silicone gel and sun protection help.
Recovery timeline
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Mild swelling and tightness at the corner |
| Days 5–7 | Stitches out |
| Weeks 2–6 | Pinkness remains, covered with makeup |
| Months 6–12 | Scar softens and fades |
Is it right for you?
A good fit if you
- Have a clear fold over the inner corner
- Have eyes that are not already widely spaced
- Can follow scar care for a few months
Another option may suit you better if
- Your eyes look short at the outer end: see lateral canthoplasty
- Your fold is mild and your inner eye distance is already narrow
Risks to discuss at your consultation
Ask about visible or raised scars, over-correction that exposes too much pink tissue (very hard to reverse), asymmetry and recurrence of the fold. Ask how many millimetres the surgeon plans to open and why.
Epicanthoplasty cost in Seoul
Alone, typical Gangnam prices are KRW 1–2 million. As an add-on to double eyelid surgery it may be discounted. Read canthoplasty or epicanthoplasty to compare.
Epicanthoplasty vs. lateral canthoplasty
| Epicanthoplasty | Lateral canthoplasty | |
|---|---|---|
| Corner | Inner | Outer |
| Main effect | Reveals hidden inner corner | Lengthens or softens outer corner |
| Relapse | Uncommon | More common |
| Typical cost | KRW 1–2 million | KRW 1.5–3 million |
This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Prices are typical ranges reported by Gangnam clinics in 2026 and vary by clinic, doctor and treatment plan; confirm directly with the clinic.
Patient questions
Frequently asked questions
Will epicanthoplasty make my eyes look too close?
Over-correction can, which is why surgeons measure your inner eye distance and plan small changes.
Are the scars noticeable?
They are usually pink for a few months, then fade. Modern redraping techniques aim to minimise them.
Can it be reversed?
Reversal is difficult, so conservative planning is important.
Can I combine it with double eyelid surgery?
Yes, this is the most common combination in Seoul.
How long is the stay in Seoul?
About 7 days for stitch removal and a check.
Not sure which Gangnam clinic is right for you?
Tell us your goals, budget and travel dates. Our English-speaking coordinators compare doctor-led clinics and usually reply with free quotes within 24 hours.