Modified inverted 'L' epicanthoplasty combined with incisional blepharoplasty for epicanthal folds and single eyelids: a clinical outcomes study

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the clinical outcomes of a modified inverted 'L' epicanthoplasty combined with incisional blepharoplasty for correcting epicanthal folds and single eyelids in patients of Mongoloid descent.

Methods: This observational study included 100 female patients aged 20 to 38 years, who underwent the combined procedure from January 2018 to September 2024 at Ganzhou People's Hospital. The modified technique utilized a specific marking and incision approach to address the epicanthal folds and create a double eyelid, with an emphasis on minimizing scarring and optimizing aesthetic outcomes. Local anesthesia was used, followed by meticulous dissection, fixation of the medial canthal ligament, and careful skin closure. Postoperative care included pressure dressing and ice packs, with follow-up visits at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months. The observed indexes included the total effectiveness rate, changes in palpebral fissure measurements, patient satisfaction, and the incidence of postoperative adverse events.

Results: The overall effectiveness rate was 97.0%, with 60.0% of patients showing significant improvement and 37% achieving moderate outcomes. Three patients (3.00%) were dissatisfied with the outcomes. Postoperative palpebral fissure measurements showed significant improvement. Follow-up assessments indicated a high patient satisfaction rate of 97.0%, with minor complications in two cases, which were managed conservatively.

Conclusion: The modified inverted 'L' epicanthoplasty combined with incisional blepharoplasty is an effective and aesthetically pleasing procedure for correcting epicanthal folds and creating double eyelids. Its simplicity, minimal scaring, and high patient satisfaction make it a valuable approach in oculoplastic surgery.

Keywords: Epicanthoplasty; aesthetic surgery; blepharoplasty; medial canthal correction; mongoloid descent.

Figure 1

Design of medial canthal incision before surgery and the surgical outcome.

Figure 2

Schematic diagram of the surgical plan.

Figure 3

Photographs showing the reduction of the intercanthal distance, the absence of scars at the medial canthi, and the natural appearance of the double eyelids. A: Preoperative photo; B: Postoperative photo.