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Surgery · 앞트임

Epicanthoplasty: Inner Corner Eye Surgery

A short procedure that releases the skin fold over the inner eye corner to lengthen the eye and reduce the gap between the eyes.

Quick facts
  • Korean name: 앞트임
  • Procedure time: 30 to 45 minutes
  • Anesthesia: Local anesthesia
  • Sessions: 1
  • Downtime: 5 to 7 days
  • Results: Shape visible after 2 weeks; redness at the scar fades over 3 to 6 months
  • Lasts: Permanent
  • Typical price: ₩800,000–₩1,500,000 (per surgery, both eyes, as standalone)

What is Epicanthoplasty (Inner Corner Surgery)?

Epicanthoplasty (앞트임) reshapes the epicanthal fold, the web of skin that covers the pink inner corner in many East Asian eyes. Releasing it makes the eye look longer and the space between the eyes narrower.

It is often combined with double eyelid surgery, because a strong fold can pull the new crease into a tapered, inside shape.

How it works

Surgeons use small skin flaps, such as the Z-plasty, the redraping method or the 'Park' technique, to move the fold rather than cut straight across it. The aim is a scar that follows natural lines. Typical change is 1 to 3 mm per side.

Who it suits

  • Prominent epicanthal folds
  • Wide distance between the eyes
  • People getting a double eyelid who want an in-out or parallel fold

Who should skip it or wait

  • Close-set eyes, where it can look too sharp
  • Patients prone to thick or keloid scars
  • Anyone who wants the corner fully exposed (this tends to look unnatural)

Side effects and risks

  • Red or raised scar at the inner corner
  • Over-opening that looks harsh
  • Asymmetry
  • Hard to reverse if you change your mind (revision epicanthoplasty is complex)

Aftercare

  • Keep the corner dry for 48 hours
  • Apply antibiotic ointment to the stitches
  • Use silicone scar gel after stitch removal for 2 to 3 months
  • Use sunscreen on the scar

Planning around your trip

Plan 6 to 7 days in Seoul so stitches can come out around day 5; flying immediately after removal is fine.

Plastic Surgery clinics near Apgujeong

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

Epicanthoplasty (Inner Corner Surgery) price in Apgujeong

₩800,000–₩1,500,000
per surgery, both eyes, as standalone

Typical range at clinics around Apgujeong, Sinsa and Cheongdam, checked 2026-10. Source: Korea Experience, Korea Plastic Surgery Cost Guide 2026. Cosmetic treatments in Korea carry 10% VAT; ask whether a quote includes it.

Epicanthoplasty (Inner Corner Surgery) questions

How many millimetres will it open?

Most surgeons plan 1 to 3 mm per side. More than that tends to show too much of the pink caruncle and looks unnatural.

Will I see a scar at the inner corner?

It is pink for a few months and then usually fades to a faint line. Thick-skinned or keloid-prone patients see more scarring.

Can it be undone if I don't like it?

Inner corner restoration surgery exists but is difficult and rarely brings back the original shape fully. Start conservatively.

Is it cheaper when done with double eyelid surgery?

Usually, yes. Many clinics list a combined price, which saves both a second sedation fee and a second recovery.

Does Epicanthoplasty (Inner Corner Surgery) hurt?

The local anesthetic injection stings briefly. After surgery most people feel mild soreness for 1 to 2 days.

Is outer corner surgery the same thing?

No. Lateral canthoplasty (뒤트임) works on the outer corner and has a higher relapse rate. Epicanthoplasty changes only the inner corner.

Plan your visit

Get a quote before you fly

Send the treatment, your dates and any past procedures. We reply in English with options, prices and clinic locations near Apgujeong Station.