Can eye corner surgery make your eyes look bigger?

Sep 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Renrong
Introduction
Epicanthoplasty can indeed visually enlarge the eyes, but the principle is not "enlarging the eyeball." Instead, it works by lengthening the eye fissure and adjusting the inner and outer canthal angles to create a more open eye shape. After surgery, keep the incision dry and remove stitches after seven days. Avoid eye makeup and wear frame-style sunglasses to protect against UV exposure for three months. After daily cleaning, apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment; if persistent redness, swelling, or discharge occurs, return for a follow-up promptly.

Generally speaking, epicanthoplasty can indeed make the eyes appear larger visually. However, this effect does not come from "enlarging the eyeball," but rather from lengthening the eye fissure and adjusting the inner and outer canthal angles to create a more open and natural eye shape. The details are as follows:

Epicanthoplasty includes two types: medial epicanthoplasty and lateral canthoplasty. Medial epicanthoplasty removes excess epicanthal skin to shorten the distance between the nasal bridge and the inner corner of the eye, while lateral canthoplasty extends the outer corner of the eye to increase horizontal eye exposure. These procedures are often performed in combination with double eyelid surgery, creating a cumulative enlarging effect. The shorter the palpebral fissure and the thicker the epicanthal fold, the more noticeable the postoperative improvement.

However, epicanthoplasty is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with congenital microphthalmia, scar-prone skin, or dry eye syndrome should proceed with caution. Common temporary side effects after surgery include tearing and light sensitivity. Overcorrection may lead to complications such as wound contraction, asymmetry, or an unnatural "staring" appearance. Mild epicanthal folds can often be camouflaged with makeup, making surgical intervention unnecessary.

After surgery, keep the incision site clean and dry, and remove sutures after seven days. Avoid wearing eye makeup and use UV-protective sunglasses (preferably frameless) for at least three months. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment daily after cleaning, and seek medical review promptly if persistent redness, swelling, or discharge occurs. Prior to surgery, it is advisable to choose a reputable medical facility and have thorough discussions with your surgeon about expected outcomes to minimize risks.