A Modified Method Combining Z-Epicanthoplasty and Blepharoplasty to Develop Out-Fold Type Double Eyelids

Area of Science:

• Oculoplastic surgery
• Cosmetic surgery
• Asian blepharoplasty

Background:

• The epicanthus often hinders the creation of desired out-fold double eyelids in Asian women during blepharoplasty.
• Combining blepharoplasty with Z-epicanthoplasty is a popular approach, but existing techniques carry risks of surgical complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the practicability and effectiveness of a modified Z-epicanthoplasty technique integrated with blepharoplasty.
• To assess the ability of this combined procedure to achieve natural-appearing out-fold double eyelids while minimizing complications.

Main Methods:

• A modified Z-epicanthoplasty technique was employed, involving skin excision and flap creation to release epicanthic tension.
• The procedure aimed to avoid inner canthus ligament anchoring, thereby preventing associated damage.

Main Results:

• The modified method was performed on 1108 patients, with 112 undergoing detailed follow-up (6-72 months).
• A high success rate for out-fold double eyelids (110/112 cases) was observed, with natural symmetry and full exposure of the inner canthus and lacrimal caruncle.
• No visible scarring at the inner canthus was reported.

Conclusions:

• This modified combined blepharoplasty and Z-epicanthoplasty is simple and effective for creating aesthetically pleasing double eyelids.
• The technique successfully addresses various types of epicanthus in Asian women, yielding natural, smooth, and Westernized eyelid aesthetics.
• It offers a safe alternative by avoiding damage to the inner canthus and lacrimal caruncle.