Dr. Sam Lam Plastic Surgery Forum

Dear Dr. Lam, being of half-Japanese descent, I have in my opinion overfull lids. I do have a crease but most of the time it's hidden under a layer of skin unless I raise my eyebrows in which case I look startled. Is it possible to remove the excess skin so as to give me a better look? I also have what's called an epicanthal fold or something like that. Do you think removing it would make my eyes look bigger (something I'd like)? I am afraid that my eyes would,too, look too close to one another after the procedure. And there's also the scarring I'm reluctant about. Thanks in advance

hi,
a few things:
1. i think full upper eyelids can be beautiful (read my learning modules on the asian face under resources.). especially read it if you are looking to rejuvenate the eyes (i.e., if you are older), as cutting away may make it worse.
2. if you are young with a low crease, that is typically normal in almost any race. you can send me in a PM with a photo for a quick eval though.
3. if you have a crease already then it is very easy, i can take a little skin without too much ado.
4. epicanthoplasties really do not open the eye much. they are intended to change the shape of the epicanthus. i personally like the epicanthus but some people do not. it is an easy procedure but there are two downsides to it. one is your eyes will look like a cat for about 3 weeks and also it can lead to scarring. in my hands the most i have seen is some thickening but without visible scarring but it is the area that traditionally has the highest chance of scarring (not to scare you).
best,
sml

hi, about point 4, do you mean permanent thickening?
as soon as I get my hands on a camera I'll try to send a pic

usually not. i have had to put some 5-FU (scar dissolver) to control a couple of cases but no long-term thickening that i have observed.

that's good news!

Yes, but i make no promises. Just trying to be honest and appropriate.