How to Care for Your Eyes After Epicanthoplasty

Epicanthoplasty—commonly referred to as “inner canthoplasty” or “opening the inner canthus”—is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to reduce or eliminate the epicanthal fold, thereby widening the apparent distance between the eyes and enhancing overall eye symmetry and openness. While generally safe when performed by a qualified oculoplastic or facial plastic surgeon, optimal outcomes depend significantly on meticulous postoperative care.

Immediately following surgery, patients should apply cold compresses for 15–20 minutes every two hours during the first 48 hours to minimize swelling and ecchymosis. It is essential to avoid direct pressure on the incision site and to use sterile gauze or a clean cloth to prevent contamination. Patients must keep the surgical area dry for at least 72 hours; showering is permitted only if the incision remains shielded from water exposure.

Topical antibiotic ointment—typically bacitracin or erythromycin—is prescribed for application twice daily over the suture line for five to seven days to prevent infection and support epithelialization. Sutures are usually removed between postoperative days 5 and 7, depending on wound healing progression and surgeon preference. Patients should refrain from rubbing, scratching, or manipulating the eyelid margins during this period.

Sun protection is critical in the early recovery phase: UV exposure can exacerbate post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, particularly along the medial canthal incision. Patients must wear UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors and apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to surrounding facial skin—avoiding direct contact with the incision until fully epithelialized (typically by day 10–14).

Strenuous physical activity, including heavy lifting, bending, or high-intensity exercise, should be avoided for a minimum of 10–14 days to prevent elevated intraocular and venous pressure, which may compromise wound integrity or increase bleeding risk. Similarly, alcohol consumption and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be withheld for one week unless otherwise directed by the surgeon, due to their anticoagulant effects.

Patients should monitor for signs of complications—including progressive pain unrelieved by acetaminophen, purulent discharge, increasing erythema or warmth extending beyond the incision, or visual changes—and contact their surgeon promptly if any arise. Most individuals resume non-strenuous work and social activities within 7–10 days, though full aesthetic maturation of the scar may take 3–6 months.