Epicanthal fold which is otherwise called as plica palpebronasalis, is the skin of the upper eyelid that extends from the nose to inner part of eyebrow. Epicanthal fold thus cover canthus which is the inner corner of the eye.

Existence of epicanthal fold is usually normal in persons of Asian descent and Mongolian ancestry. Infants of non- Asians exhibit epicanthal folds, but this may disappear later when their facial bones grow, especially when the bridge of the nose elevates.

But the continued presence of epicanthal folds can also be due to certain medical conditions such as Down syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome, turner syndrome, phenylketonuria etc.

Photo Credit: Blessed-with-down-syndrome.org/epicanthic-fold.html

Hence, a non-Asian baby having epicanthal folds should be examined thoroughly for any additional signs of genetic disorders such as Down syndrome.

Tips To Identify Epicanthal Folds

First of all identify the upper and lower eyelids and the inner corner of the eye which is the area close to the nose bridge. Next find out the soft and moist tissues of medial commissure. Medial commissure is the area where both the eyelids join together near to the nose.

If epicanthal folds are present, then the upper eyelid’s skin will cover either a part of the lower eyelid or the entire lower eyelid, including the medial commissure and the inner corner of the eye.

Prevention of Epicanthal Folds

You can also prevent the presence of epicanthal folds in your children. Those who are planning to conceive or have already conceived should resist from alcohol consumption, as alcohol consumption may lead to fetal alcohol syndrome, which leads to the development of epicanthal folds.

Those who have the family history of any illness such as Down syndrome, Williams’s syndrome, turner syndrome etc. should consult a genetic counselor. Genetic counselor would carry out tests to determine the presence of epicanthal folds in the baby.

Photo Credit: Blessed-with-down-syndrome.org/epicanthic-fold.html

Similarly regular checkups and ultrasound scanning during pregnancy stage also helps to identify any abnormalities in spinal cord that may lead to the development of epicanthal folds.

Treatment For Epicanthal Folds

In certain situations, epicanthal folds can’t be prevented, especially if they are developed due to genetic makeup. Even if the epicanthal folds are genetic, you can get rid of them for improving the aesthetics through plastic surgery.

However, consult only an experienced plastic surgeon, as this surgery is highly challenging and require high levels of skills to operate upon the epicanthal fold which overlies the most delicate tear drainage canals of the eyes.

Photo Credit: Pediatricsconsultantlive.com/blog/childrens-health-matters/content/article/1803329/1383742?pageNumber=2

Even though the surgeon may use the most modern surgical accessories, it requires the use of multiple and small skin flaps during surgeries, which result in prolonged healing time.

Another procedure called no-scar epicanthoplasty has also been developed recently to correct these folds. During the first consultation, let the surgeon know about your family history and the medical history.

Surgeon will also describe the risks and chances of success and the after effects of the surgery. Once the surgery is over and the healing process is complete, you will look perfectly normal without epicanthal folds. Identify epicanthal folds as early as possible and try to avoid other medical problems.