The idea of making eyes literally “bigger” through surgery is a common misconception, as the actual size of the eyeball is determined by genetics and cannot be surgically enlarged or decreased. Instead, cosmetic procedures modify surrounding tissues to create the appearance of larger, more open, or more prominent eyes. These interventions reshape the eyelids and eye corners to enhance visible dimensions and overall aesthetic.
The Reality of Eye Size
The human eyeball is a fixed anatomical structure housed within the bony orbit of the skull. Its axial length, typically between 22-25 mm in adults, cannot be surgically altered, meaning procedures cannot increase the eye’s physical volume. The perception of eye size and openness is primarily influenced by surrounding soft tissues like eyelids, skin folds, and the shape of the eye opening. Excess skin or fat in the eyelids can make eyes appear smaller or tired. Epicanthal folds can obscure the inner part, making eyes seem shorter or more widely spaced.
Surgical Approaches to Eye Appearance
Several surgical procedures reshape the area around the eyes, leading to a perception of larger or more open eyes. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, addresses excess skin, muscle, and fat in the upper or lower eyelids. Upper blepharoplasty removes redundant skin that can droop over the eye, resulting in a more defined eyelid contour and alert appearance. Lower blepharoplasty targets under-eye bags, puffiness, and wrinkles by removing or repositioning fat and tightening loose skin, making the eyes look smoother and more refreshed.
Canthoplasty modifies the outer corner of the eye, known as the lateral canthus. This procedure can lift the outer corner, reshape it into a more almond configuration, or widen the eye opening horizontally. By tightening muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues, canthoplasty contributes to a brighter and wider eye appearance.
Epicanthoplasty addresses epicanthal folds, common in individuals of East Asian descent. This procedure involves small incisions to remove or reshape excess skin, lengthening the horizontal eye opening and creating a more open appearance of the inner eye. Epicanthoplasty is often combined with double eyelid surgery to create a more defined eyelid crease and enhance the overall eye contour.
Important Considerations Before Surgery
Undergoing eye appearance surgery requires careful consideration and realistic expectations. As with any surgical procedure, potential risks include bleeding, infection, dry eyes, and scarring. Other complications include asymmetry, difficulty fully closing the eyes, or temporary blurred vision. In rare instances, more severe issues like injury to eye muscles, skin discoloration, or vision changes, including blindness, have been reported.
These surgeries aim for improvement rather than perfection, and individual results can vary. Patients should discuss their aesthetic goals with a qualified surgeon and maintain realistic expectations. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon or oculoplastic surgeon is important. An oculoplastic surgeon is an ophthalmologist with specialized training in eyelid, orbit, and tear duct surgery, combining expertise in eye health and facial aesthetics. During the consultation, the surgeon will assess suitability, explain the procedure, discuss potential risks, and outline the expected recovery process.