How to Prevent Epicanthal Folds

An epicanthal fold, or “plica palpebronasalis,” is the skin above the upper eyelid that runs from the nose to the eyebrow. This physical trait is normal for people of Asian descent. Skins folds among other ethnic groups can be evidence of genetic or mental disorder. To prevent epicanthal folds, in patients other than Asian descent, try these tips.

Instructions

• 1

  Be educated. Learn as much as you can about why epicathnal folds occur normally in Asians, but not in other ethnic groups. Ask your family about your medical history. Epicanthal folds are always prominent in people with syndromes such as Turner, Down or Williams.

• 2

  Prevent the onset of genetic disorder or fetal alcohol syndrome. Women who are pregnant or thinking about conceiving should not drink alcohol and also need to consult a specialist or genetic counselor, especially if a family history of illness is evident. There are numerous medical tests that will help you determine if epicanthal folds are likely to occur.

• 3

  Get a medical exam and an ultrasound. If you are pregnant, get regular medical check-ups. During an ultrasound, a doctor may look for spinal abnormality. It may be possible to treat an abnormality of this kind to prevent epicanthal folds later. Other physical abnormalities a specialist may look for are missing or misshaped limbs, heart defects or irregular brain development.

• 4

  Ask your doctor about surgery. Sometimes people get epicanthal folds and there is not much they can do to prevent them. Talk to a doctor about surgical “correction.” Ask about single to double eyelid surgery or VM plasty. If there is no evidence of medical or genetic family disorder, a doctor may referred you to a therapist before agreeing to do surgery.