In the world of global beauty trends, few aesthetics have commanded as much attention as the “Snatched” look popularized by icons like Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid. This piercing, exotic, and lifted eye shape—often referred to as the Almond Eye—has shifted the standard of beauty from simply “big eyes” to eyes that are elongated, sophisticated, and alluring.
While makeup techniques like winged eyeliner and tape can mimic this effect temporarily, they lack the structural permanence required for a true transformation. This is where Almond Eye Surgery (clinically known in Korea as Dual Canthoplasty) comes into play. As a world leader in oculoplastic innovation, View Plastic Surgery explores the medical realities, advanced Korean techniques, and aesthetic philosophies behind achieving this coveted look.
What is the "Almond Eye" Phenomenon?
The “Almond Eye” is not merely a poetic description; it is a specific set of anatomical proportions that creates a sharp yet feminine gaze. Unlike the traditional “doe-eyed” look, which emphasizes vertical height, the almond eye emphasizes horizontal length and an upward tilt.
- Positive Canthal Tilt: The outer corner of the eye (lateral canthus) sits slightly higher than the inner corner (medial canthus), usually by 2-4 degrees.
- No Scleral Show: The lower eyelid rests precisely at the lower limbus (the border of the iris), meaning no white space (sclera) is visible underneath the pupil.
- Elongated Fissure: The horizontal width of the eye is maximized, creating a cat-like, sweeping silhouette.
For patients seeking this Snatched look, standard double eyelid surgery is often insufficient because it only addresses the vertical dimension (height). To achieve the Kendall Jenner aesthetic, one must address the angle and width of the eye through specialized Canthoplasty procedures.
Candidates: Who Needs Almond Eye Surgery?
Not everyone requires the same approach. Almond Eye Surgery is a reconstructive and aesthetic solution for specific structural concerns:
| Condition | Description | Surgical Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Negative Canthal Tilt | Outer corners slope downwards, creating a sad, tired, or “puppy dog” appearance. | Lift the lateral canthus to create a neutral or positive (upward) tilt. |
| Short Horizontal Width | Eyes feel small or “stuffy” despite having a double eyelid crease. | Physically extend the outer tail of the eye. |
| Image Transformation | Desire to shift from a “cute/innocent” image to a “sexy/mature” aesthetic. | Reshape the entire orbital frame for a fiercer look. |
If you are unsure if your eye structure allows for this transformation, we recommend a professional evaluation. You can contact us on WhatsApp for a preliminary photo assessment.
Almond Eye Surgery vs. Traditional Double Eyelid Surgery
A common misconception among international patients is that Double Eyelid Surgery alone will provide the “foxy” look. This is incorrect.
Double Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) focuses on the vertical axis. It removes excess skin or creates a fold to make the eye look taller and more open. While this brightens the face, it does not change the eye’s slant or width.
Almond Eye Surgery (Canthoplasty) manipulates the horizontal axis and the tilt. It involves:
- Lateral Canthoplasty: Incising the outer corner to lengthen the eye.
- Canthopexy/Lower Canthoplasty: Repositioning the lower lid downward or securing the outer tendon higher to change the slant.
For the most dramatic results, View Plastic Surgery often combines these approaches. By pairing a comprehensive eye surgery solution with lateral repositioning, we achieve the perfect balance of height and width.
The Korean Advantage: Why Surgery in Korea?
Korea is the epicenter of intricate oculoplastic surgery. When it comes to Almond Eyes, the distinction lies in the detail.
Precision Design
Korean surgeons operate in millimeters. The difference between a “surprised” look and a “seductive” look can be less than 1mm of adjustment. We utilize 3D analysis to measure the ocular globe’s protrusion, ensuring the new eye shape suits your specific bone structure.
Minimizing Scarring
Traditional lateral canthoplasty often left visible scarring at the corners of the eyes. Modern Korean techniques utilize a transconjunctival approach, where incisions are made inside the mucus membrane or hidden precisely along the lash line. This makes scarring virtually invisible to the naked eye once healed.
How Korea Achieves the Perfect Almond Eye: Dual Canthoplasty & 3D Analysis
The "Snatched" Trend: Why Almond Eyes are Dominating Globally
The Core of Korean Technique: 4 Key Pillars
Dual Canthoplasty for Tailored Almond Eyes
Unlike traditional methods that only focus on one area, the Korean approach utilizes Dual Canthoplasty—a combination of Lateral (back) and Lower (under) Canthoplasty.
- The Synergy: We don’t just pull the skin; we adjust the angle to widen the eye both horizontally and vertically.
- The Result: Harsh, upward-sloping eyes are transformed into soft yet defined almond shapes, and small, “stuffy” eyes become clear and charismatic.
3D Anatomical Analysis of the Eye
Safety and precision start before the first incision. We perform a deep dive into your unique anatomy:
- Protrusion & Bone Structure: Checking how much the eyeball protrudes and the location of the orbital bone.
- Conjunctival Exposure: Measuring the safe range of the red tissue (conjunctiva) to prevent side effects.
- Pre-Surgical Design: Ensuring the lift is aesthetically pleasing without compromising eye function.
Wide Design Spectrum for Different Eye Types
There is no “one-size-fits-all” in Korean aesthetics. We offer a full spectrum of eyelid lines—In-line, In-out, Semi-out, and Out-line—to complement your new almond shape.
- Personalized Ratios: We calculate the golden ratio of your face to decide whether to aim for a “chic and cool” look or a “soft and youthful” image.
Advanced Adhesion Prevention
A common concern with canthoplasty is the “closing” or re-attaching of the skin.
- The Technique: Our surgeons use a specialized “adhesion prevention” method, selectively removing unnecessary tissue and securing the corner to the periosteum (bone lining).
- The Goal: To ensure your long, lifted almond shape remains permanent and clear for years to come.
Synergistic Procedures for the Total Look
The Kendall Jenner look isn’t just about the eye corners; it’s about the entire upper face architecture. To maximize the result, we often recommend:
Sub-Brow Lift or Forehead Lift
If heavy brows are pushing down on your eyes, canthoplasty alone won’t suffice. A Sub-brow Lift removes sagging skin under the eyebrow, instantly lifting the ocular frame. For a full “Foxy Eye” lift, an endoscopic forehead lift pulls the tail of the brow upward.
Thermage FLX
Surgery adjusts structure; energy devices perfect the texture. After healing, Thermage FLX is excellent for tightening the thin skin around the eyes, preventing future drooping and extending the longevity of your surgical results.
Recovery and Maintenance
Recovering from Almond Eye Surgery is relatively fast, but requires strict adherence to aftercare protocols.
- The First 72 Hours: Ice packs are essential to reduce swelling. You may experience temporary chemosis (swelling of the clear membrane over the eye), which is normal.
- Stitch Removal: Sutures are typically removed 7 days post-op.
- Social Downtime: Most patients feel comfortable appearing in public (with light makeup) after 10–14 days.
- Contact Lenses: Avoid wearing circle lenses or contacts for at least 2–3 weeks to prevent irritation.
Ultimately, the goal is a natural, sophisticated transformation that enhances your confidence. If you are ready to explore the possibilities of Almond Eye Surgery, book a consultation with View Plastic Surgery today.
