Canthoplasty is derived from the Greek words “Canthos” meaning corner of the eye and “plasty” meaning shaping. Canthoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that involves reshaping the corner of the eye.
Canthoplasty is a reconstructive surgical procedure used to correct drooping or sagging in the outer corner of the eye by increasing the canthus to achieve a larger, brighter eye.
Canthoplasty should not be confused with another type of eyelid surgery called lower eyelid Blepharoplasty. Blepharoplasty is done to remove excess skin, muscle and fat from the lower or upper eyelids to make the eye look younger but it does not change the shape or size of the eye.
Why do people get canthoplasty?
The drooping of the lower eyelids (called ectropion) can be annoying in appearance. With age, the skin and tendons around the eyes lose their elasticity. It causes the lower eyelids to droop, creating a tired or sad appearance.
Eye trauma that causes laxity of the lower eyelids or retraction of the lower eyelids may require canthoplasty to correct incorrect position in the outer corner of the eye.
Dissatisfaction with the previous surgical result: Some Canthoplasts are performed as revision surgery to correct lower eyelid complications from previous surgery, such as drooping lower eyelids or eversion deformities that reveal too much white of the eye (revealing the sclera).
Some patients need canthoplasty surgery to achieve a more almond-shaped eye by lifting a downward sloping eyelid and increasing the horizontal length of the eye.
What happens during Canthoplasty surgery?
During your first consultation, your surgeon will carefully examine the shape and function of your eyes and will talk to you in detail about the look you want to achieve with your surgery. Once you both have decided that Canthoplasty is the most appropriate choice, your doctor will design your eye shape based on your eye shape, proportion and symmetry.
Local anesthesia or general anesthesia will be used in your surgery. The procedure usually takes one to two hours. Surgery involves cutting and repositioning or tightening the lower lid tendon. An incision is usually made in the natural crease of the outer corner of the eyelid to minimize any visible scarring. The tendon is then pulled up to be lifted from the junction of the upper and lower eyelids and then reattached with stitches. In addition, Canthoplasty is possible by entering through the scalp without leaving any visible scars on the face.
When the operation is complete, a temporary shield is placed over your eyes.
Recovery after Canthoplasty surgery
When you wake up after the surgery and remove the eye shields, you will notice that your vision is blurred. This is because an antibiotic ointment is applied to the eyes during surgery to prevent them from drying out. You will be sent home with this ointment along with instructions for applying it into the eye and incision several times a day to prevent infection.
You will be asked to bring someone with you to drive you home after the surgery. It is recommended to have someone with you for one or two days after the surgery, because your eyes will be closed and you will need help.
Recovery after cantoplasty is similar to other eyelid surgeries. Recovery usually takes two to three weeks. Most patients experience significant improvement within the first two weeks, but swelling and bruising may take several weeks to disappear completely. Final results will appear after a few months.
During this period, it is especially important to follow the doctor’s post-operative instructions to avoid complications and scarring of the delicate soft tissues surrounding the eyes. To prevent infections, ointments or eye drops may be given in addition to artificial tears and various steroids also may be administered. Their regular use is very important to relieve eye swelling.
It will be recommended that you do not splash water on your face and rub your eyes while taking a shower for at least one month after the surgery. Heavy and strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least two weeks or until your doctor sees you for follow-up and says it’s safe. Makeup is usually allowed after two weeks.
Are the results of canthoplasty permanent?
A very high level of skill and experience is required to perform the canthoplasty procedure well. The results of a canthoplasty procedure performed by a well-trained doctor are considered a permanent solution for eyelid malposition, and revision surgeries are rarely necessary.
Are there any risks or complications may happen due to canthoplasty?
Of course, all surgeries have risks, but serious complications from canthoplasty are extremely rare. Swelling and bruising are common in the first few weeks after surgery and usually disappear within two to three weeks. For the first few weeks after surgery, you may have dry eyes, excessive lacrimation and blurred vision.
Your surgeon will review and discuss with you all the potential risks and complications of your surgical procedure during the preoperative consultation.
