Canthoplasty
Canthoplasty is as aesthetic or functional procedure to reconstruct or reshape the lateral canthus (outer corner of the eye). This oculoplastic surgery should only be performed by surgeons with significant experience with oculoplastic surgery. If performed incorrectly the results can be disastrous. “Canthopexy” is different than canthoplasty. Canthopexy merely reinforces the canthus without cutting; thereby it does not alter the horizontal length of the eyelid and it does not alter the position of canthus.
What Is Canthoplasty Surgery?
Canthoplasty can tighten a saggy, loose lower eyelid. It can also reshape and reposition the lateral canthus. This is especially useful in those patients who have had prior complicated lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) with retracted (pulled down) lower eyelid and rounded canthus and unpleasant “surgical” appearance, who need revisional eyelid surgery. It also treats lower eyelid laxity (ectropion), where the lower eyelid is floppy. Dr Taban uses a minimally invasive approach for canthoplasty and tightening the lower eyelid, which provides better eyelid contour with hidden scars, entitled “Aesthetic Lateral Canthoplasty”.
Canthoplasty may be combined with other eyelid and periocular surgeries, if necessary, such as blepharoplasty, ptosis surgery, brow lift, and midface lift. The surgery is usually done under local anesthesia, with or without intravenous sedation. The recovery usually involves 7-10 of swelling/bruising.
Who Should Perform The Surgery?
When choosing a plastic surgeon to perform canthoplasty, look for an oculoplastic surgeon, with membership in the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS), which indicates he or she is not only a board certified ophthalmologist who knows the anatomy and structure of the eyelids and orbit, but also has had extensive training in ophthalmic plastic reconstructive and cosmetic surgery.
Canthoplasty vs Canthopexy?
A canthoplasty is more focused on the corner of the eye where the eyelids meet. It’s normally more invasive as their has to be cutting of the muscle. Alternatively, a canthopexy is less invasive and mostly involves sutures to tighten and stabilize the tendons and muscles of the eye. There’s no muscles that are cut in this procedure. Many times a canthopexy is performed in conjunction with a blepharoplasty or other procedures.
Canthal Reconstructive Procedure Recovery
Recovery varies from patient to patient. Bruising/swelling lasts around 10 days. The patient can resume normal activities around the same time although complete healing takes weeks to few months to appreciate final results.
Before & After Photos
Read Dr. Taban’s article about Lower Eyelid Retraction Surgery without Internal Spacer Graft.
