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What is Canthoplasty?

The inner corner of your eye will either be directly in line with the outer corner or even a few degrees higher however if you have a drooping eye the outer corner of the eye is several degrees below the inner corner. Doctors refer to the procedure to fix this as “canthoplasty.”

When to See a Doctor

Canthoplasty is an eyelid surgery that lifts the outer corner of your eye to create a more youthful and “awake” appearance. You may also consider a canthoplasty for cosmetic reasons which would include the popular “cat eye” look where the corner of the eye would slant upward. The specialists at SightMD – known as “oculofacial plastic surgeons” perform canthoplasty for medical and cosmetic purposes.

upper, lateral, and lower canthoplasty difference image

What to Expect During Surgery

To lift your drooping eye corner, your surgeon will begin by making a small incision in the outer corner of your eyelid as it will expose the lower canthal tendon. Once they cut the tendon, they lift the lower lid into position and the incisions will be closed.

What to Expect During Recovery

The procedure usually takes approximately one-to-two hours to complete. You should expect to have temporary bruising and swelling around your eyes for the first week you may also notice a change in your eyesight, but this should also be temporary. Finally, you should wear glasses instead of contact lenses for the first few weeks after your procedure.

Canthoplasty FAQs

Here are some common frequently asked questions about Canthoplasty:

What should I expect for aftercare?

To help heal properly, you should massage your eyelids in an upward direction for three-to-five minutes at least three times a day for the first two weeks after surgery. This will help the lid stay in position and prevent the surrounding skin from losing tone.

What’s the difference between a canthoplasty and an eye lift?

An upper or lower blepharoplasty would remove the excess skin, fat, and tissue from your eyelid making for a smoother look, and without wrinkles or sagging skin. A canthoplasty change the shape of your eyes by cutting the canthal tendon and lifting the corner of your eye.

Is canthoplasty covered by insurance?

If you are having canthoplasty to correct a medical condition such as chronic dry eyes your health insurance may cover some of the cost of the surgery. Insurance will not cover canthoplasty if it is being performed only for cosmetic reasons.

Contact SightMD today to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors to discuss your Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery options at one of our convenient locations!