Canthoplasty is a surgery that aims to address droopy and saggy, tired looking eyes. During this procedure, a skill-ful surgeon alters the lateral angle of the eye. By tightening the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues at the corner of the eye, its shape is altered. Additionally, it can enhance your field of vision. Therefore, this surgery is regarded for medical as well as aesthetic reasons.
It is important to note that at Cayra Clinic, board certified cosmetic surgeons perform this procedure, maintaining certain standards necessary to enhance the safety of the patient.
What is Canthoplasty?
Canthoplasty is a cosmetic surgical intervention designed to tighten the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue around eyes. Reasons for considering Canthoplasty include:
- Addressing a sagging eyelid.
- Minimizing an eyelid tilt.
- Correcting uneven eyelids.
- Altering the eye’s shape.
- Expanding the field of vision.
- Managing or treating a condition affecting the eyelid.
“Canthoplasty” refers specifically to a procedure that reshapes the lateral canthus of the eyes, the corner where the upper and lower eyelids meet. When combined with Blepharoplasty, Almond Eye Surgery, Cat Eye Surgery, Fox Eye Surgery, can be done, depending on individual preferences and goals.
Who performs a Canthoplasty?
At Cayra Clinic, Canthoplasty procedure is done by an oculoplastic surgeon, a highly-trained professional who is both an ophthalmologist and a plastic surgeon specializing in surgeries around the eyes.
What are the types of Canthoplasty?
Canthoplasty surgeries come in two types:
- Lateral Canthoplasty: This procedure focuses on reconstructing the outer canthus, situated at the corner of your eye opposite the nasal bridge, pointing towards your ear.
- EpiCanthoplasty: This surgical intervention is aimed at reconstructing the inner canthus, located at the corner of your eye near the nasal bridge.
Why is Canthoplasty done?
You might require Canthoplasty if you want to manage or address various conditions impacting the function and appearance of your eye and eyelid, including:
- Cornea damage (keratopathy).
- Ectropion.
- Entropion.
- Lagophthalmos.
- Trauma.
The natural aging process involves the gradual loss of skin elasticity, leading to wrinkles or features that may be less desirable. The skin of your eyelid is not exempt from these changes and can start to droop or sag. Opting for this procedure can be a cosmetic choice to address these natural changes around the corner of your eye.
Procedure Details
How do I prepare for Canthoplasty surgery?
Before undergoing Canthoplasty surgery, you will have an initial meeting with the surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will examine your eyes, discuss your goals for the surgery, and provide insights into what to expect post-surgery. We will also address any questions you have about the procedure.
To prepare for the surgery, your surgeon will give you specific instructions, which may include:
- Undergoing lab testing.
- Adjusting current medications and supplements or adding new ones.
- Ceasing smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Use spectacles instead of contact lens
Cayra Clinic’s expert patient coordinators will always be there for you 24/7, right from the get-go. However, it is also advisable to have a friend or family member with you. In your all-inclusive package, accommodations for your companion are free and included. Having assistance post-surgery will provide comfort and is recommended.
What happens during Canthoplasty?
On the day of your surgery, the anesthesiologist will administer anesthesia according to the specific procedure. Once you are under anesthesia, your surgeon will create a small incision near your eyelid. Subsequently, the surgeon will tighten the eyelid tendon and muscle by adjusting their position, effectively reducing sagging or droopiness. Finally, the surgeon will close the incision using stitches. The strategical positioning of sutures by expert oculoplastic surgeons at Cayra Clinic mitigates risk of excessive scarring. Nevertheless, scarring is an inevitable aspect of any surgical procedure and remains well-hidden within your natural skin folds. Proper after care and hygiene further prevents excessive scarring during the healing period.
Is Canthoplasty surgery painful?
Canthoplasty procedures are generally not painful as you will be under anesthesia. The type of anesthesia administered can vary, ranging from general anesthesia, which induces sleep throughout the procedure, to local anesthesia that numbs the specific area where the surgeon is operating. With local anesthesia, you remain awake during the procedure.
As you recover, you might experience mild pain or soreness. Cayra Clinic will provide with necessary guidance on safe pain relievers for your recovery. If you encounter severe pain and swelling after the surgery, get in touch with our medical team right away.
How long does Canthoplasty surgery take?
The duration of a Canthoplasty procedure typically ranges from 30 minutes to three hours, depending on the specificity of patient goals and the outcome desired. Your surgeon will provide you with an approximate time estimate before the surgery, considering the details of the selected procedure.
What happens after Canthoplasty?
Following your Canthoplasty surgery, your surgeon will provide specific instructions for the care of your surgical site as your eyelid heals:
- Avoid strenuous exercise or activities for a few weeks.
- Prescribed medications, which may include topical or oral antibiotics, a steroid, and artificial tears eye drops.
- Refrain from rubbing your eye post-surgery.
- No water, soap, or skincare products near the surgical site until it fully heals.
- Abstain from swimming in a pool or using a sauna for three weeks post-surgery.
- Sleep with your head elevated using pillows.
- Utilize ice at 15-minute intervals to reduce swelling.
Cayra Clinic will schedule a follow-up appointment the week after the surgery to monitor your healing progress.
Risks / Benefits
What are the benefits of Canthoplasty?
Canthoplasty surgery offers several benefits, including:
- Altering the appearance of your eye.
- Addressing droopy or sagging eyelids.
- Reviving tired looking eyes.
Emphasizing the importance, a highly trained and experienced surgeon ensures that Canthoplasty surgery is both safe and effective.
Book a free online consultation NOW and our expert medical team at Cayra Clinic will reach out to you in no time.
Is Canthoplasty permanent?
Certainly, the results of Canthoplasty surgery are generally permanent. However, in rare cases, there might be a need for minor repeat surgery to address the natural changes that occur as your body ages, ensuring the maintenance of the desired results.
What are the risks or complications of Canthoplasty?
Like all surgical procedures, Canthoplasty carries potential risks. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the procedure. Possible complications may include:
- Scarring.
- Bleeding.
- Swelling and bruising.
- Pain.
- Dry eyes.
- Difficulty closing your eyes.
- Risk of infection.
It is important to have a thorough understanding of these potential complications and discuss any concerns with your surgeon at Cayra Clinic prior to undergoing the Canthoplasty procedure.
Recovery
What is the recovery time for Canthoplasty surgery?
Complete recovery after Canthoplasty surgery typically takes between two to four weeks. During the initial weeks, you may encounter some discomfort, mild swelling, and bruising, which is normal and tends to diminish over time. It’s not uncommon for your eyes to appear different in size or seem uneven during the healing process; however, this asymmetry usually resolves as the swelling diminishes.
Incision lines on your skin may be visible for two to three months post-surgery, but they will gradually fade. If you notice worsening swelling, severe pain, or develop a fever, it is important to contact a healthcare provider promptly.
When can I go back to work or school after surgery?
Cayra Clinic will provide complete guidance on when it is safe to resume your regular activities, such as work or school. After the surgery, it is recommended to rest for a week, and your final surgeon’s appointment will determine your fitness for flying. Following our medical team’s advice ensures a smoother recovery and allows for the optimal healing of the surgical site.
When should I seek Help?
Get in touch with our medical team if you experience the following:
- Worsening swelling instead of improvement.
- Severe pain at the surgical site.
- Lack of progress in the healing of the surgical site.
- Development of a fever and/or purulent (pus-containing) discharge from the surgical site.
These signs may indicate potential complications, and consulting with our experts is essential for appropriate evaluation and intervention.
Difference between Canthoplasty, canthopexy and blepharoplasty?
Canthoplasty:
- Description: Canthoplasty is an eyelid surgery focused on reconstructing and lifting the corners of the eyes and eyelids.
- Procedure: Surgeons tighten muscles, tendons, and ligaments to achieve the desired results.
Canthopexy:
- Description: Canthopexy involves tightening the outer corner of the lower eyelid.
- Procedure: Unlike Canthoplasty, this surgery doesn’t interfere with existing tendons or muscles.
Blepharoplasty:
- Description: Blepharoplasty is a surgery designed to remove excess skin, muscle, and fatty tissue from the eyelids.
- Procedure: It primarily focuses on enhancing the overall appearance of the eyelids by addressing sagging skin and tissue.
In summary, while Canthoplasty and canthopexy target the corners and outer edges of the eyes, blepharoplasty is more focused on removing excess tissue to improve the eyelid’s aesthetic. Each procedure serves different purposes based on the desired outcome and specific concerns.
Still Not Sure?
Get in touch with our expert medical team at Cayra Clinic, to start discussing your goals and conditions. Receive a highly personalized treatment plan at a budget friendly cost, and let us take care of you in your journey to a more beautiful you.
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