Canthoplasty/Lateral Canthopexy Surgery

BENEFITS

The main benefit brought by this cosmetic surgery is tightening the tissues at either corner of the eye where the upper and lower eyelids meet in order to better support the eyelid. By lifting and strengthening the outer corner of the eyelids, the surgeon can remove wrinkles and is able to lift the excess skin as well. The result is a more pleasing eye appearance, often called the "cat eye" look.

Another aim of the operation is to minimize the occurrence of surgical complications following a transcutaneous (skin incision) lower blepharoplasty.

Here is a brief list of the advantages provided by this cosmetic procedure:

• correcting the lower lid droopiness caused by ageing or previous surgery
• reducing the chance of risks associated with lower blepharoplasty
• protecting the ocular surface
• eliminating wrinkles
• rejuvenating the eye appearance

Beside the physical improvements, some patients experience psychological benefits as well. Even if the obtained aesthetic appearance does not solve all of their problems, it may improve their self-esteem.

As with other types of cosmetic procedures, you need to have a clear and realistic understanding of your reasons and goals for the surgery. Before undergoing the operation, it is advisable to discuss your expectations with your surgeon.

A canthoplasty or canthopexy is often combined with: eyelid surgery, facelift, mid face lift, fat transfer.

PERFORMANCE

There are many variations regarding the surgical techniques involved in canthoplasty. The choice of the procedure most appropriate to each patient depends on:

• individual characteristics such as: the degree of sagging, the prominence of the eyes, the eye position in the orbital rim/cheek bone
• patient's preferences
• surgeon's recommendation and experience with undergoing certain techniques

Related to the above factors, canthopexy is designed for less prominent eye lid droopiness while canthoplasty is preferred for more severe eye lid condition.

The incision is placed in the outer corner of the eye towards the orbital bony rim. The resulting scar will be hidden within a crease.

By applying various surgical techniques the tendons supporting the eye lids will be strengthened. The surgeon may use both dissolvable and non-absorbable sutures to close the incision.

If a minimal reinforcement is needed, a much simpler procedure will be utilized. In this case, it is possible to extract a full-thickness of the lower eyelid. This will allow the eyelid to grip the eye without the need to recreate a new tendon.

Canthopexy is a less invasive procedure that involves the tendon tightening, as well. There are also various techniques ranging from simple to complex. Usually, the soft tissues just below the end of the tarsal plate will be "tucked" by sewing them to the rim of the orbital bone.

The most important step in all these procedures is the attachment of supporting tendon, muscle, and/or tarsal plate to the external lining of nearby bone.

The length of surgery is usually 1 to 2 hours.

RISKS

It is well known that after any surgery complications may occur. Please go over all risks in detail with your surgeon at your pre-operative appointment.

The possible risks occurring after a cantoplasty or canthopaxy are described as follows:

Reaction to the anesthesia – some patients experience nausea and general sickness after receiving anesthesia; this is a short-lasting side effect and usually disappears completely after a few hours.

Infection - this is very uncommon, but can occur after any surgery. The infection is treated with antibiotic ointments during the first weeks after the operatiojn.

Blood clot behind the eyeball (Haematoma) – It is exceedingly rare that behind the eyeball or under the skin blood clots may develop. The most common symptom of this complication is typically a steady, stabbing pain similar to glaucoma. If this is the case, removal is necessary.

Scarring – Usually the scar will be concealed in a crease, but better discuss with your surgeon before the operation. You may also ask for before and after photos.

Eye Sight alteration - the affection, in different extent, of the vision; usually temporary.

What questions should I ask my surgeon about the canthoplasty surgery?

For the first consultation with the surgeon, you are advised to list a set of questions that might help you better understand the benefits, risks and performance of the procedure.

The most frequent asked questions related to canthoplasty are the following:

• Am I a good candidate for canthoplasty?
• Are my goals realistic?
• What type of surgical technique will you perform? Which do you recommend for me and why?
• How should I prepare for the operation?
• Do I need canthoplasty or canthopexy? Why?
• Can you explain the operation to me in detail?
• What benefits can I expect from the surgery?
• What side effects and complications may I experience by undergoing the procedure?
• Will I have pains during or after the procedure?
• How long will it take before I can resume my normal activities following canthoplasty?
• How long will the results last?
• What cosmetic procedures can be combined with canthoplasty for a better effect?
• What aftercare should I follow after the operation?