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Orbital / Eye Area

Canthoplasty

Detachment and repositioning of the lateral canthal tendon to change eye shape or lid position.

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Region
Lateral canthus
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia
Theatre time
2–4 hours
Downtime
2–3 weeks

Overview

Canthoplasty formally releases and re-fixes the lateral canthal tendon, allowing changes to canthal tilt and lid position. It is powerful but unforgiving — malposition, rounding, and shape changes are well-recognised complications.

What it changes

  • Lateral canthal position and tilt
  • Palpebral fissure shape
  • Scleral show

Common goals

Create or restore a positive canthal tilt
Correct lid malposition or laxity

Candidates

General factors a surgeon may consider. Only a qualified surgeon can assess whether you are a candidate.

  • General physical health suitable for the anaesthetic required
  • Realistic, clearly articulated aesthetic or functional goals
  • Stable anatomy appropriate for the technique proposed
  • Non-smoking or willingness to stop for the surgeon's required window

Surgical approach

  1. 01Lateral canthal incision
  2. 02Tendon release and repositioning to the orbital rim periosteum
  3. 03Secure fixation

Recovery timeline

  1. Day 1

    Immediate post-operative period. Swelling begins, dressings or splints may be in place, supervised rest.

  2. Week 1

    Peak swelling and bruising. Limited activity, soft diet where relevant, first follow-up visit.

  3. Week 2

    Bruising fades. Many people feel socially presentable, light activity resumes.

  4. Week 4

    Most acute swelling resolves. Gradual return to exercise as cleared by the surgeon.

  5. Month 3

    Contours become clearer. Residual swelling continues to settle.

  6. Month 6

    Result is largely representative of the final outcome.

  7. Month 12+

    Final refinement, scar maturation, and revision assessment if needed.

Risks & complications

Bleeding, haematoma, or infection
Temporary or, rarely, permanent nerve disturbance
Asymmetry or an outcome that differs from expectations
Scarring, delayed healing, or wound problems
Anaesthetic risks
Possible need for revision surgery
Canthal rounding or webbing
Under- or over-correction
Dry eye
Visible lateral scarring

Limitations

Cannot change the bony orbital shape
Results depend heavily on midface and skeletal support
Aesthetic canthoplasty carries a meaningful revision rate

Before & after cases

No verified cases published yet

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Surgeons performing this procedure

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Cost

$4,000 – $14,000

These are broad estimates only. Actual costs vary significantly by country, surgeon, hospital, anaesthesia, imaging, orthodontic treatment, revision policy, and individual complexity. Always obtain a written quotation.

Questions to ask your surgeon

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Information on this platform is for educational purposes and should not replace consultation with a qualified medical professional. Surgical suitability, risks, and expected outcomes must be assessed by an appropriately qualified surgeon.