Canthoplasty is surgery to reshape or tighten the outer corner of the eyelids. It helps improve lid support, eye comfort, and in some cases cosmetic appearance.
When canthoplasty is considered
Weak or sagging outer lid support can leave the eye exposed, watery, or sore. Strengthening this area helps the eyelids meet the eye surface smoothly with each blink.
- Lower lid laxity causing ectropion or entropion may benefit from canthoplasty.
- Some cosmetic procedures use it to give a more youthful lid position.
- It can support reconstruction after trauma or removal of eyelid tumours.
- Canthoplasty is often combined with blepharoplasty or other lid surgery.
- A full eye examination checks that the surface and tear film are healthy first.
Procedure and recovery
The operation is usually done under local anaesthetic with or without light sedation. Recovery involves temporary bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort around the outer corner.
- Sutures hold the lid in its new position and are removed after several days.
- Cold compresses and simple pain relief ease early tenderness.
- Patients avoid heavy lifting, rubbing, and contact lenses until advised.
- Follow up checks lid height, tightness, and eye surface protection.
- Report severe pain, sudden vision changes, or spreading redness quickly.
