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What Is Lateral Canthoplasty?

Lateral canthoplasty is eyelid surgery that tightens, repositions, or reshapes the outer corner of the eye where the upper and lower lids meet. It can be done for functional reasons, such as eyelid laxity or exposure, or for cosmetic changes to the eye shape. The procedure typically adjusts the lateral canthal tendon to improve lid support and contour. Technique and goals vary by patient, so a detailed exam guides the plan.

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What Is Lateral Canthoplasty?

Lateral canthoplasty is eyelid surgery that tightens, repositions, or reshapes the outer corner of the eye where the upper and lower lids meet. It can be done for functional reasons, such as eyelid laxity or exposure, or for cosmetic changes to the eye shape. The procedure typically adjusts the lateral canthal tendon to improve lid support and contour. Technique and goals vary by patient, so a detailed exam guides the plan.

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Why Lateral Canthoplasty Is Done

Lateral canthoplasty may be recommended for functional support, cosmetic goals, or both.

  • Improve lower eyelid laxity, ectropion, or poor lid-globe apposition
  • Reduce exposure symptoms such as dryness and irritation in selected cases
  • Refine eye shape or outer corner position for cosmetic symmetry

How the Procedure Is Performed

  1. The surgeon makes a small incision at the outer corner and exposes the lateral canthal tendon.
  2. The tendon and eyelid tissues are tightened, repositioned, or reconstructed as planned.
  3. The lids are reattached to create a stable outer corner with appropriate height and tension.

Some patients need additional eyelid procedures during the same session depending on anatomy and goals.

Recovery Timeline

Swelling and bruising are common for the first week and often improve over 1 to 2 weeks. Mild tightness, dryness, and temporary irritation can occur while tissues heal. Most people resume routine activities within days, but strenuous activity and eye rubbing are typically avoided for a short period. Final contour and symmetry can continue to refine over several weeks.

Risks and Complications

Possible risks depend on the technique and include both cosmetic and functional issues.

  • Infection, bleeding, scarring, or delayed healing
  • Overcorrection or undercorrection, asymmetry, or recurrence of laxity
  • Dryness, irritation, or difficulty closing the eye in rare cases
  • Changes in the outer corner shape, lid position, or lash direction

FAQs on Lateral Canthoplasty

What is the difference between canthoplasty and canthopexy?

Canthoplasty typically involves cutting and reconstructing the lateral canthal tendon to change or rebuild the outer corner. Canthopexy is usually a less invasive tightening that supports the tendon without full reconstruction. The right option depends on how much laxity or reshaping is needed.

Is lateral canthoplasty cosmetic or medical?

It can be either. Some people have it to improve eyelid support and exposure symptoms, while others pursue it for cosmetic eye shape goals. Your surgeon will clarify whether the plan is functional, cosmetic, or combined.

How long do results last?

Results can be long lasting, but durability depends on tissue quality, healing, and ongoing eyelid laxity with age. Some conditions that cause laxity can progress over time. Follow-up helps confirm stability and address recurrence if it occurs.

When should I call a doctor after surgery?

Call urgently for worsening pain, rapidly increasing swelling, fever, thick discharge, new vision changes, or inability to close the eye comfortably. These can suggest infection or a complication that needs prompt care.

References

Canthoplasty: How To Prepare Before Surgery. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24828-canthoplasty. Date Accessed February 5, 2026.

Blepharoplasty, Lower Lid, Canthal Support. StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf, National Library of Medicine). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK576422/. Date Accessed February 5, 2026.

Restoration of the Lateral Canthus and Stabilization of the Lower Eyelid for Deformities after Esthetic Lateral Canthoplasty. PubMed (National Library of Medicine). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37622520/. Date Accessed February 5, 2026.

Modified lateral canthopexy with upper and lower blepharoplasty: outcomes and complications. PubMed (National Library of Medicine). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37977931/. Date Accessed February 5, 2026.

Lateral Tarsoplasty Combined with a Full-Thickness Skin Graft: Indications, Outcomes, and Complications (includes lateral canthal procedures context). Life (MDPI). https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/14/3/314. Date Accessed February 5, 2026.