Lateral Canthoplasty

What is Lateral Canthoplasty?

Lateral canthoplasty (external canthoplasty, lateral canthoplasty) is a cosmetic surgical procedure that widens the horizontal width of the eye by incising and extending the skin and conjunctiva at the outer corner of the eye (external canthus). While double eyelid surgery changes the vertical height of the eye, lateral canthoplasty has the effect of making the eye appear larger in the horizontal direction. It is particularly suitable for those with upturned eyes and shorter horizontal eye width, creating an elongated and calm eye appearance.

A study published in Archives of Plastic Surgery (2016) (DOI: 10.5999/aps.2016.43.4.321) reported detailed surgical techniques for aesthetic lateral canthoplasty in East Asian women. By simultaneously correcting the angle of the external canthus and the horizontal palpebral fissure length, the overall impression of the eye area can be naturally improved.

Effects and Indications

The main effects that can be expected from lateral canthoplasty are as follows: The horizontal width of the eye widens, creating a larger and brighter impression. The angle of upturned eyes is relieved, resulting in a softer and more gentle expression. When used in combination with medial epicanthoplasty, the overall horizontal balance is improved, creating a more natural almond eye (Archives of Plastic Surgery, 2016). It is also possible to create a three-dimensional eye area by combining it with double eyelid surgery or fat repositioning under the eyes.

However, lateral canthoplasty aims at horizontal extension of the palpebral fissure and does not directly affect the thickness of the eyelid or the volume of fat. Depending on your desired outcome, we may recommend combining other treatments.

Surgical Flow

1. Consultation and Design

Prior to surgery, we confirm your desired eye width and angle, and design the incision line based on the anatomical position of the external canthus. The surgeon comprehensively evaluates the bone structure, eye shape, and skin elasticity to design a symmetric pattern with minimal asymmetry between left and right.

2. Anesthesia, Incision, and Suturing

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. The skin and conjunctiva of the external canthus are incised only as much as necessary, and the skin and conjunctiva are fixed and sutured in the appropriate position. After suturing, the angle of the external canthus is shaped to remain natural. The surgical method is based on techniques that prioritize the preservation of external canthus shape (Archives of Plastic Surgery, DOI: 10.5999/aps.2016.43.4.316), and we take care to minimize post-operative scarring and relapse. The surgery time is approximately 30-60 minutes.

3. Post-operative Course and Downtime

After surgery, swelling and bruising may continue for approximately 1-2 weeks. Sutures are typically removed around 5-7 days after surgery. The completed result takes approximately 1-3 months after surgery. Since scars follow the natural wrinkles at the outer corner of the eye, they become less noticeable over time. For one month after surgery, avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, and alcohol, and take thorough sun protection measures.

Risks and Precautions

The main risks associated with lateral canthoplasty include temporary swelling, bruising, scar redness, asymmetry, and relapse (morphological changes due to scar contraction of the external canthus). The surgeon's technique and anatomical knowledge significantly influence the outcome, making it important for an experienced physician to perform the procedure. During the wound healing process, skin may contract and minor relapse may occur. Please feel free to address any concerns during your consultation.