Lateral Canthoplasty Surgery: Complete Guide

Lateral canthoplasty is a cosmetic surgery designed to refine the corner of the eye for both functional and aesthetic purposes.

Dr. Joel Kopelman utilizes advanced techniques to achieve natural-looking results while restoring eyelid function.

Key Takeaways

• Lateral canthoplasty tightens the outer corner where the eyelids meet to correct sagging and enhance eye shape.
• The procedure involves small incisions and is often combined with upper and lower eyelid surgeries for full rejuvenation.
• Most patients experience a short recovery time after canthoplasty, with swelling and bruising subsiding within 7 to 10 days.
• Choosing an experienced oculoplastic surgeon, such as Dr. Joel Kopelman, ensures safe outcomes and natural-looking results.

Understanding Lateral Canthoplasty

What Is Lateral Canthoplasty?

Lateral canthoplasty is a surgery that tightens the canthal tendon in the outer corner of the eye where the upper and lower eyelids meet.

It corrects problems such as eyelid laxity and sagging eyelids, often caused by aging or previous surgeries. Patients often notice better eyelid function and a more almond-shaped look after recovery.

Canthopexy vs Canthoplasty: Key Differences

Canthoplasty surgery rebuilds the canthal tendon for long-term support and stability. Canthopexy uses stitches to tighten the area without cutting or reshaping. 

Canthoplasty is better for severe eyelid laxity or when patients want a cat eye effect.

Upper Lateral Canthoplasty and Lateral Canthotomy

Upper lateral canthoplasty addresses sagging in the upper eyelid, while lateral canthotomy is used to release tension in the lower eyelid.

Both can be combined with other eyelid surgeries for a full eye lift and rejuvenation.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Lateral Canthoplasty?

This surgery works well for people with sagging eyelids, eyelid malpositions, or those wanting almond-shaped eyes.

A board-certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Kopelman, will assess whether the patient’s eyelid structure and health make them a suitable candidate.

The Lateral Canthoplasty Procedure

Surgical Procedure and Techniques

Patients should know there are different surgical procedures for lateral canthoplasty. These include lateral tarsal strip, wedge resection, or canthal tendon plication. Each method helps tighten the eyelid and improve its shape.

In some cases, lateral canthoplasty is done with upper eyelid surgery or medial canthoplasty. This approach can help people with more than one eyelid issue or those wanting a bigger change in appearance.

The procedure starts with small incisions near the outer corner of the eye. Dr. Kopelman then tightens and repositions the canthal tendon. The incisions are closed carefully to keep scars as small as possible.

After Surgery: Recovery, Risks, and Results

Recovery Time and Healing Tips

Patients can expect some swelling and bruising. Here’s a typical timeline:

• Days 1–3: Swelling and bruising are at their worst. Use cold compresses.
• Days 4–7: Stitches are often removed.
• Week 2: Most swelling goes down. Normal activities may be resumed.
• Weeks 3–4: Patients can often wear makeup and do light exercise.

It’s essential to avoid strenuous activities for two weeks to allow the eyelids to heal properly. For most patients, the canthoplasty recovery time is short, with noticeable improvements after the first week.

Before and After Results: What to Expect and Longevity

Lateral canthoplasty before and after photos often show a subtle lift in the outer eyelids, better symmetry, and a more defined eye shape. These results can last for years, but some changes may happen as part of natural aging.

 Possible Risks and Complications

While this cosmetic surgery is safe in expert hands, risks may include:

• Infection or bleeding
• Temporary changes in eyelid position
• Dry eyes or irritation
• Uneven eyelid shape
• Rarely, the need for revision surgery

Dr. Kopelman employs meticulous techniques to minimize these risks. Regular post-operative check-ups are important to identify and address problems early.

Lifestyle Considerations Before and After Surgery

Patients preparing for lateral canthoplasty should plan for some lifestyle adjustments. Before surgery, avoid smoking and blood-thinning medications to lower surgical risks. After surgery, follow these tips:

• Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
• Avoid strenuous activities for at least two weeks.
• Protect your eyes from sun exposure and wind during healing.
• Stick to your surgeon’s instructions for cleaning and caring for the area.

These small changes support faster healing and better results.

Cost and Considerations

Average Cost and Pricing Factors

The cost of canthoplasty surgery depends on the case, location, and surgeon’s experience. 

At Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery, the cost is personalized to each patient’s plan. On average, lateral canthoplasty surgery ranges between $7,500 and $8,500.

Things that affect pricing include anesthesia, facility fees, and whether other eyelid surgeries are done at the same time. Patients get a detailed estimate during their first visit.

Finding the Right Surgeon

Surgeon Qualifications and Certifications

It’s vital to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience. Dr. Kopelman has decades of practice and is known for safe and precise canthoplasty procedures.

Reviewing Before and After Galleries

During a consultation, Dr. Kopelman checks the patient’s eyelid structure and reviews their health history. Patients can also see before-and-after photos to help them understand possible results. This step helps them feel confident about the surgery.

To learn more and take the first step, you can schedule a consultation with Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery for a personalized assessment.

Why Choose Dr. Joel Kopelman for Canthoplasty Surgery?

Dr. Joel Kopelman is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 35 years of experience in eyelid and facial surgeries. His expertise in delicate canthoplasty procedures helps patients achieve natural-looking results with minimal risks. 

With a reputation for precision and patient care, Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery is a trusted choice for advanced eyelid surgery.