Canthoplasty (Almond Eye Surgery)

Canthoplasty is surgery on the lateral canthus, the point where the upper and lower eyelids meet at the outer corner of the eye. Working through a tiny incision hidden in the natural crease, the surgeon adjusts the lateral canthal tendon that anchors the lid to the bony rim, then repositions and secures the corner at a slightly higher, more lifted angle. This subtle change tilts the outer corner upward and gives the eye a longer, almond or cat eye contour. The aim is harmony with the brow, cheek and the rest of the face, so the eyes look refreshed and expressive rather than altered. A related procedure, canthopexy, simply tightens and re-suspends the same corner without fully detaching it, and the surgeon chooses between them according to how much lift and support each eye needs.

Canthoplasty serves two purposes that often overlap. As a cosmetic operation it lifts a flat or downturned outer corner, elongates a round eye toward an almond shape and improves the symmetry and youthful balance of the eyes within the face. As a reconstructive operation it corrects laxity of the lower lid, where the corner has loosened with age or after previous surgery, and it treats a lower lid that turns outward, a position that can leave the eye exposed, watery and irritated. By re-anchoring and tightening the outer corner, the surgeon restores the lid to firm contact with the eye, which protects the surface and relieves the dryness and watering that laxity causes. Many patients combine canthoplasty with eyelid surgery or a brow lift so that the upper lid, lower lid and corner are addressed together for a balanced result.

A good candidate is in general good health, has realistic expectations and is bothered by a downturned or tired looking outer corner, by loose or sagging lower lids, or by a lid that turns outward and irritates the eye. Planning starts with a detailed consultation that reviews your goals, examines the tone and position of the lids, checks the health of the eye surface and tear film and discusses your medical history. Photographs and sometimes simulations help align expectations on how much lift is natural for your face. Smoking and certain blood thinning medicines and supplements slow healing and are paused in advance on medical advice. For international patients much of this assessment can begin remotely, with photographs and a health questionnaire reviewed before travel and the final examination completed in person on arrival.

Canthoplasty is usually performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, so the area is fully numb and you are relaxed and comfortable; general anaesthesia is used mainly when the corner work is combined with larger procedures. The surgeon makes a small, precise incision at the outer corner, placed within the natural crease so any mark is well hidden. The lateral canthal tendon is released, then the corner is lifted to the planned angle and secured to the firm tissue at the orbital rim with fine sutures, which sets the new almond contour and tightens a loose lower lid. The exact technique and the amount of lift are tailored to your anatomy and goals, with great care taken to keep the result subtle and the two eyes symmetrical. The operation usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, and most people go home the same day with the eye protected.

After canthoplasty some swelling, bruising and a tight or mildly tender feeling around the outer corner are normal in the first days and are eased with simple pain relief. Lubricating drops or ointment keep the eye comfortable, and the eyes are protected from sun, wind and strain while the tiny incisions heal. Most people take it easy for a week or so, avoiding heavy lifting and vigorous activity, and the visible swelling and bruising largely settle within 1 to 2 weeks. The new corner then refines gradually, with the final almond shape emerging over roughly 2 to 3 months as the tissues fully relax into position. Planning a trip abroad, it is sensible to stay in the destination city for about 5 to 7 days so any stitches can be checked or removed and early healing confirmed before you fly. Afterwards, follow-up continues remotely by message, photo or video, and international patient teams commonly provide interpreters and coordinators so that language is never a barrier.

Canthoplasty gives long lasting results: the outer corner stays in its new, lifted position for many years, and the reshaped almond contour is durable. As with the rest of the face, the skin and tissues continue to age slowly over time, and factors such as sun exposure and smoking can shorten how long the result looks its best, so a healthy lifestyle and sun protection help preserve it. Because the incisions are small and hidden in the natural creases of the eye, visible scarring is usually minimal and fades as healing completes. When canthoplasty is performed for lower lid laxity or eversion, the functional benefit, a lid that sits correctly against the eye and protects its surface, is likewise long lasting. The aim throughout is a natural, balanced and lasting improvement that suits the whole face.