Canthoplasty Risks - Blindness?

asked 1 year ago by Lon in London
Latest answer by Raghu Athre, MD
Question viewed 231 times
Tags: blindness, risk

I learn't that blindness is a risk of canthoplasty. Is there a way to prevent blindness ? Are there any new techniques that eliminates this risk ?

7 answers to Canthoplasty Risks - Blindness?

Risks of Eyelid Surgery

Any discussion of the risks and benefits of lower eyelid surgery requires the disclosure that, in rare cases, blindness has occurred. The majority of case reports I have read about involve uncontrolled blood pressure and aspirin use, in an era where the anti-platelet function of aspirin was poorly understood (1970's). I have personally never seen or heard about a case of blindness related to eyelid surgery in my training, or during my time in practice. However,... more

Stephen Prendiville, MD
Fort Myers Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.drprendiville.com

Blindness is not something you need to worry about.

The title sounds crazy, but is true. The orbital septum is the fence between the "external eye", and the "internal eye". Any procedure that crosses this fence carries the potential risk of blindness. Your risk of being in a fatal auto accident is probably greatly higher. However, it is important that your surgeon does disclose this, and him disclosing this makes him a good doc. What the risk is having bleeding behind the eyeball that... more

Raghu Athre, MD
Houston Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.athresurgical.com

Canthoplasty and blindness low risk

Fortunately the risk of blindness from a blepharoplasty and canthoplasty/canthopexy is extremely low. There have been several repoprted cases and there are things to watch out for but for the most part your surgeon is doing a very good job of informing you. Unless there are other factors you haven't discussed with us I would see no reason not to proceed unless you have significant fears. Good luck.

Steven Schuster, MD
Boca Raton Plastic Surgeon

Blindness as a risk of canthoplasty

Any eyelid surgery that violates the orbital septum carries a risk of vision loss. The risk is remote and if it occurs it is treatable if appropriate care is rendered in a timely fashion. Ask your surgeon how s/he would handle that situation. Stop blood thinners prior to surgery and don't worry about it too much.

Peter T. Truong, MD
Fresno Oculoplastic Surgeon

www.facialsurgerydr.com

Eyelid surgery risks

The risk of "blindness" after canthoplasty or other eyelid surgeries is very, very rare (secondary to untreated orbital hemorrhage). Avoiding blood thinners before surgery is a good idea. Dr Taban