Canthoplasty Risks - Blindness?

Question

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 ?

Stephen Prendiville, MD · Answer

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, informed consent requires a frank discussion of possible untoward effects of surgery and a Surgeon is required in the United States to disclose these risks. The reality:in the hands of a skilled Facial Plastic Surgeon, Plastic Surgeon, or Occuloplastic Surgeon (assuming you follow your preoperative instructions), you have a higher risk of being involved in a traffic accident in a parking lot than losing your vision during a canthoplasty.

Mehryar (Ray) Taban, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Raghu Athre, MD · Answer

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 can cause pressure on the optic structures.  One can minimize the risk of such complications by minimizing anti-coagulation meds like aspirin, etc.

	So, sleep easier, this isn't something that should cause you a great amt. of concern.

Steven Schuster, MD, FACS · Answer

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 Wallach, MD · Answer

Any eye procedure runs a risk of blindness.  This is extremely rare with this type of surgery, and I have never heard it occur.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Never have seen , nor heard of this complication with only a canthoplasty. Maybe the surgeon is just covering all possible occurrences.

Canthoplasty Risks - Blindness?

Answers (6)

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