Will a Lateral Canthopexy Change the Shape of the Eyes on a 45 Year Old? Has my Doctor over Tightened One Side? (photo)

Question

7 days ago i had a lateral cantholpexy performed at the same time as rhinoplasty. We agreed to do a Lower Blepharoplasty to remove the bags under my eyes, but not a LC. My doctor assures me the shape will return to normal within 2-3 months. I am worried about perm. altering the shape of my eyes more asian/upward, which i do not want....and that he has overtightened one side? I really hope I am worrying for nothing? Can this procedure be adjusted if not?

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

The resolution will also bring changes to your eye appearance.  Generally canthoplasty is not a cosmetic procedure.  It is performed as part of other reconstructive procedures.  Unfortunatley many surgeons have started performing this procedure in the mistaken belief that it helps make the eye more youthful.  The consequences of the procedure will very much depend on how much of your lower eyelid was resected as part of your canthoplasty.  Right now the eyelid looks pulled up and slanted.  The natural process of tissue stretch back will reduce the severity of this.  In the process, this will also pull the outer corner toward the center of the eye.  This induces a disinsertion of the lateral canthal angle and potentially a rounding of the cornea of the eye.  Some interpret these changes as "my eye got smaller after surgery."  Bottom line, at this point you need to heal.  There will be softening of your current appearance.  Ultimately you may be very satisfied with your appearance or you may feel that you need this aspect of your surgery revised.

John L. Burns Jr., MD · Answer

The term canthopexy refers to the tightening or repositioning of the lateral canthal tendon.  This provides support to the lower eyelid in conjuntion with lower eyelid rejuvenation/blepharoplasty.  Overtightening or incorrect positioning of the lateral canthal tendon can distort the eyelid altering the shape.  It is important for the surgeon to precisely place the lateral canthal tendon with the correct tension.

Thomas Buonassisi, MD · Answer

Your 7 day post op photos look good. This is what you can expect from a canthopexy at your stage of healing.The position of the lids will return to a normal position with time. What"s important is that they are less likely to retract in to a lower than normal postion following the lower lid blepharoplasty.The Canthopexy was an appropriate step in your surgery to help prevent post operative lower lid retraction.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

The photograph demonstrates nothing of concern at this point in convalescence. With time both lids should relax and a revisional procedure will be unlikely.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The lateral canthopexy will relax, and patients always complain about the awkward looking shape after the procedure.

Will a Lateral Canthopexy Change the Shape of the Eyes on a 45 Year Old? Has my Doctor over Tightened One Side? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Bilateral canthoplasty often look amiss for a few weeks.

Answer: Bilateral canthoplasty often look amiss for a few weeks.

Answer: Lateral Canthopexy Will Relax

Answer: Lateral Canthopexy Will Relax

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Will a Lateral Canthopexy Change the Shape of the Eyes on a 45 Year Old? Has my Doctor over Tightened One Side? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Bilateral canthoplasty often look amiss for a few weeks.

Answer: Bilateral canthoplasty often look amiss for a few weeks.

Answer: Lateral Canthopexy Will Relax

Answer: Lateral Canthopexy Will Relax

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.