Difference between lower eyelid retraction repair, canthopexy, and canthoplasty?

Question

I see these terms used seemingly interchangeably so I’m not sure what each surgery does or if they’re all basically the same thing I have droopy lower eyelids that I would like straightened and is why I’m looking into this

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

A canthopexy is a weak lateral canthal surgery meant to reenforce the lower eyelid hammock function. It is done by slinging the orbicularis oculi muscle laterally with the intention of supporting the position of the lower eyelid. A lateral canthoplasty is a deeper, more powerful procedure that makes a strong attachment between the lower eyelid lateral canthal tendon structures to the orbital rim. It required a detailed understanding of the anatomy and experience to properly position that outer eyelid corner. While it is generally necessary to perform a canthoplasty in the repair of lower eyelid retraction, neither canthoplexy or canthoplasty have the strength to adequately repair lower eyelid retraction. I am attaching a surgical video of how I approach lower eyelid retraction.

Difference between lower eyelid retraction repair, canthopexy, and canthoplasty?

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