Eyelids are a sensitive part of the body. When surgery is needed, skilled eyelid surgeons can use a variety of techniques to provide patients with the specific care they need. If you suffer from eye-related aesthetic or health concerns, a canthoplasty or lower blepharoplasty may be the ideal procedure you need.
As we age, eyes can sag, under-eye bags can appear, and the outer corners of the eye may start to lose the sharp angle. A canthoplasty recreates the eye’s upward, sharp angle, offering a more youthful look. A lower blepharoplasty has many benefits. These include the tightening of weakened skin, removing excess fat, and contouring of the lower eyelid for a smooth appearance.
Canthoplasty vs. Lower Blepharoplasty
To better understand the two procedures and which one is right for you, you must first know the details about canthoplasty. A lateral canthoplasty can enlarge the outer edge of the eye, potentially helping patients see more clearly and enhancing appearance. However, a lower blepharoplasty can correct defects or disfigurement of the eyelids by removing excess fat and modifying the eyelid contour. Lower eyelid blepharoplasty focuses primarily on removing bags under the eyes.
Both surgical methods can help ease an unfavorable impression and offer an ideal eye shape. A canthoplasty is appropriate for patients seeking a brighter and larger eye shape. Patients may notice positive changes in the outer eye area and achieve favorable outcomes from a canthoplasty procedure. Speak with a professional to determine which type of procedure is beneficial for your needs.
What a Canthoplasty Can Provide
According to the National Library of Medicine, a canthoplasty can enlarge the eye width and smooth features. In addition, the canthoplasty procedure can correct the outer tail of the eye and deliver strong results.
Patients who receive a canthoplasty can experience the following results:
- Favorable impressions
- The appearance of larger eyes
- The appearance of more symmetrical eyes
- The continuity of the lower eyelid margin is preserved
- Horizontal and vertical lengthening
- Correction of slanted eyes
- Proper contact with the lower eyelid and eyeball
The benefits of a canthoplasty are numerous, and the examples above demonstrate how the results benefit patients.
The Treatment Process
Those who opt for a canthoplasty must undergo a relatively easy surgical procedure. The treatment process is straightforward. In fact, those who receive a canthoplasty may experience the following during treatment:
- Anesthetic eye drops are applied to the eye.
- A small incision is made in the outer corner of the eyelid, between the upper and lower lid.
- The small incision relaxes into a natural smile line.
- The surgeon will release the lower eyelid tendon so that it can be retightened.
- Retightening the eyelid helps it slope upward toward the corner of the eye.
- Patients with loose eyelids may need some of the skin shaved off.
- Once tightening is complete, the corner of the eyelid is re-shaped with stitches.
Those who receive the above can expect to notice positive results such as a sharper angle to the eyelid. After surgery, oral antibiotics and special eye drops may be required.
Find Treatment Today
At Eye Plastic Surgery of Minnesota, our world-renowned oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Dewan, provides comprehensive services to patients. A trained expert in a variety of surgical solutions, including reconstructive, aesthetic, and revisional surgery, Dr. Dewan focuses on the eyelids and the area surrounding the eyes.
Because Dr. Dewan is a board-certified eyelid surgeon, patients can receive top-quality care at our eyelid surgery center. Whether you need a canthoplasty or a lower blepharoplasty, our experts can provide the treatment you need. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation. Form a strong doctor-patient bond and receive the surgical procedure you need today.