Canthoplasty and Canthopexy

Canthopexy is a surgical procedure used to reinforce and stabilize the lateral (outer) canthus of the eye. The canthus is the corner of the eye where the upper and lower eyelids meet. Canthopexy is typically performed by oculoplastic surgeon and is used for both medical and cosmetic purposes.

The primary purpose of canthopexy is to provide additional support to the outer corner of the eye, helping to prevent or correct conditions like lateral canthal laxity, which is the weakening or loosening of the tissue that supports the lateral canthus. This condition can lead to issues like ectropion (outward turning of the eyelid) or lower eyelid retraction (drooping of the lower eyelid), affecting eyelid function and eye appearance.

Here’s how canthopexy works:

• Reinforcement of Lateral Canthus: During a canthopexy, the surgeon tightens and reinforces the lateral canthus by suturing it to adjacent structures or tissues, such as the bone or periosteum (the tissue covering the bone). This added support helps maintain the proper alignment of the eyelids and canthus.
• Correction of Lateral Canthal Laxity: Canthopexy is particularly useful for addressing mild to moderate lateral canthal laxity. By providing extra support to the outer corner of the eye, it helps prevent or correct conditions like ectropion and improves the overall function and appearance of the eyelids.
• Additional Surgeries: Depending on the severity of the eyelid condition, a canthopexy may be combined with other procedures such as skin grafts, spacer grafts such as hard palate or ear cartilage grafts, midface lifts, and more.
• Combination Surgery: Canthopexy can be performed in conjunction with other eyelid surgeries, such as blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) or ptosis repair (correction of droopy eyelids), to achieve comprehensive improvements in eyelid function and appearance.
• Cosmetic Canthopexy: In addition to functional canthopexy, there is a cosmetic variation known as cosmetic canthopexy. This procedure is primarily performed to modify the shape and appearance of the eye for aesthetic reasons. Cosmetic canthopexy can create a more “upward” or “cat-eye” appearance by altering the angle and position of the lateral canthus.

It’s important to note that canthopexy is a less invasive procedure than canthoplasty, which involves more extensive reconstruction of the lateral canthus. The choice between canthopexy and canthoplasty is based on the specific needs and goals of the patient, with canthopexy typically recommended for mild to moderate cases of lateral canthal laxity and when less extensive surgical intervention is required.

Whether for functional correction or cosmetic enhancement, the decision to undergo canthopexy or canthoplasty should be made in consultation with a qualified oculoplastic surgeon, who can provide a thorough evaluation and recommend the most appropriate approach based on the individual’s condition and desired outcomes. Dr. Sarah Avila is a double board-certified oculofacial surgeon in Miami who specializes in eyelids and canthoplasty/canthopexy surgery.