What Occurs During Canthoplasty Procedure?

The eyes are essential features of the face not only because of their function but also because of aesthetic purposes. For this reason, many individuals use different ways to enhance the appearance of their eyes, from cosmetics to different colored contact lenses to surgical procedures. One surgery that is often sought after by individuals who want a more youthful and almond-shaped eye contour is the canthoplasty procedure, otherwise known as cat-eye surgery. The purpose of this procedure is to enhance the shape and appearance of the eyes. An oculoplastic surgeon can help you achieve this look if that is what you want to achieve. They can also explain the procedure to you in more detail to help you understand what occurs during the canthoplasty procedure and keep your expectations realistic.

What Is Canthoplasty?

Canthoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure during which an oculoplastic surgeon reconstructs a patient’s eyelid. It involves the reshaping of the canthus, which is where the upper and lower eyelids meet. Patients who choose to get this procedure do so primarily for the following reasons:

They are bothered by their sagging eyelids.
They want to change the shape of their eyes.
They have uneven eyelids.
They are not satisfied with the shape of their eyes.
They want to manage a condition
They want to improve their vision.

There are two types of canthoplasty: one that reconstructs the outer canthus, or the junction of the eyelids closest to the ear, and one that reconstructs the inner canthus, or the corner of the eyes beside the nasal bridge. Each is performed by an oculoplastic surgeon, who is a highly trained ophthalmologist and plastic surgeon.

Canthoplasty can also be done to treat or manage ectropion, entropion, trauma, and cornea damage.

If you are wondering if canthoplasty is painful, the good news is that you will be under anesthesia. This means that you will not feel pain during the procedure. Sometimes, patients are given general anesthesia, which not only prevents them from feeling any pain but also puts them to sleep throughout the process. Other patients are given local anesthesia, which keeps them from feeling anything around the area but does not put them to sleep. With this type of anesthesia, patients will be awake.

The first step of this procedure is to give you your anesthesia. Once your surgeon is sure that the anesthesia is in effect, they will start making a small incision near your eyelid. They will then pull your muscles into position to tighten your eyelid tendon. Any excess skin, fat, and muscle will also be removed. By doing this, drooping and sagging in that area will be reduced. The small incision will be stitched close with fine sutures once the desired shape is achieved.

A canthoplasty procedure can take anything from 30 minutes to 3 hours. The exact length will depend on the type of procedure you undergo.

How to Prepare for the Procedure

During your consultation, ask your surgeon everything you want to know, including what to do and what not to do before the procedure. Your surgeon will most likely tell you:

Do not wear contact lenses for at least four weeks before the procedure.
Do not apply creams and other topical treatments on your face on the day of the procedure.
Ask someone you trust to drive you immediately after and for a few days following the procedure.
Ensure that someone can assist you at home after the procedure.
Undergo lab tests.
Stop smoking.

Recovery Process

As a normal part of recovery, you will experience some pain and discomfort, especially during the first few days. Remember to take your pain medications and other prescribed medications as instructed by your surgeon. Rest as much as you can and avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks. Wait for two weeks before wearing contact lenses.

Temporary swelling of the eyelids, bruising, itching of the eyes, and dryness are all normal experiences of patients during the recovery process. Expect gradual healing with every day an improvement of the previous day.

Fever or increased redness may mean something is wrong, and you should contact your surgeon immediately. If they are unavailable, you should go to the emergency room.

Although it is an outpatient procedure, complete recovery from canthoplasty may take two to four weeks. It may also take 1-2 weeks before the swelling and bruising will be gone. Your scars may still be slightly pink even after six months.

Consult an Oculoplastic Surgeon Today

Now that you know what occurs during the canthoplasty procedure, you should talk to a surgeon if the shape of your eyes is causing you undue stress or dissatisfaction. Be open about your goals, concerns, and apprehensions. Ask them about the risks involved, and do not forget to give them your detailed medical history. This information is crucial for the planning and success of your procedure. Consult a highly qualified oculoplastic surgeon today, and look forward to looking and feeling better.