How to Prepare for Canthoplasty

A canthoplasty is a specific type of eyelid surgery that aims to create an “almond” shape for the eyes and eyelids. This has contributed to the other name of the surgery, almond eye surgery. Below, we cover how to prepare for canthoplasty.

During a canthoplasty, a physician tapers the outer edges of the eyelids in order to create a pointed shape at the edges. This type of procedure is particularly popular in cultures where this shape to the eye is considered a beauty standard.

However, like most types of serious plastic surgery, a certain amount of preparation is necessary to reap the best results from your procedure.

The Canthoplasty Basics

Canthoplasty reconstructs the eyelid by tightening the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues surrounding the eyelids. Usually, a patient chooses to receive this surgery to create an almond eye shape. However, there are many other uses for a canthoplasty. Some of the following are considered primary motivators for receiving this type of surgery:

Adjusting uneven eyelids
Changing the shape of your eye in general
Increasing your field of vision
Managing or treating a condition that impacts your eyelid
Reducing eyelid tilt
Tightening a sagging eyelid

Canthoplasty receives its name from the fact that the procedure aims to modify the canthus of the eyelid. This is the portion of the eyelid in the corner where the upper and lower eyelids meet. There are two major types of canthoplasty, each of which excels at producing different results:

Lateral canthoplasty: A procedure that reconstructs the outer canthus, or the corner of the eye opposite to the nasal bridge that points towards one’s ears.
Epi-canthoplasty: A procedure that reconstructs the inner canthus, or the corner nearest to the nasal bridge.

Preparing for a Canthoplasty

Prior to receiving any surgical treatment, you’ll meet with a surgeon who will examine your eyes and talk to you about your aesthetic or medical goals with the surgery. This is also the time when you’ll schedule your surgery.

There are several steps that you might take prior to your procedure to ensure safety and efficacy during your procedure. This includes the following steps:

Engaging in smoking cessation
Wearing glasses instead of contacts on the day of your surgery
Receiving lab testing
Making changes to medications and the supplements you take or taking additional medications

In addition, you should make arrangements to have someone drive you home after your surgery is complete. You might also need someone to assist you at home for a few days following your surgery until you feel comfortable operating on your own again.

What Occurs During Canthoplasty?

During a canthoplasty, you’ll be placed under anesthesia. Once you’re under the influence of the anesthetic, your surgeon will make a small incision near your eyelids. They’ll then tighten your eyelid tendons and muscles by pulling it into the desired position. In addition, your physician will attempt to reduce sagging or drooping eyelids.

Once the desired aesthetic effects are achieved, your physician will close the incisions with stitches. No pain should be experienced by the patient due to the effects of the anesthetic.

Post-Surgical Protocol

Following your procedure, your physician will give you a set of instructions following your procedure to maximize your results and avoid complications following the procedure. Some of these instructions might be included in your own instructions:

Not rubbing your eyes after the surgery
Avoiding strenuous exercise or activities for several weeks
Take any medications given by your physician as prescribed. This includes antibiotics, steroids, and artificial tears.
Avoid engaging in strenuous exercise or activities
Avoiding getting your surgical site wet in the days following your procedure
Attempt to sleep with your head elevated with pillows in the weeks following your procedure
Occasionally apply ice to your surgical site in the weeks following your procedure

You will also meet with your physician approximately one week following your procedure to discuss the progression of your healing and any extra steps to take moving forward. In addition, you should take care to notice the following risk factors and complications:

Bleeding
Swelling and bruising
Pain
Dry eyes
Eye infections
Difficulty closing your eyes
Bleeding

The appearance of these symptoms may indicate an issue with your procedure. This may necessitate returning to your physician for further work.

The Top Eye Surgeon in Minnesota

Eye Plastic Surgery of Minnesota is one of the best resources available for patients who are looking for a professionally executed Canthoplasty. If you’re interested in receiving this type of procedure, contact our eyelid surgeon today in order to schedule an appointment and start looking your best.