Canthoplasty in London & UK


Canthoplasty is a form of cosmetic surgery that is performed on the lower eyelids. It is carried out in order to correct droopy eyelids and to prevent this happening in the future. It is a relatively simple procedure that usually lasts around 1-2 hours and it is generally carried out using a local anesthetic and a sedative. It should not be confused with Canthopexy, which is a similar, but different procedure carried out on the eyelids. Canthoplasty can also be called inferior retinacular suspension, tarsal strip re-suspension or lateral retinacular suspension. The surgery is also often carried out in conjunction with other surgeries such as a brow lift or a face-lift.

The muscle of the lower eyelid can lose its elasticity over time and create an unwanted sagging effect that makes the eyes look old. Many patients opt for this type of surgery to enhance the look of their eyes and give them a rejuvenated appearance. Canthoplasty works by making an incision in the junction of the eyelid and cutting the tendon that supports the lid. This tendon is then repositioned and stitched, making it tighter so that it will provide more support for the eyelid. This whole process lasts under two hours and is carried out whilst you are awake. However, you will not feel any pain as the area around the eyes is numbed and you will be given a sedative so you will feel drowsy.


The recovery period after this sort of surgery is relatively small as such as small area has been operated on. You will feel uncomfortable for a few days after the surgery and will have bruising and swelling around the eyelids for a couple of days. However, the side effects of the surgery are minimal and you should be able to return to work after two days. A great advantage of this form of cosmetic surgery is that it is an outpatient procedure and you can usually go home two hours after the operation has been completed.  However, you will have been given a sedative to help you relax so you will need a designated driver to help you.

Canthoplasty can be carried out on a person of any age but usually it is carried out on patients older than 30. It is advised that if you want Canthoplasty and are under the age of 20, you wait until you are over that age to make sure the eyelids don’t straighten themselves out during development. You need to be of good physical health and be realistic about the outcome of the surgery. Canthoplasty has many benefits as it can correct eyelid problems such as Ectropion, make the eyes appear younger and it can also improve self-esteem. However, there are risks to the procedure so make sure that you talk to your surgeon about these before you agree on Canthoplasty.


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