Introduction

It’s not uncommon for patients—both in Korea and abroad—to look in the mirror and feel that their eyes don’t fully reflect who they are. Maybe they appear smaller or more tired than one feels inside. In many cultures, especially across East Asia, the eyes are seen as a central point of beauty and emotional expression. That’s why procedures like canthoplasty have become increasingly popular—not just to enhance beauty, but to restore confidence.

Let’s explore what canthoplasty is, who it’s for, and what you can expect—from consultation to recovery.

What Is Canthoplasty?

Depending on the desired result, canthoplasty may be done in different forms:

• Lateral canthoplasty: Widens and elongates the outer eye horizontally.
• Epicanthoplasty: Targets the inner corner (medial canthus) to reduce the appearance of a Mongolian fold.
• Lower lid canthoplasty (canthopexy): Tightens the lower lid to correct sagging or droopiness.

This procedure is often combined with other eyelid surgeries for optimal results, such as:

• Double eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
• Ptosis correction
• Under-eye fat repositioning

The procedure has both aesthetic and functional purposes. Aesthetically, it widens the horizontal axis of the eye and softens sharp or downward-turning corners. Functionally, it can provide support for the eyelids, helping prevent conditions such as ectropion (outward turning of the lower eyelid).

Why Do People Choose Canthoplasty?

1. Desire for a More Defined Eye Shape

Some patients are born with naturally shorter or upward-slanting eyes that they feel make them look harsh, sleepy, or closed off. Lateral canthoplasty helps soften the gaze and create a more approachable, feminine, or youthful look. In East Asian beauty standards, a longer, almond-shaped eye is often considered more aesthetically pleasing, as it enhances facial balance.

2. Correcting Previous Eyelid Surgery

If a prior procedure resulted in overly rounded or “pulled” lower eyelids, canthoplasty can help restore a more natural contour by re-anchoring the canthus. Revision canthoplasty is a highly specialized form of the procedure and should be handled by experienced surgeons familiar with complex eyelid anatomy—like Dr. Park and his team at Face Plus.

3. Sagging or Aging Around the Outer Corners

With age, the skin and connective tissues around the eyes lose elasticity, and the outer eye area may droop. This results in a tired or sad appearance. Canthoplasty can provide subtle lift and firmness to rejuvenate the look while also offering better eyelid support, especially in patients undergoing lower blepharoplasty.

4. Cultural and Personal Aesthetic Goals

In Korea, as well as among international patients, there is a growing preference for harmonious, proportionate facial features. A longer, more horizontally oriented eye can appear more expressive and emotionally accessible. Canthoplasty is often requested by patients who want a naturally enhanced appearance without looking overly surgically altered.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Canthoplasty?

You may be a strong candidate if:

• You have downward-tilting, short, or narrow-set eyes

• You want a more elongated, balanced eye shape

• You’re looking to refine the results of previous eyelid surgery

• Your outer eye corners appear droopy, harsh, or tired

• You have realistic expectations and are seeking subtle, natural enhancement

Patients with strong bone structure and good eyelid support typically experience the best outcomes. Those with weaker canthal tendons or very thin, inelastic skin may require a modified technique, such as canthopexy or reinforcement with internal sutures.

A consultation at Face Plus includes a 3D imaging analysis and facial proportion assessment to determine which procedures (if any) will help you achieve your aesthetic goals safely.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Key Steps Include:

1. Incision: A small, discreet incision is made at or near the lateral canthus.
2. Tendon Adjustment: The canthal tendon is released and repositioned to achieve the desired shape, tilt, and support.
3. Anchor Placement: The tendon is anchored to the orbital rim (bone structure) to stabilize the new position and prevent future drooping.
4. Skin Closure: The incision is closed using fine sutures designed to minimize scarring.

Recovery: What to Expect

Common Post-Op Experiences:

• Temporary tightness or foreign-body sensation around the eye

• Minor asymmetry that resolves as swelling decreases

• Dryness or sensitivity, especially in the first few days

We provide:

• Cold compress protocols to reduce swelling
• Lubricating eye drops to prevent dryness
• Customized aftercare checklists to support optimal healing

For best results, we advise patients to avoid:

• Rubbing or pulling the eyes

• Wearing eye makeup for at least two weeks

• Strenuous exercise or bending over during the first 2–3 weeks

Are There Risks?

As with any surgery, canthoplasty carries potential risks, though they are significantly minimized in experienced hands.

Possible Complications:

• Asymmetry or uneven eye shape

• Overcorrection or undercorrection

• Visible scarring (rare with precise technique)

• Prolonged swelling or redness

• Temporary difficulty fully closing the eyes

Canthoplasty vs. Canthopexy—What’s the Difference?

This is a common question we hear at our clinic. While they sound similar, they serve slightly different purposes.

• Canthoplasty is a reconstructive procedure that involves cutting and repositioning the tendon for structural changes and eye shape alteration.
• Canthopexy is a supportive procedure that tightens the existing tendon without cutting, mainly to prevent or correct drooping.

In some cases, both procedures may be performed together, especially when dealing with:

• Age-related laxity

• Post-blepharoplasty complications

• Revision of lower lid malposition

At Face Plus, we guide patients through the subtle differences and help determine the most appropriate option based on their anatomy and goals.

Why Choose Face Plus Plastic Surgery?

Our approach is rooted in:

• Artistic precision: We treat each face like a work of art, enhancing without erasing.
• Safety-first philosophy: Patient safety and comfort are our top priorities.
• Cutting-edge techniques: From Ultherapy to micro-thread lifting, we offer the latest non-invasive and surgical solutions.
• Personalized care: You’ll receive one-on-one attention and guidance through every phase of treatment.

Final Thoughts: Is Canthoplasty Right for You?