Canthoplasty vs Canthopexy: What’s the Difference?
Canthoplasty vs Canthopexy: What’s the Difference?
Canthoplasty and canthopexy are two procedures that involve the outer corner of the eye (lateral canthus). Although the names sound similar, they serve different purposes, involve different levels of surgical intervention, and are recommended for different patient needs.
Understanding the distinction is important for realistic expectations and proper surgical planning.
What Is the Lateral Canthus?
The lateral canthus is the outer corner where the upper and lower eyelids meet. It plays a critical role in:
- Eye shape and width
- Eyelid stability
- Proper eyelid closure and tear drainage
Procedures involving this area must balance aesthetic change and functional stability.
What Is Canthoplasty?
Definition
Canthoplasty is a reconstructive and reshaping surgery of the outer eye corner. It involves cutting, repositioning, and reattaching the lateral canthal tendon.
Purpose
Canthoplasty is used to:
- Change eye shape or width
- Correct downward or upward slant
- Repair eyelid instability
- Address structural problems
It is commonly used for aesthetic eye enlargement or significant shape correction.
Key Characteristics
- Involves cutting and reconstruction
- Produces more visible and lasting changes
- Requires precise fixation to prevent relapse
- Longer recovery compared to canthopexy
In Korea, lateral canthoplasty is performed conservatively to prioritize long-term stability.
What Is Canthopexy?
Definition
Canthopexy is a supportive tightening procedure that reinforces the outer eye corner without cutting or fully reconstructing the tendon.
Purpose
Canthopexy is used to:
- Provide additional eyelid support
- Prevent drooping or laxity
- Stabilize the eyelid during other eye surgeries
It is often performed as an adjunct procedure, not a primary reshaping surgery.
Key Characteristics
- No cutting of the canthal tendon
- Subtle tightening rather than reshaping
- Shorter recovery time
- Less dramatic visual change
Canthopexy is frequently combined with lower eyelid surgery or eye bag surgery to prevent post-operative sagging.
Canthoplasty vs Canthopexy: Key Differences
Surgical Intensity
- Canthoplasty: Structural reconstruction
- Canthopexy: Supportive tightening
Purpose
- Canthoplasty: Shape and width change
- Canthopexy: Stability and prevention
Degree of Change
- Canthoplasty: Moderate (when indicated)
- Canthopexy: Minimal and subtle
Recovery
- Canthoplasty: Longer swelling and tightness
- Canthopexy: Faster recovery
Use Case
- Canthoplasty: Eye enlargement or reshaping
- Canthopexy: Support during other procedures
Which Procedure Is Right for You?
You may be a better candidate for canthoplasty if you:
- Want horizontal eye enlargement
- Need correction of eye slant or shape
- Have sufficient lower eyelid support
- Understand anatomical limits
You may be better suited for canthopexy if you:
- Are undergoing lower eyelid surgery
- Have mild eyelid laxity
- Need preventative support rather than shape change
A thorough eye anatomy evaluation is essential.
Common Misconceptions
- Canthopexy does not significantly enlarge the eyes
- Canthoplasty is not appropriate for everyone
- More aggressive surgery does not always mean better results
Overuse or improper indication can lead to instability, dryness, or unnatural eye shape.
Why Korea Emphasizes Conservative Use
In Korea, surgeons tend to:
- Use canthopexy to preserve eyelid stability
- Perform canthoplasty only when anatomy allows
- Avoid excessive lowering or pulling of the outer corner
This approach helps reduce relapse and long-term complications.
Risks and Considerations
Potential risks include:
- Temporary tightness or discomfort
- Swelling at the outer corner
- Relapse (more common with aggressive canthoplasty)
These risks are minimized with proper indication and surgical experience.
Final Thoughts
Canthoplasty and canthopexy serve different roles in eye surgery. Canthoplasty reshapes the outer eye corner and can influence eye width and shape, while canthopexy provides subtle support and stability without major visual change.
Choosing the right procedure depends on anatomy, surgical goals, and functional needs—not just terminology. Clear explanation during consultation is essential for safe, natural, and long-lasting results.




