Posted by Dr. Miguel Fernández Calderón: 18/12/2025
If your gaze appears tired or sad, canthoplasty can help. It’s a subtle surgery that lifts the outer corner of the eye, achieving a more awake and balanced expression, with natural and discreet facial rejuvenation.
What is canthoplasty?
Canthoplasty reinforces the tendon of the outer eye corner to correct its descent over time, restoring a more almond-shaped and lifted appearance. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that seeks natural and functional results.
Who it’s indicated for (and who it’s not)
Canthoplasty is not for everyone and requires a personalized evaluation by our surgeons. It’s ideal for those seeking subtle corrections or preventing future problems, but is not recommended in cases of serious eye conditions or when dramatic changes are desired.
Most common aesthetic indications
It’s indicated to correct eyes that appear round or slightly drooping and convey an appearance of fatigue. It’s also an option for those desiring a more feline and youthful gaze, without aggressive procedures, as well as to harmonize subtle asymmetries between both eyes that affect facial expression.
Functional and preventive indications
It’s indicated in cases of lower eyelid laxity that partially exposes the sclera or causes occasional irritation. It’s also recommended in patients with previous blepharoplasties to prevent future retraction and provide additional support to help maintain adequate eye protection in the long term.
Ideal patient profile
Canthoplasty is typically for people between 35 and 60 years old who show initial signs of aging and enjoy good general health. They seek natural and harmonious results rather than drastic transformations, and are willing to follow postoperative instructions to ensure proper recovery.
Differences between canthoplasty, blepharoplasty, and canthal resurfacing
These surgical techniques focus on the eye area, although their methods are quite different. Understanding their differences will allow you to select the one that best suits your needs. They are often used together to obtain more complete results, but each addresses specific problems.
Differences from blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty removes excess skin, fat, and muscle in the eyelids to reduce bags and wrinkles. On the other hand, canthoplasty focuses solely on tightening and lifting the lateral canthus without removing tissue.
Differences from canthal resurfacing
Canthal resurfacing involves cutting and reconstructing the canthus tendon to make more significant or corrective changes. In contrast, canthoplasty only reinforces and repositions without needing to section structures, making it less invasive. Canthal resurfacing works in serious cases of malposition; while canthoplasty is sufficient for mild and preventive corrections.
How canthoplasty is performed step by step
This is an outpatient procedure that’s highly precise, designed to minimize discomfort.
Most common techniques and approaches
Access is through a small incision hidden in the fold of the upper or lateral eyelid. The canthus tendon is located and secured to the orbital periosteum with precise sutures. In some cases, a transconjunctival approach is used for greater discretion.
Anesthesia and procedure duration
Typically, local anesthesia is used together with mild sedation so you’re completely comfortable. The operation takes between 45 and 90 minutes, depending on whether it’s combined with other treatments. You go home the same day, with no need for extended clinic stay.
Is hospitalization needed?
No, it’s an outpatient procedure that lets you return home within a few hours. You’re kept under observation for a time to verify everything is in order. Most people can resume light activities the next day.
Results: what changes are realistic
Results are typically a subtle elevation of the outer canthus, providing a more open and rested gaze. Greater symmetry and a more vital expression are achieved, maintaining a natural appearance well integrated with the overall face, without obvious signs of surgery.
When final results are visible
Changes may be noticeable from the start, although temporary swelling can hide them in the first few weeks. The final result becomes apparent between the fourth and twelfth week, when the area has completely desicumated and tissues have stabilized. Patience is key to assessing the final effect.
How long do results last?
Effects generally last between 8 and 15 years, depending on your lifestyle and genetics. Using sunscreen and maintaining healthy habits help results last longer. Over time, natural aging may require subtle touch-ups.
Recovery and postoperative period
Recovery is quick and comfortable compared to other facial surgeries.
First 72 hours: swelling, bruising, and basic care
During the first 72 hours, swelling and minor bruising are normal. To manage them, it is recommended to apply local cold therapy, rest with your head slightly elevated, and use the prescribed lubricating eye drops. It is important to avoid physical exertion and, if discomfort appears, use only the prescribed painkillers.
Week 1: normal activities, medical leave, and check-ups
During the first week you can resume light daily activities, although many people opt for a few days of rest for greater comfort. During this period, the first medical check-up is performed, where your progress is evaluated and sutures are removed if necessary. Swelling typically decreases noticeably at this stage.
Makeup, glasses, and contact lenses: when yes and when no
It is advisable to postpone eye makeup and contact lens use for 10 to 15 days to ensure proper healing and prevent irritation. However, you can wear glasses from day one without any problem. Following these guidelines is key to protecting the area during the initial recovery phase.
Sports, sun, pool/sauna: reasonable timeframes
You can resume gentle exercise in two weeks, but if it involves intense sports, it is better to wait around one month.
It is suggested to avoid direct sun exposure, as well as pools and saunas, for at least four weeks. Additionally, it is very important to use high SPF sunscreen to protect the skin around your eyes during recovery.
Risks and possible complications
Like any surgery, canthopexy carries infrequent risks that are generally transitory and are reduced by choosing an experienced surgeon. The most common are swelling, bruising, or mild correctable asymmetries, while major complications are rare and are assessed during the consultation to make an informed decision.
How to choose a surgeon and clinic
It is very important to prioritize surgeons who specialize in oculoplastic surgery with demonstrated experience. Choose clinics like ours at Sculpture Clinic that have updated facilities, follow strict safety protocols, and present results you can verify through real reviews and cases similar to yours.
During the consultation, the professional should perform a personalized assessment, answer your questions clearly, and explain which procedure is appropriate for you—whether canthopexy or blepharoplasty. Verify their official credentials and membership in recognized medical societies, as trust and fluid communication with your surgeon are key to achieving a natural, safe, and lasting result.
Sources:
- https://elecaclinic.com/blog/que-es-cantopexia/
- https://beoneface.com/blog/que-es-la-cantopexia/
- https://doctorantolin.com/que-es-la-cantopexia/
- https://www.centroceme.com/cirugia/cantopexia/
