Lateral Canthoplasty

What Is Lateral Canthoplasty?

Did you know that lateral canthoplasty is a specialized eyelid procedure designed to enhance the shape, width, and symmetry of the eyes? Popular in Korean facial aesthetics, this surgery adjusts the lateral canthus (outer corner of the eye) to create a more open, refreshed, and youthful appearance.

Lateral canthoplasty, sometimes called lateral canthal tendon tightening or outer eye corner lift, reshapes the outer eye corner to correct drooping, sagging, or elongated eye shapes. The procedure can complement double eyelid surgery, brow lifts, or facial rejuvenation for harmonious upper-face aesthetics.

At CK Plastic Surgery in Koreatown, Los Angeles, Dr. K. Charles Kim, M.D., F.A.C.S., uses precise surgical techniques to enhance eye aesthetics while preserving natural movement and minimizing scarring.

Why Choose Lateral Canthoplasty at CK Plastic Surgery

Patients choose Dr. Kim for lateral canthoplasty because:

• He is board-certified and fellowship-trained in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
• Extensive experience with Asian eyelid anatomy ensures natural-looking results.
• Every procedure is customized to the patient’s facial structure and desired outcome.
• Advanced techniques reduce visible scarring and accelerate recovery.
• Care is personalized, safe, and trustworthy, with a focus on patient satisfaction.

Benefits of Lateral Canthoplasty

Key advantages of this procedure include:

• Enlarges the lateral width of the eyes for a more open, bright appearance
• Corrects sagging or downward-slanting outer corners
• Enhances symmetry between both eyes
• Works in harmony with double eyelid surgery, ptosis correction, or brow lift
• Minimally visible scarring hidden along the natural eye crease

Lateral canthoplasty improves both function and aesthetics, providing patients with enhanced confidence and refreshed eye appearance.

Who Should Avoid Lateral Canthoplasty?

This procedure may not be suitable for:

• Individuals with active eye infections or chronic eye conditions
• Patients with bleeding disorders or uncontrolled medical conditions
• Those with unrealistic cosmetic expectations

During your consultation, Dr. Kim evaluates whether lateral canthoplasty, medial canthoplasty, or a non-surgical approach best achieves your aesthetic goals.

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Ideal Candidates

Ideal candidates are adults seeking:

• Wider, more proportionate eye shape
• Correction of sagging or downward-slanting outer eye corners
• Balanced eyelid symmetry after aging or previous surgery
• A refreshed appearance in combination with double eyelid surgery or brow lift

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The Procedure – What to Expect

Direct answer: Lateral canthoplasty is performed through small incisions at the outer corners of the eyes to tighten, reposition, or reshape the lateral canthal tendon, resulting in wider, more symmetrical eyes.

Step-by-Step Overview

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with sedation (“twilight sleep”) ensures comfort.
2. Incisions: Tiny, discreet incisions are made along the lateral canthus.
3. Canthal Adjustment: The outer eye corner is tightened or repositioned using precise suture techniques.
4. Symmetry Check: Dr. Kim ensures both eyes are evenly shaped and aligned.
5. Closure: Incisions are closed carefully for minimal scarring and fast healing.

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Recovery and Aftercare

Direct answer: Recovery typically lasts 1–2 weeks, with minor swelling, bruising, or tightness that gradually resolves.

Recovery Timeline:

• Days 1–3: Mild discomfort, swelling, or bruising around the eyes
• Week 1: Sutures removed, incisions begin to heal
• Weeks 2–3: Swelling continues to subside; final eye shape emerges

Aftercare Tips:

• Keep the head elevated when resting
• Avoid strenuous activity and eye rubbing
• Use prescribed medications or ointments as directed
• Follow all post-operative instructions from Dr. Kim

Surgery / Service Results

• Enhanced lateral width and symmetry of the eyes
• More youthful, refreshed, and balanced appearance
• Results typically last for many years and can complement other eye or facial surgeries

Keywords: lateral canthoplasty before and after, eye corner surgery Los Angeles, Korean eye widening, outer eye lift

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