Medical description
Canthopexy is a procedure that strengthens the tendon at the outer corner of the eye, known as the lateral canthus. With age, or after lower eyelid surgery, this tendon can become lax: the lower eyelid sags, more of the white of the eye shows below the iris and the eyes look sad or tired. Canthopexy repositions and secures this corner of the eye to restore support to the eyelid. It is often combined with a lower blepharoplasty, and may also be requested to slightly raise the outer corner of the eye for cosmetic reasons.
What the procedure can correct
- Drooping outer corner of the eye
- Loose lower eyelid or one that pulls away from the eye
- Too much of the white of the eye visible below the iris
- Sad or tired-looking eyes
- Prevention of sagging after a lower blepharoplasty
The ideal candidate
An adult in good health with laxity of the outer corner of the eye or of the lower eyelid, or who wishes to reinforce this support during a blepharoplasty. A prior eye examination is recommended in cases of dry eye or previous eyelid surgery.
The technique
The procedure is most often performed under local anaesthesia with sedation. Through a short incision at the outer corner of the eye, often placed in a natural crease, the surgeon tightens the canthal tendon and secures it to the bony rim of the eye socket with deep stitches. The skin is closed with fine stitches.
Your stay, step by step
- 1
Arrival and consultation
Welcome by your coordinator, examination and pre-operative consultation with the practitioner, who confirms the treatment plan.
- 2
Procedure
Local with sedation · 1–1.5 h
- 3
Back to the hotel
Day-case treatment: you return to your hotel the same day, accompanied.
- 4
Check-up before departure
Follow-up visit, care, instructions and prescription before your flight home. Recommended stay: 6–8 days.
- 5
Remote follow-up
Back home, your coordinator remains your contact and organises follow-up with the practitioner (photos and messages via WhatsApp, then through your secure patient area once it opens).
Risks and recovery
Swelling, bruising and a feeling of tightness at the corner of the eye are common in the first few days, together with temporary dry eyes. Less commonly, asymmetry, an over-stretched shape of the corner of the eye, infection, difficulty closing the eye or the need for a revision may occur. Your surgeon will explain these in detail during the consultation.
The information on this page is provided for guidance only and does not replace a medical consultation. Every procedure carries risks; the indication is made by the practitioner after examination, and results vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
Does canthopexy change the shape of my eyes?
It supports and may slightly raise the outer corner of the eye. Your surgeon adapts the degree of correction to your anatomy to keep a natural look, and will discuss this with you during the consultation.
Can it be combined with a blepharoplasty?
Yes, this is common. Combined with a lower blepharoplasty, it helps keep the eyelid well positioned while it heals.
Are the scars visible?
The incision is short and placed in the creases at the corner of the eye. It is generally barely visible once healing is complete.
