Eye surgery
Canthoplasty (Inner, Lateral, and Lower Eye Opening)
Canthoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to lengthen the horizontal width of the eyes or adjust the angle of the eye corners. It helps transform small or sharp-looking eyes into a larger, clearer, and more refreshed appearance.
Who it suits
- Individuals with short eye width or "Mongolian folds" covering the inner corners.
- Those with upward-slanting outer eye corners that create a sharp or fierce look.
- People who want larger, clearer, and more defined eyes without changing the eyelid crease.
Technique highlights
- Customized incision techniques (Medial, Lateral, or Lower) to balance facial proportions.
- Minimal scarring by utilizing internal conjunctival incisions for lateral procedures.
- Prevents tissue re-adhesion to ensure long-lasting results.
Surgical steps
- Initial consultation to measure eye proportions and choose the appropriate opening method.
- Administration of local anesthesia or mild sedation for patient comfort.
- Precise incision at the corner of the eye (inner, outer, or lower) to remove excess skin or reposition tissue.
- Fixing the outer eye corner to the periosteum to prevent the skin from re-closing.
- Closing the incision with fine sutures, often hidden along the natural lash line or inside the eyelid.
Recovery & aftercare
- Day 1-3: Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling. Avoid rubbing the eyes.
- Day 7: Return to the clinic for stitch removal. Most swelling subsides.
- Week 2: Light makeup can be applied around the eyes. Residual bruising fades.
- Month 1-3: Tissues heal completely, and the final eye shape becomes apparent.
Risks & things to consider
- Swelling and bruising are normal and typically subside within 1–2 weeks.
- Possible scarring if the patient has a tendency for keloids, though incisions are usually hidden.
- Over-correction may lead to dry eyes or difficulty closing eyes completely in early stages.
- Risks of infection or inflammation if post-operative care instructions are not followed.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the procedure and recovery time?
The surgery takes about 30 minutes under local anesthesia or sedation. Recovery typically takes 7 days until stitch removal.
Will there be visible scars after canthoplasty?
Modern techniques involve hidden incisions inside the conjunctiva or along the natural lash line to minimize visible scarring.
Can I do multiple types of canthoplasty at once?
Yes, lateral and lower canthoplasty are often combined to create a "Bambi eye" look, making the eyes appear significantly larger and softer.
Cases in this area
Before & After gallery





Case photos show individual results. Outcomes vary with anatomy and aftercare.
Other procedures in this area
- Bambi Eyelid Surgery (Full Eye Reshaping)
- Skinny Incision Double Eyelid Surgery in Korea
- Seven-Lock Non-Incisional Double Eyelid Surgery
- Partial Incision Double Eyelid Surgery
- Dual Canthoplasty (Lateral and Lower Eye Corner Surgery)
- Ptosis Correction (Droopy Eyelid Surgery)
- Revision Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty Revision)
Adapted from ID Hospital official material · View source page