Skip to content Canthoplasty is a highly specialised surgical procedure focused on adjusting and reshaping the outer corner of the eye, known as the canthus. This surgery is performed to tighten or reposition the lower eyelid to improve both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the eye area. Many patients consider canthoplasty in Sydney to address different issues while maintaining the natural shape and function of the eyelids, providing both cosmetic enhancement and functional support.
Dr John Flood, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Sydney offers canthoplasty to patients who are looking for an effective solution to improve the structure and appearance of their eyes. Dr Flood’s extensive experience and knowledge in facial surgery ensure that the procedure is approached with precision. This page will provide detailed information about canthoplasty, including what the procedure entails, who it is suitable for, and what patients can expect throughout the surgical and recovery process.
Canthoplasty surgery is a procedure specifically designed to alter the shape or position of the lateral canthus—the outer corner where the upper and lower eyelids meet. The surgery is typically sought to tighten or elevate the lower eyelid. Canthoplasty addresses these issues by reinforcing the support structures of the lower eyelid, allowing for a more defined and balanced appearance.
The procedure involves making small incisions near the lateral canthus to access the tendons and muscles supporting the lower eyelid. By adjusting or tightening these structures, the surgeon can reposition the lower eyelid. Canthoplasty can also help prevent or treat functional issues, such as lower eyelid drooping (ectropion) or retraction, where the eyelid pulls away from the eye, causing irritation, dryness, or incomplete eye closure.
The primary goal of canthoplasty is to achieve an aesthetically pleasing result while preserving the eyelid’s normal function. It differs from blepharoplasty, which typically focuses on removing excess skin or fat from the eyelids, as canthoplasty is aimed specifically at reshaping and tightening the outer corner of the eyelid.
Canthoplasty surgery in Sydney offers a range of benefits for individuals looking to correct both cosmetic and functional issues related to the lower eyelid. Some of the key benefits include:
Whether the goal is to correct eyelid function or improve the aesthetics of the eye area, canthoplasty provides a reliable and effective solution.
Dr John Flood is a highly experienced and respected plastic and reconstructive surgeon with specialised training in facial surgery, including canthoplasty. After completing his Plastic Surgical training in Sydney, Dr Flood further honed his skills through a Fellowship in Maxillo-facial Surgery at South Western University in Dallas, Texas. During this fellowship, Dr Flood gained extensive experience in facial trauma repair, elective osteotomies, and facial aesthetic surgeries, including those involving the delicate structures of the eyelids.
Dr Flood is also a member of the Editorial Board for Selective Readings in Plastic Surgery, a leading educational resource used by plastic surgery trainees worldwide. His commitment to staying at the forefront of surgical techniques and developments ensures that his patients receive the most advanced care available. As a canthoplasty surgeon in Sydney, Dr Flood takes a personalised approach to each procedure, carefully assessing each patient’s individual needs and goals to deliver natural, harmonious results. With a deep understanding of facial anatomy and the subtleties of eyelid function, Dr Flood provides patients with high-quality care and expert surgical precision, ensuring that both cosmetic and functional concerns are addressed.
The first step in the canthoplasty process is an in-depth consultation with Dr John Flood. During this consultation, Dr Flood will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s eye anatomy, including the condition of the lower eyelids and the position of the lateral canthus. He will take the time to discuss the patient’s specific concerns, whether they are related to the appearance of the lower eyelids or functional issues such as eyelid retraction or incomplete closure.
During the consultation, Dr Flood will also review the patient’s medical history, including any previous eye or eyelid surgeries, as well as any underlying health conditions that may affect the procedure. This helps ensure that the surgery is safe and tailored to the individual’s specific needs.
Patients are encouraged to ask questions during the consultation, as this is an opportunity to understand the procedure fully and set realistic expectations. Dr Flood will provide detailed information about the surgical process, potential outcomes, and recovery period, allowing patients to make an informed decision about whether canthoplasty is the right option for them.
Preparing for canthoplasty surgery in Sydney involves several important steps to ensure that the patient is ready for the procedure and that the surgery is performed safely. Dr Flood and his team provide detailed pre-operative instructions that are curated according to the individual’s health and needs. These guidelines are designed to reduce the risk of complications and promote a smooth recovery.
By following these pre-operative guidelines, patients can help ensure that they are fully prepared for surgery and reduce the likelihood of complications.
Canthoplasty surgery is typically performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, but general anaesthesia may be used depending on the complexity of the case and the patient’s preferences. The choice of anaesthesia will be discussed during the pre-operative consultation to ensure the patient’s comfort during the procedure.
The surgery begins with the surgeon making small incisions near the lateral canthus, the outer corner of the eye. These incisions provide access to the tendons and muscles that support the lower eyelid. Dr Flood will carefully tighten or reposition these structures to lift and stabilise the lower eyelid, creating a more defined and naturally aligned appearance.
One of the key goals of canthoplasty is to ensure that the lower eyelid is not over-tightened or over-corrected, as this could result in an unnatural or “pulled” look. Instead, Dr Flood uses meticulous surgical techniques to create subtle, balanced changes that preserve the eyelid’s natural function and shape. Once the necessary adjustments have been made, the incisions are closed with fine sutures. The entire procedure usually takes between one and two hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
Recovery from canthoplasty generally involves some degree of swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the eyes, which are normal side effects of the surgery. Patients are provided with detailed post-operative care instructions to help manage these symptoms and ensure proper healing.
Most patients are able to return to work and normal activities within one to two weeks, although full recovery can take several months as the incisions heal and swelling continues to subside. Dr Flood will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor the patient’s recovery and ensure that the healing process is progressing as expected.
If you are considering canthoplasty, booking a consultation with Dr John Flood is the first step toward achieving your goals. Dr Flood offers a personalised approach to every patient, ensuring that the procedure is tailored to meet your individual needs and preferences.
Booking an appointment with Dr John Flood is straightforward. You can contact his office by phone or through the online contact form available on the website. Early booking is recommended to secure your preferred consultation time. The team will assist you in finding a convenient time for your visit and guide you through the process.
During your consultation, Dr Flood will conduct a detailed evaluation of your eye anatomy and discuss your concerns and goals for the surgery. This meeting is an opportunity for you to ask questions and gain a full understanding of the procedure, recovery, and expected outcomes. Based on the consultation, Dr Flood will develop a customised surgical plan that addresses both aesthetic and functional concerns, ensuring that you feel confident moving forward with the surgery.
The initial recovery time following canthoplasty is typically one to two weeks, during which most of the swelling and bruising will resolve. However, it may take several months for the final results to fully appear as the tissues continue to heal and settle. Patients are advised to follow Dr Flood’s post-operative care instructions closely to ensure a smooth recovery and to attend all follow-up appointments for proper monitoring.
As with any surgical procedure, canthoplasty carries potential risks, although complications are rare when performed by a qualified surgeon like Dr John Flood. Some possible risks include infection, scarring, changes in sensation around the eyelid, and asymmetry between the eyes. Dr Flood takes all necessary precautions to minimise these risks and will discuss them in detail during the consultation. By following pre-and post-operative care instructions, patients can further reduce the likelihood of complications.
The results of canthoplasty are typically long-lasting, particularly for patients who undergo the procedure to correct lower eyelid laxity. Once the eyelid has been repositioned and stabilised, the improvements are permanent, although the natural aging process will continue over time. Many patients find that the results of canthoplasty provide significant improvement in both the appearance and function of the eyelids for many years.
For any further inquiries or to schedule your consultation, please contact our clinic. Our team is here to assist you and provide the information and support you need.
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