Lower Canthoplasty (Lower Canthoplasty)
A guide to lower canthoplasty, which lowers the outer line of the lower lid to reveal the hidden lower sclera, widening the eye vertically for a gentler, softer eye area.
Lower Canthoplasty, In short?
Lower canthoplasty lowers the outer line of the lower lid so the previously hidden lower sclera shows naturally, widening the eye vertically for a gentler, softer impression. It is considered when the outer corner rides high and looks sharp or heavy, or when almost no lower sclera shows and the eye looks small. Unlike lateral canthoplasty, which widens the eye horizontally, it focuses on vertical width, and the two are sometimes performed together. Lowering too far, however, can show too much lower sclera or turn the lower lid outward (ectropion), so the supporting tissue beneath the eye and skin elasticity are examined together and the extent of adjustment planned carefully. Results and the pace of recovery vary from person to person.
Source: SM Plastic Surgery Lee Mooyoung Director (board-certified plastic surgeon, clinical experience 24 years)
Key Facts
| Procedure time | Approx. 30-40 minutes |
|---|---|
| Anesthesia Method | Local / sedation |
| Return to daily life | After 5–7 days |
| Suture Removal | After 5–7 days |
| Follow-up visits | 1–2 times |
Procedure Information
Treatment Area: Eyes
Procedure Type: Surgical procedure
Attending Physician: Director Lee Mooyoung
SM's approach
Frequently Asked Questions
How do lower and lateral canthoplasty differ?
Lateral canthoplasty opens the outer corner to widen the eye horizontally; lower canthoplasty lowers the outer line of the lower lid to widen it vertically and reveal the hidden lower sclera. Because they enlarge in different directions they are sometimes combined, and the method that suits is chosen by the eye and the impression you want.
Does lower canthoplasty make the eyes look gentler?
An impression that looked sharp, with the outer corner riding high, can shift toward softer and gentler as the lower line comes down. How far suits varies with the whole face and the balance of the eye area, so adjusting within a restrained range matters. Results vary from person to person.
I worry the lower lid will sag after lower canthoplasty
Lowering the line too far, or weak supporting tissue, can show too much lower sclera or turn the lower lid outward (ectropion). To reduce this, the elasticity and supporting strength of the lower lid are assessed before surgery and the extent of adjustment planned carefully.
Is the lower canthoplasty scar noticeable?
The incision follows the outer line of the lower lid, with fine suturing aiming to keep scarring down. Fading takes time, and how well it heals varies with constitution and care.
Can lower canthoplasty and double-eyelid surgery be done together?
Yes. Where the whole eye area is adjusted together with double-eyelid surgery or lateral canthoplasty, vertical and horizontal width and the impression of the line are considered together and combined harmoniously. Whether to combine is decided after careful consultation, by the eye and the goal.
Consultation guide
Phone: +82-2-537-3707
Location: 9F, 435 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea (Gangnam Station)