Treatment Overview
Lateral Canthoplasty is a specialized eyelid surgery that reshapes and repositions the outer corner of the eyes (lateral canthus) to make the eyes appear larger, longer, and more defined. Unlike canthopexy, which only tightens the canthal tendon, lateral canthoplasty involves carefully cutting and reconstructing the outer canthus to permanently alter the eye shape.
In Korea, surgeons have perfected lateral canthoplasty to achieve natural results that elongate the eye horizontally while maintaining harmony with facial features. This procedure is especially popular among patients seeking a more balanced, almond-shaped, or exotic eye appearance.
Purpose & Benefits
- Enlarges the eyes by extending the outer corners
- Creates a more elongated, almond-shaped, or balanced eye contour
- Corrects upward-slanting or downward-slanting eye corners
- Enhances eye symmetry and overall attractiveness
- Provides permanent reshaping compared to temporary thread lifts
- Can be combined with epicanthoplasty or blepharoplasty for more dramatic results
Ideal Candidates
- Patients who want larger, more horizontally elongated eyes
- Individuals with upward-tilted outer eye corners who want a softer look
- Patients with downward-slanting eyes desiring a lifted effect
- Those seeking permanent eye reshaping beyond non-surgical methods
- Patients combining multiple eyelid surgeries for comprehensive results
Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary swelling and bruising around the eyes
- Asymmetry between eyes during the healing process
- Mild irritation or dryness (short-term)
- Rare risk of overcorrection or unnatural appearance if not tailored properly
- Small scars at the incision site (usually hidden in natural creases)
Surgical Techniques Used in Korea
Korean surgeons are renowned for their advanced and precise approaches to lateral canthoplasty:
- Lateral Canthus Extension: The outer corner is incised and repositioned to elongate the eye shape.
- Angle Redefinition: The angle of the outer eye is adjusted for a softer, more harmonious appearance.
- Canthal Tendon Adjustment: Reinforces stability and prevents recurrence of drooping.
- Scar-Minimization Techniques: Incisions are hidden within natural eyelid folds.
- Combination Procedures: Frequently paired with epicanthoplasty, blepharoplasty, or fox-eye lifts for enhanced results.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Swelling and bruising typically last 1–2 weeks.
- Stitches are usually removed in 5–7 days.
- Most patients return to daily activities within 7–10 days.
- Eye drops and ointments may be prescribed to reduce irritation.
- Final results become visible after 1–2 months as tissues settle.
Results & Longevity
- Larger, elongated eyes with improved definition
- Balanced and natural outer eye contour
- Permanent reshaping with long-term stability
- Youthful and attractive eye appearance
- Results typically last 10+ years, depending on aging and skin elasticity
Treatment Process in Korea
Korea is a global leader in eye reshaping surgeries, including lateral canthoplasty:
- Precision Techniques: Korean surgeons emphasize natural elongation without overcorrection.
- Customization: Each procedure is tailored to the patient’s facial balance and desired look.
- Advanced Planning: Digital imaging helps preview results before surgery.
- Integrated Care: Procedures may be combined with fat repositioning or brow lifts for overall rejuvenation.
- International Support: Seoul’s leading clinics provide translation services, aftercare support, and medical tourism packages.
Cost Range in Korea
The cost of Lateral Canthoplasty in Korea varies by surgeon expertise and clinic reputation:
- Basic Lateral Canthoplasty: ₩3,000,000 – ₩5,000,000 KRW ($2,300 – $3,900 USD)
- Advanced Canthoplasty with Combination Procedures: ₩5,000,000 – ₩7,500,000 KRW ($3,900 – $5,800 USD)
- Premium Clinics in Gangnam: ₩7,500,000 – ₩10,000,000 KRW ($5,800 – $7,700 USD)
- Revision or Complex Cases: ₩9,000,000 – ₩13,000,000 KRW ($7,000 – $10,000 USD)
In the U.S. and Europe, similar procedures often cost $10,000–$16,000, making Korea a cost-effective option with world-class expertise.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Renowned for natural and precise lateral canthoplasty.
- ID Hospital – Specializes in complex and revision eye surgeries.
- View Plastic Surgery – Popular with international patients for eye enlargement surgeries.
- Regen Plastic Surgery – Experts in scar-minimization and advanced eyelid correction.
- JW Plastic Surgery – Known for balanced, natural, and long-lasting results.
Summary
Lateral Canthoplasty in Korea is an advanced cosmetic eye surgery that permanently elongates and enhances the outer corners of the eyes, creating a bigger, more defined, and youthful look. By using precise techniques and scar-minimization methods, Korean surgeons achieve natural and long-lasting results. With Korea’s reputation for innovation, high safety standards, and affordable pricing, it has become one of the most popular destinations worldwide for patients seeking beautiful and balanced eye reshaping.
