When you look in the mirror, have you ever noticed that one of your eyes is bigger than the other? Excess skin collects on the eyelids due to a lack of elasticity and the constant pull of gravity. Some people are born with a condition called Ptosis which affects a person’s appearance and self-esteem. Two cosmetic procedures commonly used to fix uneven eyelids are blepharoplasty and canthoplasty.

What is Ptosis?

Ptosis is defined as an abnormally low position or drooping of the upper eyelid. 

There are 4 causes of upper eyelid ptosis:

• Mechanical ptosis is when the eyelid is dragged down by extra skin or a tissue mass, it develops 
• Aponeurotic ptosis occurs when the levator muscle of the eyelids stretches. This is commonly caused by age, however, it can also be caused by frequent eye rubbing or eyelid tugging.
• Neurogenic ptosis is caused by a malfunction in the neural pathways that govern eyelid muscle movement. Horner syndrome, third nerve palsy, and myasthenia gravis are examples of these issues.
• Traumatic ptosis occurs when an injury or trauma to the eyelid affects the levator muscle.

The grades are Mild 2 mm, Moderate 3 mm Severe 4 mm or more drooping of the eyelid depending on the amount of Ptosis present. 

Cosmetic ptosis surgery to correct uneven eyelids is known as blepharoplasty

During blepharoplasty, the surgeon creates an incision within the natural crease on the lid and removes superfluous skin. Surgical scars are often hidden between the natural folds or wrinkles of the eyes, or inside the eyelid. The surgeon may also remove muscle and rearrange fat during the procedure.

What’s a Canthoplasty? 

Canthoplasty is a reconstructive surgical procedure that tightens the muscles or ligaments that support the outer corners of the eye (the canthus) This type of ptosis surgery is used to correct drooping or sagging eyes. The goal is to cut out part of the lower canthal tendon and then reposition it.

What makes a Canthoplasty different from a Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty removes excess skin, muscle, and possibly fat from the lower or upper eyelid to make the eye appear younger, but it does not change the shape or size of the eye. In other words, a blepharoplasty removes “baggage.” 

 

Canthoplasty surgery is not to be confused with lower lid blepharoplasty, which is another type of eyelid surgery.

A canthoplasty, on the other hand, is a plastic surgery procedure that lifts the eye’s lateral canthus, reshapes the eye to a more almond shape, and enlarges the eye-opening. As a result, the eye appears brighter, bigger, and more awake.

 

Why is either one of these procedures done?

• Upper eyelids that are baggy or droopy
• Excess upper eyelid skin obstructs your peripheral vision
• Skin excess on the lower eyelids
• Bags beneath your eyes

Are there any risks in getting canthoplasty or blepharoplasty for droopy eyelids?

You may experience dry eyes, excess tearing, and blurred vision after either surgery. Swelling and bruising are common during the first few weeks post-op and this usually resolves within two to three weeks. Your surgeon will review all possible risks and complications in detail during your pre-operative consultation.

How long is the recovery period for eyelid surgery for a droopy eyelid?

Recovery after either surgery typically takes from two to three weeks. Most patients experience swelling and bruising that decrease to a great extent over the first two weeks. The final results will become apparent after a few months.

Can I just get an eyelid lift for cosmetic reasons?

Yes, either procedure can be used to improve the patient’s appearance.

When it comes to correcting the appearance or function of your eyelids and the structures around your eyes, you need to find the most qualified surgeon available. Our mission at VIDA Wellness and Beauty is to create a pleasant experience for our patients, please call to request an appointment with Dr. Quiroz in our Tijuana office or for a virtual consultation to discuss your concerns about the appearance or function of your eyelids and learn what treatment is right for you.