Eye Lengthening Surgery

What is eye lengthening surgery?

Eye lengthening surgery, also known as lateral canthoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure performed to adjust the shape of the eyes by increasing their visible length from one corner to the other. This surgery is carried out at the outer corner of the eyelid margin.

This is an elective procedure, and its purpose is to change the appearance of the eyes. It is not a medically necessary surgery.

Why might someone consider this procedure?

In some individuals, including those of Asian descent and certain other ethnic groups, the outer portion of the upper eyelid may slant or droop downward, which can make the eyes appear shorter or less open.

Eye lengthening surgery may be considered by individuals who wish to:

Reduce the prominence of this fold or slant, and
Change the shape or perceived length of the eyes.

It is important to note that this surgery cannot guarantee a specific appearance, and individual results vary.

How is the procedure performed?

The surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia with light sedation.
Fine incisions are made at the outer corner of the eye.
Small skin flaps may be created, repositioned, and sutured to achieve the desired shape.
Excess skin, if present, may be removed during the procedure.
The entire procedure typically takes about one hour, though this may vary depending on the complexity of the surgery.

Recovery and aftercare

Swelling and bruising are common after surgery and usually last for around two weeks.
During this time, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities and follow all post-operative care instructions provided by their surgeon.
Sutures are generally removed about one week after surgery, at which point many people can return to work or light daily activities.
Full recovery and final results may take several weeks to months.

Will there be visible scarring?

In many cases, incisions are placed within the natural folds of the eye to minimise visible scarring.
However, some level of scarring is possible, and the extent depends on individual healing and surgical technique.
Dr Xu will discuss what to expect during your consultation.

Risks and possible complications

As with all surgical procedures, eye lengthening surgery carries certain risks. These may include:

Infection or bleeding
Scarring, which may vary between individuals
Asymmetry in the appearance of the eyes
Overcorrection or undercorrection, requiring potential revision surgery
Damage to surrounding structures
Changes to eyelid function or eye shape

Dr Xu will explain these risks in detail during a face-to-face consultation to help you make an informed decision.

Important considerations

This procedure is cosmetic and elective. It does not address vision problems or medical eye conditions.
Under the Medical Board of Australia guidelines, there is a mandatory cooling-off period of at least 7 days before proceeding with cosmetic surgery for adults.
Patients under the age of 18 require a psychological evaluation before undergoing any cosmetic surgical procedure.
Results vary between individuals, and no specific outcome can be guaranteed.