Cosmetic Lengthening and Repositioning of the Lateral Canthal Angle with Skin-Muscle Redraping Method

Jang, Hyun; Chung, Yoon Jae; Kang, Dong Hee; Oh, Sang Ah

Abstract

The size and shape of palpebral fissures are the most important features to determine the eye shape. There have been many methods reported for the lateral canthal lengthening. The authors performed lengthening of lateral canthal angle using skin-muscle redraping method to lengthen the palpebral fissure and lower the upturned lateral canthus. From December 2008 to Aug 2009, 27 patients underwent lengthening of lateral canthal angle using skin-muscle redraping. Twelve cases had lateral canthal lengthening with double eyelid operation or blepharoplasty. and combination with rhinoplasty, epicanthoplasty, and the other 9 cases was performed. There were 2 males and 25 females with ages ranging from 19 to 45 years. The procedure was composed of inferolateral canthotomy, tarsal-periosteal canthopexy, subciliary incision, skin-muscle flap elevation that connecting with canthotomy space and skin-conjunctival repair. After operation, the length and tilt of the palpebral fissures were improved remarkably, and most patients were satisfied. There were 3 patients who presented with complication; 2 cases of chemosis and 1 case of overcorrection. However, no major complication was noted. This method can be effective in lengthening the palpebral fissure and lowering upturned lateral canthal angle without significant recurrence and scar.