Dr. Hootan Daneshmand
Cat Eye Surgery in Orange County & Bakersfield
Canthoplasty in Orange County & Bakersfield
In today’s world, cat eyes are all the rage. If you’re unaware of what this means, it essentially refers to a more elongated, enhanced almond-shaped eye. (Think Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and Taylor Swift.) The trend is popular among both older and younger generations. For those with naturally almond-shaped eyes, a cat eye can often be achieved with makeup using eyeliner or eyeshadow. However, those with naturally round or droopy eyes may not be able to achieve this look even with makeup. That is precisely why cat eye surgery is becoming a more and more popular procedure.
At Silhouette Plastic Surgery, we are dedicated to offering a complete range of Orange County cosmetic surgeries, including a cat eye lift, or canthoplasty. To discuss this procedure and develop a treatment plan for achieving the cat-like eyes you desire, contact Orange County plastic surgeon Dr. Daneshmand today at 949-359-8397.
What is cat eye surgery (canthoplasty)?
Cat eye surgery, also known as canthoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes the outer corner of the eye to create a more lifted, elongated, almond-shaped appearance. The procedure works by adjusting the lateral canthus (where the upper and lower eyelids meet) to subtly raise the outer corner of the eye, creating a more defined and youthful look.
During the procedure, a small incision is made near the outer corner of the eye, where the surgeon tightens or repositions the supporting tissues and secures them to achieve the desired lifted effect. The exact approach varies based on each patient’s anatomy and goals, but the overall purpose is to enhance eye shape and create a more balanced, lifted appearance.
Canthoplasty vs. Blepharoplasty
Canthoplasty and blepharoplasty are both cosmetic eye procedures, but they address different concerns. Canthoplasty focuses on reshaping and lifting the outer corner of the eye (lateral canthus) to create a more elongated, almond-shaped appearance or correct drooping. Blepharoplasty targets the upper or lower eyelids by removing excess skin and fat to reduce sagging, puffiness, and signs of aging. While canthoplasty is primarily used for eye shape enhancement, blepharoplasty is often performed to rejuvenate the eye area and, in some cases, improve vision affected by excess eyelid skin. Recovery and results vary depending on the procedure and individual patient needs.
How To Prepare For Canthoplasty Procedure?
Although canthoplasty is typically a quick outpatient procedure, proper preparation is important to support a safe surgery and smooth recovery. The procedure is usually performed with local anesthesia combined with IV sedation, while general anesthesia may be required if additional procedures are being performed.
Before surgery, your surgeon may recommend that you:
- Stop taking blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, if advised
- Avoid large meals the night before surgery
- Stop eating and drinking after midnight before the procedure
- Arrange for someone to drive you home afterward
- Avoid wearing makeup on the day of surgery
- Take only necessary medications the morning of surgery with small sips of water
Following these preparation guidelines helps reduce potential risks and ensures the best possible experience before and after the procedure.
How Soon After a Blepharoplasty Can You Have a Canthoplasty?
Blepharoplasty and canthoplasty are often performed together to enhance the overall appearance of the eyes and create a more lifted, defined “cat eye” effect. Combining these procedures can provide more noticeable results by addressing both eyelid concerns and the shape of the outer eye. However, if the procedures are performed separately, patients must allow adequate time for healing before undergoing an additional surgery. A surgeon will determine the appropriate timing based on the patient’s recovery and individual needs.
How long is recovery?
Recovery after canthoplasty is typically most noticeable during the first few days, when patients may experience swelling, bruising, discomfort, and mild irritation around the eyes. These effects are temporary and can be managed with cold compresses, prescribed medication, and adequate rest. Patients should avoid strenuous activities during the initial healing period while allowing the body time to recover.
Most patients can return to normal daily activities within 7–10 days, with significant improvement in swelling and bruising by around two weeks. Final results are typically visible after about six weeks once the tissues have fully healed. Temporary blurry vision, bandages, or mild discomfort may occur during recovery. If combining canthoplasty with other facial procedures, patients should wait until they are fully healed before undergoing additional treatments, often around two months or as recommended by their surgeon.
What are potential complications?
Like any surgical procedure, cat eye lift surgery (canthoplasty) carries potential risks and complications. While these issues are uncommon, especially when performed by an experienced surgeon, patients should be aware of possible outcomes, including:
- Infection
- Bleeding or hemorrhage
- Eyelid muscle damage, which may cause drooping
- Double vision due to lower eyelid muscle injury
- Difficulty fully closing the eyes if too much skin is removed
- Lower eyelid pulling away from the eye due to swelling or healing changes
- Visible scarring
- Eyelid asymmetry
- Eye or vision complications
- Bruising around the eye or eyelid area
Your surgeon will discuss these risks during your consultation and provide instructions to help support a safe recovery and optimal results.
How long does a Cathroplasty last?
Canthoplasty is considered a long-lasting eye-lifting procedure, with many patients enjoying results for 10 years or more. However, the procedure cannot completely stop the natural aging process, and the longevity of results can vary between individuals.
Factors that may affect how long results last include: the aging process and changes in skin elasticity, genetics, lifestyle choices and diet, smoking habits, sun exposure, the severity of the original concerns, and the surgical technique used.
While canthoplasty typically provides more permanent results compared to non-surgical treatments, it is not considered a lifetime procedure, as natural aging will continue over time.
Am I a good candidate for Canthoplasty?
Canthoplasty can be performed on patients of various ages and genders, as long as they are healthy and have realistic expectations for the procedure. While the trend has become especially popular among younger adults, particularly those in their 20s and 30s, the procedure can be suitable for anyone seeking a more lifted, elongated eye appearance. The almond-shaped “cat eye” look is considered a versatile aesthetic goal that appeals to a wide range of patients.
As with any cosmetic surgery, candidacy depends on individual factors, including overall health, eye anatomy, and personal goals. A consultation with a qualified surgeon can help determine whether canthoplasty is the right option based on your specific needs and desired results.
How to achieve Cathroplasty without having surgery?
For those who want a more lifted, almond-shaped eye appearance without surgery, makeup techniques can help create the illusion of a cat eye. While makeup cannot permanently change the shape of the eyes, it can enhance the outer corners and create a more elongated, lifted effect.
To achieve this look:
- Prep the eye area: Apply concealer or eyeshadow primer to create a smooth base and blend it slightly upward at the outer corners for a lifted effect.
- Apply eyeshadow: Use a light shade across the eyelid, then add a darker shade to the outer corner, blending upward and outward to create a winged shape.
- Use eyeliner: Draw a thin wing extending upward toward the end of the brow to elongate the eye. Keeping eyeliner close to the lash line helps avoid making the eyes appear rounder.
- Add mascara or false lashes: Focus mascara on the outer lashes, or apply half-strip lashes to the outer corners to naturally lift the appearance of the eyes.
These techniques can work well for people with naturally almond-shaped eyes, but those with more rounded or drooping eyes may not achieve the same effect through makeup alone. For a more permanent change in eye shape, canthoplasty may be considered.
Cat Eye Plastic Surgery
If you’re insecure about your round or downturned eye shape, consider a cat eye lift surgery with Silhouette Plastic Surgery Institute. Dr. Daneshmand has years of experience in performing almost all cosmetic procedures, especially cosmetic eyelid surgery. Our goal at Silhouette is to give our patients a confidence boost that will last a lifetime. If we can possibly do that for you through a canthoplasty surgery, then call us today at 949-359-8397.