Canthoplasty in Seoul
Canthoplasty, known in Korean as 뒤트임, is a surgical procedure designed to widen the outer corner of the eye. Patients considering canthoplasty in Seoul often come from abroad specifically to consult with surgeons experienced in facial aesthetic procedures. This page explains what the surgery involves, who tends to benefit, and what recovery generally looks like, based on information provided by MOOi Plastic Surgery Clinic in Gangnam-gu, Seoul.
What Canthoplasty Is
Canthoplasty is a surgical technique that adjusts the outer corner of the eye, typically to create a slightly more elongated or open appearance to the eye shape. It differs from non-surgical treatments in that it involves incision and reshaping of the tissue near the lateral canthus. The procedure is often performed alongside other eyelid surgeries, though it can also be done on its own depending on a patient's anatomy and goals. Because eye shape, skin elasticity, and orbital structure vary widely between individuals, the specific technique and extent of adjustment are usually customized during consultation rather than applied as a single standard approach.
Who It Suits
People who feel their eyes appear rounder or shorter than they would like, or who want a subtle shift in the overall eye shape, sometimes consider this procedure. It may also be discussed by patients who have already had upper or lower eyelid surgery and want to further adjust the outer eye area. Suitability is not determined by age or gender alone; it depends on eyelid anatomy, skin quality, and realistic expectations about the degree of change possible. A consultation with a surgeon is the appropriate way to determine whether canthoplasty aligns with a patient's facial structure and goals.
Who Should Avoid It
Canthoplasty is not advisable for everyone. Patients with active eye infections, certain chronic eye conditions, unmanaged bleeding disorders, or uncontrolled systemic illness are generally not good candidates until those issues are addressed or resolved. Individuals with unrealistic expectations about achieving a dramatically different or permanent-looking eye shape should also reconsider, since results vary between patients and can be influenced by healing, skin characteristics, and surgical technique. Anyone currently pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications that affect clotting should disclose this during consultation, as these factors may affect timing or candidacy. A thorough medical history review during the consultation phase is essential before any decision is made.
How the Session Goes
At MOOi Plastic Surgery Clinic, the process typically begins with a consultation where the surgeon evaluates eye shape, skin laxity, and the patient's aesthetic goals. Photographs and physical examination usually guide the discussion about what changes are realistic. On the day of surgery, the procedure is generally performed under local anesthesia, sometimes with additional sedation depending on whether it is combined with other eyelid procedures. The surgery itself typically takes a limited amount of time, though exact duration depends on complexity and whether combined procedures are performed. Surgeons at this clinic include Hwang Sungoh, Head Surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty and eyelid procedures, and Park Yun Yong, Head Surgeon specializing in facial bone contouring and lifting. Both are listed as board-certified plastic surgeons who are fluent in English, which can be helpful for international patients navigating consultation and aftercare instructions.
Downtime and Recovery
Recovery from canthoplasty varies by individual, but swelling and bruising around the outer eye area are common in the initial days following surgery. Many patients find that visible swelling decreases substantially within the first one to two weeks, though subtle swelling and changes in sensation can continue for longer as tissues settle. Stitches, if used, are typically removed within the first week or so, following the surgeon's specific instructions. Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activity, rubbing the eyes, and wearing contact lenses for a period determined by the surgical team. Since healing timelines differ from person to person, the clinic will typically provide a personalized recovery guide and schedule follow-up visits to monitor progress.
Pricing
Specific pricing details for canthoplasty are not listed in the information provided by MOOi Plastic Surgery Clinic. Prospective patients should contact the clinic directly for a personalized quote, as costs can vary depending on technique, whether the procedure is combined with other treatments, and individual anatomical factors. Any quoted price may be subject to consultation fees and VAT, which can vary and should be confirmed directly with the clinic before scheduling surgery.
Safety
As with any surgical procedure, canthoplasty carries inherent risks, including infection, asymmetry, scarring, and unsatisfactory aesthetic outcome. Individual results differ, and no surgeon can guarantee a specific outcome or a permanent unchanging result over time, since eyelid tissue continues to age and change naturally. Choosing a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon and following pre- and post-operative instructions carefully are important steps in reducing potential complications. Patients traveling from abroad should also plan for adequate recovery time in Seoul before flying home, as air travel soon after eye surgery may not be advisable. Discussing any personal medical history, allergies, or previous eye surgeries with the surgeon during consultation is a necessary part of a safe surgical process.
Frequently asked questions
How long does canthoplasty surgery typically take?
The procedure duration varies depending on complexity and whether it is combined with other eyelid surgeries, so exact timing should be discussed during a personal consultation.
Will the results of canthoplasty look natural?
Outcomes depend on individual eye shape, skin elasticity, and surgical technique, and results differ from person to person, so a consultation is the best way to understand realistic expectations for your anatomy.
Is canthoplasty painful during recovery?
Most patients experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the days following surgery, which generally can be managed with guidance from the surgical team and typically improves over the first couple of weeks.
Can canthoplasty be combined with other eyelid procedures?
Yes, canthoplasty is often performed alongside other eyelid surgeries, though whether this is appropriate depends on individual anatomy and should be discussed with your surgeon during consultation.
How soon can international patients travel home after surgery?
Recovery timelines vary, and patients should plan to stay in Seoul long enough for initial healing and follow-up visits before considering air travel, as flying too soon after eye surgery may not be advisable.