ABSTRACT
The lateral canthus is a delicate and complicated three-dimensional structure with
function relevant to the health of the ocular surface. Dysfunction of the lateral
canthus, due to aging changes or iatrogenic trauma, results in ocular morbidity ranging
from chronic irritation to tearing to recalcitrant keratopathy. From an aesthetic
standpoint, symmetric, normally positioned lateral canthi are cornerstones of youthful
periorbital appearance, disruption of which leads to cosmetically significant deformity
or asymmetry. Reconstruction of the lateral canthus is important in the rehabilitation
of the aging eyelid and an unfortunate necessity after failed lateral canthal surgery.
The common methods for improving or maintaining position, tone, and shape of the lower
eyelid and lateral canthus use tightening or shortening the lower eyelid horizontally,
keeping the canthal angle in an appropriate vertical level, and hugging the ocular
surface. Many techniques have been described for the reconstruction of the lateral
canthus in functional conditions or for aesthetic purposes. These methods have met
with varying success. In this article, we begin with a discussion of the anatomy and
physiology of the lateral canthus, followed by clinical examples of lateral canthal
abnormalities and underlying pathophysiologies. A review of surgical options for the
lateral canthus is presented with concluding remarks on postoperative complications.
KEYWORDS
Lateral canthus - canthopexy - canthoplasty - canthotomy - cantholysis
REFERENCES
goldberg@jsei.ucla.edu
