© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
Canthoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at reconstructing the canthus, which is the anatomical junction where the upper and lower eyelids meet. This procedure can involve either the medial canthus, located at the inner corner of the eye, or the lateral canthus, found at the outer corner. The medial canthus is significant as it houses the medial canthal ligament, which connects to the orbit and plays a crucial role in the structural integrity of the eyelids and the lacrimal drainage system. Conversely, the lateral canthus comprises several key structures, including the lateral canthal tendon, Lockwood's ligament, and the cheek ligaments associated with the lateral rectus muscle, as well as the lateral horn of the levator aponeurosis. The choice of surgical technique for canthoplasty is determined by the specific canthus affected and the nature of the injury sustained. For instance, injuries to the medial canthus may necessitate the use of a full-thickness skin graft or various types of flaps, such as an upper eyelid transposition flap or a rotation flap from the glabella. In cases where the lateral canthus is involved, a cheek rotation flap is typically employed. The procedure is intricate, requiring careful planning and execution to ensure that the reconstructed canthus not only restores the eyelid's appearance but also maintains its functional integrity, allowing for proper eyelid closure and support of the ocular globe.
© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
Get instant expert-level answers from CasePilot, our coding assistant.
Create a free account to unlock this content
Create a free account to unlock this content
Create a free account to unlock this content
Create a free account to unlock this content
Create a free account to unlock this content
Create a free account to unlock this content
Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.