Background: In previous reports of lateral canthoplasty, the components of the inferior retinaculum were mostly secured to the lateral orbital rim at a level around the pupil or superior limbus. However, that level is not adjustable in young patients who want to lengthen the short palpebral fissure for cosmetic purposes. Moreover, the anchoring method based on the palpebral portion can also be inconvenient and ineffective. Thus, the authors report an effective fixation level of the lateral orbital rim to lengthen and widen the lateral palpebral fissure.
Methods: From June 2015 to August 2017, 202 women and 44 men underwent cosmetic lateral canthoplasty (mean age 28.4 ± 2.8 years old). The lower lid component of the lateral retinaculum was identified and selectively released through a small incision at the lateral commissure. Then, the released retinaculum was secured to the periosteum of the inner aspect of the lateral orbital wall. The fixation level corresponded to the most concave portion or immediately below the most concave point (1 to 2 mm below).
Results: Cosmetic lateral canthoplasty was successfully performed in all cases. No severe complications were observed. There were some minor complications. In most cases, the lateral palpebral fissure was naturally reshaped into a wider and brighter contour. Almost all of the patients were satisfied with the results of the treatment.
Conclusions: The anchoring procedure at the most concave portion of the lateral orbital rim, which corresponds to the level of the inferior edge of the limbus or medial epicanthus, consistently resulted in a brighter and wider shape of the lateral palpebral fissure. Fixation based on the bony portion, compared to palpebral portion, offers several advantages as follows: effective lengthening and widening the lateral palpebral fissure; ease of application; symmetry with consistent final results; and minimal occurrences of overcorrection and undercorrection.