Cat Eye
Cat Eye Surgery: The Popular Procedure for Almond-Shaped Eyes
Cat eye surgery, also known as fox eye lift or canthoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to create an elongated, almond-shaped eye appearance, mimicking the natural structure of a cat’s eye. This trend, popularized by celebrities and social media influencers, aims to give the eyes a more lifted and exotic look. While there are non-surgical methods to achieve this effect temporarily (such as makeup or thread lifts), surgery offers a more permanent solution.
In this article, we’ll explore what cat eye surgery is, how it’s performed, who is a good candidate, and the potential risks and recovery process.
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Before Surgery
After Surgery
What is Cat Eye Surgery?
Cat eye surgery, or canthoplasty, involves repositioning the outer corner of the eyes (the canthus) to create a more upturned, elongated eye shape. This surgery alters the canthal angle, making the eyes appear more lifted and slanted, which is considered attractive by many people seeking a more exotic or youthful appearance.
While canthoplasty is the most common surgical approach for achieving a cat eye look, it is sometimes combined with other procedures like blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) or brow lifts to achieve the desired aesthetic result.
How is Cat Eye Surgery Performed?
Cat eye surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation, though general anesthesia may be used in some cases. The exact surgical technique varies depending on the patient’s goals and the surgeon’s approach, but the procedure generally follows these steps:
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient’s comfort during the procedure.
- Incisions: Small incisions are made at the outer corner of the eyes, near the canthus (the outer edge where the upper and lower eyelids meet).
- Canthus Repositioning: The surgeon carefully repositions the lateral canthus, lifting and tightening the outer corner of the eyes to achieve the desired slant. In some cases, excess skin or tissue may be removed to create a more defined look.
- Closing the Incisions: Once the canthal angle has been adjusted, the incisions are closed with fine sutures. The incisions are typically placed in discreet areas, making any resulting scars minimally visible.
Who is a Good Candidate for Cat Eye Surgery?
Cat eye surgery is suitable for individuals who are looking to enhance the shape of their eyes, specifically those who want a more lifted and elongated eye appearance. Ideal candidates include:
- People seeking a more exotic or youthful eye shape: Those who want to achieve the almond-shaped, slanted eyes popularized by celebrities and influencers.
- Healthy individuals: Candidates should be in good overall health, free from medical conditions that could impair healing, such as diabetes or blood clotting disorders.
- Non-smokers: Smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications, so patients are advised to stop smoking before and after surgery.
- Realistic expectations: It’s important for candidates to understand the limitations of the surgery and have realistic expectations about the results.
Benefits of Cat Eye Surgery
Cat eye surgery offers several aesthetic benefits, including:
- More youthful, lifted eyes: The procedure creates a more lifted, rejuvenated appearance around the eyes, often making the patient look more youthful and alert.
- Enhanced facial symmetry: By lifting and elongating the eyes, cat eye surgery can enhance the overall balance and harmony of the face.
- Permanent results: Unlike non-surgical methods such as thread lifts or makeup, the results of cat eye surgery are long-lasting and often permanent.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with cat eye surgery. These include:
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision sites, but this can be minimized by following post-operative care instructions.
- Asymmetry: In some cases, the results may be uneven, which may require revision surgery to correct.
- Scarring: While the incisions are typically hidden in natural folds or creases, visible scarring may occur in some cases.
- Dry eyes or irritation: Some patients may experience temporary dry eyes, irritation, or discomfort following the procedure.
- Overcorrection: In rare cases, the eyes may appear overly slanted or unnatural if too much correction is made, necessitating further adjustments.
Conclusion
Cat eye surgery is a popular cosmetic procedure for individuals looking to enhance the shape and position of their eyes, creating a more exotic, almond-shaped appearance. Whether for cosmetic reasons or to achieve a more youthful look, the surgery offers long-lasting results for the right candidates. However, as with any surgical procedure, it’s important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and ensure that cat eye surgery is the right option for you. Non-surgical alternatives like thread lifts or injectables can also provide temporary results for those who prefer a less invasive approach
