Introduction
Canthoplasty is a popular eyelid surgery that can enhance the appearance of the eyes, creating a more awake and youthful look or achieving a specific aesthetic goal like the cat - eye look. In New York City, there are numerous plastic surgery hospitals and skilled doctors offering canthoplasty procedures. This article will comprehensively introduce these options, including information about the doctors, hospitals, and the procedure itself.
What is Canthoplasty?
Canthoplasty is an eyelid surgery that primarily focuses on the outer corner of the eye. Ideally, the inner corner of the eye is directly in line with the outer corner or even a few degrees higher. However, in a drooping eye, the outer corner of the eye is several degrees below the inner corner. Canthoplasty corrects this by lifting the outer corner of the eye. It can also be performed for cosmetic reasons, such as creating the trendy cat - eye look where the corner of the eye slants upward. For example, patients who are dissatisfied with the natural shape of their eyes or those experiencing age - related drooping can benefit from this procedure.
Benefits of Canthoplasty
- Youthful Appearance: By lifting the outer corner of the eye, canthoplasty can reduce the appearance of tired - looking eyes, making the patient look more awake and youthful. As people age, the skin around the eyes loses its elasticity, causing the outer corners to droop. Canthoplasty reverses this process, giving a more refreshed look.
- Cosmetic Enhancement: It can create a more desired eye shape, such as the popular cat - eye look. This is especially appealing to those who want to enhance their facial aesthetics and stand out with a unique eye shape.
- Improved Symmetry: In some cases, one eye may have a different shape or position compared to the other. Canthoplasty can help correct this asymmetry, resulting in a more balanced and harmonious facial appearance.
Best Canthoplasty Doctors in New York City
According to Healthgrades, there are 1093 doctors who perform canthoplasty and canthopexy in New York. Here are some of the highly - rated doctors:
| Doctor's Name | Rating (out of 5) | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Neil Nichols, MD | 4.40 | 114 E 27th St, New York, NY 10016 |
| Dr. I Rodgers, MD | 4.30 | 229 E 79th St, New York, NY 10075 |
| Dr. Paul Langer, MD | 4.50 | 90 Bergen St, Newark, NJ 07103 |
| Dr. Ana Alzaga Fernandez, MD | 5.00 | 212 East 69th Street Suite 5, New York, NY 10021 |
| Dr. Grace Sun, MD | 4.10 | 36 Worth Street, New York, NY 10013 |
| Dr. Ashley Brissette, MD | 4.90 | 1305 York Avenue 12th floor, New York, NY 10021 |
| Dr. Benjamin Chang, MD | 4.70 | 185 Madison Ave fl 2, New York, NY 10016 |
| Dr. Stuart Carter, MD | 4.90 | 1305 York Ave fl 11, New York, NY 10021 |
| Dr. James Kelly, MD | 5.00 | 160 E 56th st fl 9, New York, NY 10022 |
| Dr. Thierry Hufnagel, MD | 4.70 | 185 Madison Ave fl 2, New York, NY 10016 |
| Dr. Kira Segal, MD | 4.90 | 36 Worth street, New York, NY 10013 |
| Dr. Scott Walsman, MD | 4.60 | 355 Grand st, Jersey City, NJ 07302 |
Additionally, on RealSelf, there are also many canthoplasty doctors in New York. For instance, John Mesa, MD, a board - certified plastic surgeon with 14 years of experience and 678 reviews, is well - regarded. James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO, an oculoplastic surgeon with 25 years of experience and 274 reviews, also has a good reputation.
Plastic Surgery Hospitals in New York City Offering Canthoplasty
Columbia University's Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
As one of New York’s best hospitals and the world’s top medical centers, Columbia University's plastic surgery division has the experience that few other programs can match. Their mission is to use their many resources to deliver the highest quality care for anybody in need of a cosmetic or reconstructive procedure.
- Surgeons: The division has a team of highly - skilled board - certified surgeons. For example, Christine Rohde, MD, is a chief of the division. She is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of the full range of plastic reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, specializing in microsurgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, body contouring, cosmetic surgery, and breast, trauma, and cancer reconstruction. Jeffrey A. Ascherman, MD, has published over 75 scientific articles and chapters and has been included multiple times in Castle Connolly’s list of America’s top doctors and in New York magazine’s annual list of best doctors.
- Services: They offer a wide range of services, including cosmetic care such as ear and eyelid lifts, and reconstructive care for issues like breast reconstruction after breast cancer. Canthoplasty, as an eyelid - related procedure, is likely one of the options they provide.
- Contact: To get in touch with one of their plastic surgeons, call (212) 305 - 3103 or request an appointment online. They have multiple offices in New York, including locations in Washington Heights, Midtown, East Side, Westchester, and New Jersey.
Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgery practice is known for its experienced board - certified plastic surgeons. They understand patients' desires to improve their bodies for cosmetic or medical reasons and offer a full range of options in both aesthetic (cosmetic) and reconstructive (restorative) plastic surgery.
- Surgeons: Their surgeons are highly trained and many have undergone further specialized training. Being faculty members of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, they have the opportunity to train residents, which also ensures a high - level of care.
- Facility: The newly designed plastic surgery suite at the Mount Sinai Hospital campus, named the Derfner - Lieberman Family Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, provides a comfortable and private environment for patients. The consultation suites are equipped with advanced technology, including a 55 - inch touchscreen for patients to browse educational materials and for doctors to visualize anticipated results.
- Contact: Patients can consult with their plastic surgeons to determine if canthoplasty is the right procedure for them.
NewYork - Presbyterian Allen Hospital
The division of plastic surgery at NewYork - Presbyterian Allen Hospital offers a full range of reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery procedures.
- Services: Services include breast reductions, breast reconstruction, breast augmentation, facial aesthetic surgery, and abdominoplasty. While canthoplasty is not explicitly mentioned, as an eyelid - related cosmetic procedure, it may be part of their facial aesthetic surgery offerings.
- Physicians: All physicians at Allen Hospital are also on the staff of New York - Presbyterian / Columbia University Medical Center and are members of the Columbiadoctors faculty practice, ensuring high - quality care.
- Contact: Call 212 - 932 - 4000 for an appointment. The hospital is located at 5141 Broadway (at 220th street), New York, NY 10034.
Pre - surgery Considerations for Canthoplasty
Choosing the Right Doctor
It is crucial to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in canthoplasty. You can check the doctor's ratings, reviews from previous patients, and their before - and - after photos. For example, on platforms like Healthgrades and RealSelf, you can find a wealth of information about doctors, including their success rates and patient testimonials. A good doctor will also have in - depth knowledge of facial anatomy and the latest surgical techniques to ensure the best results.
Medical Evaluation
Before the surgery, a comprehensive medical evaluation is necessary. The doctor will review your medical history, including any pre - existing medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, dry eyes, glaucoma, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. These conditions may affect the safety and outcome of the canthoplasty procedure. For instance, patients with dry eyes may experience more discomfort during the recovery period, and the doctor may need to take extra precautions.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Canthoplasty can improve the appearance of your eyes, but it is important to have realistic expectations. The doctor will explain the potential results based on your facial structure and individual characteristics. The goal is to achieve a natural - looking enhancement, not a completely different look. You should discuss your desired outcome with the doctor during the consultation to ensure that you are on the same page.
The Canthoplasty Procedure
Surgical Technique
Canthoplasty may be performed in a minor procedures room with local anesthesia and numbing eye drops or in an accredited surgical facility. To lift a drooping eye corner, the doctor begins by making a small incision in the outer corner of the eyelid to expose the lower canthal tendon. Once the tendon is cut, the lower lid will be lifted into position and the incisions will be closed. The exact technique may vary depending on the patient's specific needs and the doctor's preference.
Procedure Time
The procedure usually takes about 1 - 2 hours to complete. However, this can be affected by factors such as the complexity of the case and whether other procedures are being performed simultaneously.
Post - surgery Recovery and Care
Immediate Post - op
After the surgery, patients should expect to have temporary bruising and swelling around their eyes for the first week. Some patients may also notice a change in their eyesight, but this should resolve on its own. Pain medication will be prescribed to alleviate any discomfort. Using cold compresses and keeping the head elevated when lying down can help reduce the swelling and bruising.
Aftercare Tips
To help the eyelid heal properly, patients should massage their eyelids in an upward direction for 3 - 5 minutes at least 3 times a day for the first 2 weeks after their surgery. This will help the lid maintain its position and prevent the skin from losing tone. Patients should also use glasses instead of contact lenses for the first few weeks after the procedure to avoid irritation.
Recovery Time
The average recovery time for canthoplasty is 1 - 2 weeks. Most patients are comfortable going out in public within ten days, and they can typically resume regular activities three weeks after the surgery. However, strenuous activities should be avoided for a longer period to ensure proper healing.
Cost of Canthoplasty
The average cost of canthoplasty ranges from $3,000 to $7,500. However, the actual cost can vary depending on several factors, such as the doctor's experience, the location of the clinic, and any additional procedures that may be performed. If the patient is having canthoplasty to correct a medical condition, such as an ectropion eyelid or chronic dry eyes, their health insurance may cover some of the cost of the surgery. Insurance will not cover a canthoplasty if it is being performed only for cosmetic reasons.
Comparing Canthoplasty with Other Eyelid Surgeries
Canthoplasty vs. Blepharoplasty
An upper or lower blepharoplasty removes the excess skin, fat, and tissue from the eyelid for a smoother look without wrinkles or sagging skin. On the other hand, a canthoplasty changes the shape of the eyes by cutting the cathal tendon and lifting the corner of the eye. In some cases, these two procedures may be combined to achieve more comprehensive results. For example, a patient with both excess eyelid skin and a drooping outer eye corner may benefit from both blepharoplasty and canthoplasty.
Conclusion
In 2025, New York City offers a wide range of options for canthoplasty procedures. With numerous experienced doctors and top - notch plastic surgery hospitals, patients have the opportunity to achieve their desired eye appearance. When considering canthoplasty, it is essential to do thorough research, choose a qualified doctor, and have realistic expectations. Remember to follow the pre - and post - surgery instructions carefully to ensure a successful outcome.
If you are interested in learning more about canthoplasty or scheduling a consultation, we encourage you to reach out to the hospitals and doctors mentioned in this article. Share this information with your friends and family who may also be considering eyelid surgery. Explore the world of plastic surgery in New York City and take the first step towards enhancing your beauty.
