Treatments

What is Cat Eye Surgery (Canthoplasty)?

Cat Eye Surgery (Canthoplasty) is one of the most popular eye shaping procedures in the aesthetic world in recent years. This procedure aims to create a more attractive, youthful, and almond-shaped eye appearance by slightly lifting the outer corner of the eyes upward. Known in medicine as the canthoplasty procedure, this operation can be performed not only for cosmetic purposes but also for certain functional purposes. For example, it can improve both aesthetics and vision quality in people with drooping eyelids or structural problems.

Often referred to as almond eye surgery, this method is particularly popular among women. Many people, from celebrities to social media influencers, choose this surgery to achieve a more defined and exotic look in their eyes. When performed by the right surgeon using modern techniques, cat eye surgery offers natural-looking and long-lasting results. For this reason, it has become the first choice in eye aesthetics for many people interested in facial aesthetics today.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for cat eye surgery (canthoplasty), which is why a detailed cat eye surgery consultation is the first and most important step. During this session, the surgeon evaluates the patient’s eye anatomy, skin elasticity, and overall health to determine suitability.

Typical cat eye surgery candidate criteria include being in good general health, having realistic expectations, and showing no serious eye conditions such as chronic dryness or uncontrolled infections. Age is also a factor; while the procedure is popular among younger patients for purely cosmetic reasons, older individuals often seek it to correct sagging eyelids or drooping outer corners.

Patients who want a permanent alternative to makeup techniques such as eyeliner flicks or temporary thread lifts often find cat eye surgery to be the best solution. Ultimately, the right candidate is someone who desires sharper, almond-shaped eyes and is willing to follow pre- and post-operative care instructions for safe and long-lasting results.

How the Procedure is Performed

The journey of cat eye surgery (canthoplasty) begins with a thorough cat eye surgery consultation, where the surgeon analyzes the patient’s unique eye structure, skin quality, and overall facial balance. This step ensures the procedure is tailored to achieve natural-looking results that complement the patient’s appearance.

Consultation Process

During the consultation, the surgeon discusses the patient’s expectations and explains the details of the canthoplasty procedure. This includes implanting subtle changes to the outer eye corner, which creates the lifted, almond-shaped effect. Patients are also informed about the potential risks, recovery period, and what to realistically expect after the surgery.

Surgery Steps

On the day of surgery, patients are usually placed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case. Small, precise incisions are made near the outer corners of the eyes, where the lower and upper eyelids meet. Through these incisions, the surgeon tightens and repositions the tendons to achieve the signature “cat eye” effect. While cat eye surgery scars are inevitable, they are typically well-hidden in the natural crease of the eyelids and fade significantly over time. With advanced techniques, the procedure is safe, efficient, and designed to deliver long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing results.

Recovery and Aftercare

The cat eye surgery recovery phase is an essential part of achieving the best possible outcome. In the first few days, patients may experience mild swelling, bruising, or tightness around the eyes. These side effects are temporary and usually subside within one to two weeks. Cold compresses and prescribed medication can help manage discomfort, while keeping the head elevated during sleep reduces swelling.

During recovery, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and rubbing their eyes. Stitches, if used, are typically removed within a week, and most people can return to work or daily routines in about 7 to 10 days. However, full recovery may take several weeks, during which the eyes gradually settle into their new shape.

Proper aftercare is crucial for long-lasting outcomes. Regular check-ups allow the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns early. Following all post-operative guidelines ensures that the canthoplasty procedure delivers safe and satisfying results. Over the long term, patients enjoy enhanced eye definition and a rejuvenated facial appearance. With careful care, the final long-term results of cat eye surgery are natural-looking, stable, and confidence-boosting.

Risks and Complications

Like any cosmetic operation, the canthoplasty procedure carries certain risks that patients should carefully consider before making a decision. While modern techniques and experienced surgeons greatly reduce the chances of problems, it is still important to understand potential outcomes.

Common cat eye surgery risks and complications include swelling, infection, asymmetry between the eyes, and temporary difficulty in closing the eyelids completely. In rare cases, scarring or overcorrection can occur, leading to an unnatural appearance that may require revision surgery. Dryness or irritation of the eyes is also possible during the initial recovery phase.

Most of these risks can be minimized by choosing a qualified surgeon, following pre- and post-operative instructions, and attending all scheduled follow-up appointments. When performed by skilled hands, cat eye surgery is generally safe and delivers predictable results, but transparency about risks is essential for realistic expectations.

Benefits and Aesthetic Results

One of the main reasons patients choose cat eye surgery (canthoplasty) is the dramatic improvement in eye shape and overall facial harmony. By subtly lifting the outer corners of the eyes, the procedure creates a youthful, elongated look that many associate with beauty and elegance. The transformation can be clearly seen in cat eye surgery before and after comparisons, where patients often notice a more alert, exotic, and refreshed appearance.

Beyond aesthetics, some patients experience functional benefits such as correction of sagging eyelids or improved eyelid support. The results are long-lasting and, with proper care, can remain stable for many years.

Most importantly, modern techniques allow for natural-looking cat eye results rather than an artificial or exaggerated appearance. When performed by a skilled surgeon, the change enhances a patient’s natural features rather than overpowering them, helping individuals feel more confident and satisfied with their lo

Cost of Cat Eye Surgery

The cat eye surgery cost can vary widely depending on several factors such as the country, the surgeon’s experience, and the clinic’s facilities. In the United States or Western Europe, prices are often higher due to medical expenses and insurance systems, while in destinations like Turkey the same canthoplasty procedure can be performed at more affordable rates without sacrificing quality.

Typically, the cost includes the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, operating room expenses, and post-operative care. However, some clinics may offer packages that also cover accommodation, transfers, and follow-up visits, especially in countries with strong medical tourism industries.

During a cat eye surgery consultation, patients should ask for a detailed breakdown of what is included in the price. It is important not to base the decision solely on cost, but also to consider the surgeon’s expertise, safety standards, and patient reviews. This ensures that the investment leads to safe surgery and satisfying, long-lasting results.

Why Choose Cat Eye Surgery in Turkey?

In recent years, Turkey has become one of the most popular destinations for cat eye surgery in Turkey, thanks to its highly skilled surgeons, modern hospitals, and competitive pricing. Cities like Istanbul and cat eye surgery in İstanbul attract international patients who want to combine high-quality medical care with a relaxing travel experience. Clinics often provide all-inclusive packages that cover surgery, accommodation, transfers, and aftercare, making the process smooth and stress-free. Patients not only benefit from advanced surgical techniques but also enjoy significant cost savings compared to other countries, without compromising on safety or results.

FAQs About Cat Eye Surgery