Canthoplasty is one of the most common eye plastic surgery methods. It aims to make the eyes look brighter and more energetic by adjusting the structure of the inner or outer canthus, improving the length of the palpebral fissure or the proportion of the eye shape. However, like all surgical operations, the recovery period after canthoplasty requires patients to be patient and follow the doctor's orders for meticulous care. The length of the recovery period and the quality of recovery not only depend on the choice of surgical procedure and the level of operation, but also are closely related to individual constitution, postoperative management and other factors. This article will systematically discuss the stage division, influencing factors, nursing points and potential risks of the recovery period after canthoplasty.
1. Stages and characteristics of canthoplasty recovery period
The recovery period of canthoplasty surgery can be roughly divided into three stages: early postoperative period (0-7 days), mid-term recovery period ( 8-30 days) and stable period (1-3 months after surgery) . Different stages have different physiological changes and care needs.
Early postoperative period (0-7 days)
There will be mild local bleeding, swelling and pain on the day of surgery . Most patients will begin to experience increased congestion and edema within 24 hours , especially in the inner canthus area.
①, 2. The 2nd to 3rd day is the peak period of swelling;
②、 3. Usually the stitches are removed on the 5th to 7th day after surgery , but some individuals may delay this time depending on their condition.
During this stage, the focus should be on preventing infection, pulling and applying cold compresses.
Mid-term recovery period (8-30 days)
After the stitches are removed, the swelling gradually subsides and the eye contour begins to become clear, but there may still be local tightness, itching or mild pigmentation .
①, 5. Scar tissue is in the early stages of proliferation and may appear reddish or slightly raised;
②, 6. The surgical area is more sensitive to light and external stimuli.
During this stage, you should avoid scratching and sun exposure, and pay attention to moisturizing and sun protection measures .
Stable period (1 to 3 months after surgery)
During this stage, the tissue gradually stabilizes, the surgical marks gradually fade, and the morphology becomes closer to expectations.
①, 8. There are large individual differences, and some people may still have slight scar changes 3 to 6 months after surgery;
②, 9. For people with scar-prone constitution, the stable period may be slightly extended.
At this time, you may consider starting scar revision treatments, such as silicone products or laser-assisted therapy (this should be done after professional evaluation).
2. Key factors affecting the length of the recovery period
Differences in surgical methods
Common canthoplasty procedures include medial canthoplasty, lateral canthoplasty, Z-plasty, W-plasty , etc. Different methods involve differences in tissue incision direction, suture tension and skin resection range, so the recovery period varies from person to person.
Individual constitution and skin type
Those with good skin elasticity and good blood circulation recover relatively quickly; however, patients with scar-prone constitutions, allergic constitutions or diabetes may have prolonged recovery after surgery and need to take special precautions against complications .
Postoperative care compliance
Whether you go for follow-up visits on time, whether you avoid rubbing your eyes, whether you use cold compresses and sun protection, and other care measures will directly affect the quality of recovery and the length of the cycle.
Surgical environment and surgeon skills
The operation is performed under sterile conditions and the surgeon's suturing technique is meticulous, which will effectively reduce the probability of infection and scar formation.
3. Postoperative care points and management suggestions
Cold compress and anti-swelling treatment
It is recommended to apply cold compress intermittently in the first 48 hours after surgery, 15 minutes each time, with an interval of 30 minutes. Avoid direct contact of ice packs with the skin to reduce bleeding and swelling in the surgical area.
Rational use of drugs and avoidance of infection
Use antibiotic eye drops or eye ointment as prescribed by the doctor to prevent infection in the surgical area. It is strictly forbidden to use skin care products or makeup products containing irritating ingredients to contact the wound after surgery.
Clean and dry maintenance
Keep the surgical area clean and dry. Do not get it wet or remove the dressing by yourself for 5 to 7 days after the operation. When washing your face, wipe it gently with a wet towel, avoiding the corners of the eyes.
Avoid rubbing and strong light stimulation
It is strictly forbidden to rub your eyes with your hands, avoid strenuous exercise and pressure on the eyes when sleeping; wear a sun hat or sunglasses when going out to prevent the influence of ultraviolet rays on scar pigmentation .
Work and rest schedule and diet adjustment
Get enough sleep and avoid staying up late; eat a diet mainly consisting of foods rich in vitamin C and protein , such as lean meat, eggs, citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, etc., which help tissue repair; avoid spicy, greasy and high-sugar foods.
4. Possible problems and treatment suggestions during the recovery period
Scar hyperplasia
If local scar thickening occurs 2 to 4 weeks after surgery, topical anti-scar gel or silicone dressing can be used for treatment under the guidance of a doctor to avoid scratching and irritation.
Asymmetric or unnaturally angled eyes
Slight asymmetry is normal during the recovery period, and the shape will gradually become natural after about 1 to 2 months . If there is still obvious asymmetry 3 months after surgery, it should be evaluated whether there is tissue adhesion or poor repair, and the possibility of secondary revision should be considered.
Dark pigmentation or scarring
Most of them will fade naturally within 3 to 6 months after surgery. It is recommended to use physical sunscreen products and medical sunscreen clothing to reduce exposure to ultraviolet rays.
Psychological anxiety and image maladjustment
Some people who seek beauty feel anxious during the recovery period due to swelling, scars or changes in eye shape. They need professional doctors’ explanations and psychological counseling to help them establish reasonable expectations and reduce psychological stress during the recovery period.
5. Importance of follow-up visits and long-term follow-up
Postoperative follow-up is not only to observe the wound healing, but also an important node for morphological restoration, functional maintenance, and complication prevention . It is recommended that patients seek follow-up at the following time nodes:
One week after surgery: assess suture removal and infection ;
One month after surgery: observe scar formation trend and eye symmetry ;
Three months after surgery: Comprehensively assess the recovery status and decide whether auxiliary treatment or re-intervention is needed.
Beauty Encyclopedia Tips:
Although canthoplasty is a routine cosmetic surgery project, the recovery process requires careful observation, scientific care, and professional guidance. The length of the recovery period is affected by many factors and there are obvious individual differences. Patients should maintain a calm attitude, standardize the nursing process, and maintain good communication with the attending physician during the recovery process. Scientific planning of recovery management will help achieve the expected goal of better postoperative results and a natural and coordinated appearance.