What is cat eye surgery?
Cat eye surgery, also called fox eye surgery or canthoplasty, is an operation on the outer corner of the eye, known as the lateral canthus. This is where the upper and lower eyelids meet. A small tendon holds the corner in place, and its position has a big effect on the overall shape of the eye.
During the procedure the surgeon tightens, lifts and reattaches this tendon at a slightly higher point. The outer corner tilts gently upwards, and the eye appears longer and more almond-shaped. The result is often described as a lifted, fresher look.
Who is cat eye surgery suitable for?
The operation suits people who would like to change the shape of their eyes rather than simply remove extra eyelid skin. You may be a good candidate if:
- You would like a more almond-shaped or upswept eye
- The outer corners of your eyes turn down or look tired
- Your lower eyelid is loose or slightly drooping
- You are in good general health and fit for general anaesthesia
- You have no medical condition that slows healing or makes surgery riskier
Many patients who choose canthoplasty for cosmetic reasons are under 40, but age alone does not decide suitability. If you have dry eye disease, previous eye surgery or a thyroid eye condition, the surgeon will review this carefully. Canthoplasty is often combined with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) or a brow lift to reshape the whole eye area.
Surgical and non-surgical options
Canthoplasty
The tendon at the outer corner is released, shortened or repositioned and stitched to a new point. This gives the most noticeable and longest-lasting change.
Canthopexy
The tendon is tightened and anchored without being cut. It gives a more subtle lift and is often used to support the lower eyelid.
Thread lift
Dissolving threads placed near the outer brow pull the area upwards. It is not surgery on the eye corner, and the effect is temporary.
How the operation is done
Cat eye surgery usually takes 1 to 2 hours, longer if combined with other procedures.
Tests and planning
You come to the hospital the day before surgery for blood tests and an anaesthesia check. The surgeon examines your eyes, takes measurements and agrees the planned shape with you.
Anaesthesia and incision
You are given general anaesthesia. A small incision is made in the natural crease of the upper eyelid or at the outer corner of the eye, giving access to the tissues beneath.
Repositioning the tendon
The lateral canthal tendon is released, lifted to a higher position and fixed in place with strong stitches to support the eyelids in their new shape.
Closing
The skin is closed with fine, usually dissolvable stitches. Eye ointment is applied, and cold compresses are started in recovery.
Recovery timeline
- First 3 days
Swelling, bruising and a tight feeling around the eyes are normal. Vision may be blurry because of swelling and ointment. Pain is usually mild and controlled with simple painkillers.
- Week 1
Swelling begins to settle and dissolvable stitches start to break down, usually within a week. A check-up is done before you fly home.
- Weeks 2–4
Most bruising has gone and many people return to work and social life. The eye corner may still feel tight, which is expected.
- Months 2–6
The shape relaxes into a more natural position and the scars fade.
Aftercare
- Use cold compresses and keep your head raised for the first few days
- Use the eye drops and ointment exactly as prescribed
- Do not rub your eyes or pull on the eyelids
- Do not wear contact lenses for about one month
- Avoid eye make-up until your surgeon says it is safe
- Wear sunglasses outdoors and avoid dusty or smoky places
- Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen for two weeks before and after surgery unless approved, and stop smoking and alcohol at least two weeks beforehand
Before surgery you may also be asked to pause some supplements, such as multivitamins and vitamin K, and hormonal contraception. Always check every medicine and supplement with your coordinator first.
Risks and side effects
Every operation carries risks, which your surgeon will explain in full. With cat eye surgery they include:
- Bleeding or haematoma
- Infection
- Dry, irritated or watery eyes
- Drooping or pulling of the upper or lower eyelid
- Injury to the muscles around the lower eyelid
- Asymmetry between the two eyes, or a shape that looks too pulled
- Visible scarring
- Changes to eyesight, which are rare
- Reactions to anaesthesia
Results
You can see the new shape soon after surgery, although it may look slightly exaggerated while the area is swollen and tight. Over the following 3 to 6 months the corner settles into a softer, more natural almond shape. The change is long-lasting, but the skin and brows will continue to age over time.
Cat eye surgery in Turkey: your trip
Before you fly
Send us close-up photographs of your eyes and face along with your medical history. The surgeon reviews your case, and we send you a treatment plan and quote. Arrange to stop smoking and any medicines your surgeon advises against.
In Istanbul
A driver meets you at the airport. A translator accompanies you for tests, the consultation and discharge, and a companion can stay with you at no extra cost. You stay in hospital for 4 nights and have a check-up before you leave.
Back home
Your coordinator stays in touch on WhatsApp, follows your healing and passes any questions or photos to the surgical team.
What the Cat Eyes package includes
- VIP transfers from and to Istanbul Airport (IST)
- Fully equipped room in the hospital
- Translation services at the hospital and during follow-up
- Pre-operative testing
- Consultation with your doctors
- Post-operative care and follow-ups for a year
- General anaesthesia
- Special compression garments
- One companion included in the price
- Three meals a day for you and your companion
- Full hospital stay for 4 nights, 5 days
- Aftercare package with a full set of medications to take home
Cat Eyes FAQ
What is the difference between canthoplasty and a thread fox eye lift?
A thread lift uses dissolving threads placed under the skin near the brow to pull the outer eye area upwards. It is less invasive but temporary. Canthoplasty changes the tendon at the eye corner itself, so the result is longer lasting.
Is cat eye surgery permanent?
The change to the corner of the eye is designed to be long-lasting. Your face continues to age, though, so skin and brow position will still change slowly over the years.
Will the scars show?
Incisions are kept small and placed in the eyelid crease or the natural lines at the outer corner of the eye. They are usually pink at first and fade to faint lines over several months.
How long will my eyes be bruised?
Bruising and swelling are usually most obvious in the first week and largely settle within about two weeks. Light make-up can often be used once the stitches have healed, if your surgeon agrees.
Can I wear contact lenses after surgery?
You should not wear contact lenses for around one month after the operation. Bring your glasses with you to Istanbul.
Will my eyesight be affected?
Blurred vision for a few days is common because of swelling and eye ointment. Lasting changes to eyesight are rare, but any sudden worsening of vision or severe pain should be reported to the medical team straight away.
Can I combine cat eye surgery with other procedures?
Yes. It is often done together with upper or lower eyelid surgery, a brow lift or a facelift. Your surgeon will advise whether a combination is suitable for you.
