Canthus

The canthus refers to the angle formed by the meeting of the upper and lower eyelids. Specifically, it describes both the inner (medial) and outer (lateral) corners of the eye. The medial canthus, closer to the nose, features the lacrimal caruncle, a small, fleshy protuberance. The lateral canthus, positioned furthest from the nose, tends to be more acute and is crucial for the proper drainage of tears. This anatomical landmark plays a role in facial aesthetics and is often a reference point in ophthalmology and reconstructive surgery. Variations in canthal angle can contribute to the overall appearance of the eyes and face.

Canthus meaning with examples

• The ophthalmologist carefully examined the patient's lateral canthus, noting a slight drooping that might affect tear drainage. The delicate sutures meticulously closed the incision near the medial canthus following reconstructive surgery. Any injury to the canthus can potentially disrupt tear production or cause aesthetic changes.
• In the diagram of the eye, the arrows pointed precisely to the medial and lateral canthus. The artist exaggerated the lateral canthus to give the character a more sly appearance. The canthus is often used as a landmark during various cosmetic procedures around the eyes.
• The swelling was most pronounced at the medial canthus, indicating a potential infection. The surgeon aimed for symmetry when reconstructing the canthus after the accident. A drooping canthus can give the face a tired or sad appearance; which is sometimes corrected with medical procedures.
• The optometrist checked the alignment of the lateral canthus to ensure proper vision. The new makeup technique focused on highlighting the lateral canthus to create a more defined look. The canthus angle can vary significantly among different ethnic groups.
• The contact lens irritated her medial canthus, making her eyes water. Proper hygiene is crucial to avoid infections around the canthus. The canthus’ shape contributes significantly to facial expressions and emotions during photography and art.