Canthorrhaphy

/kænˈθɔrəfi/ noun

Definition

A surgical procedure that stitches or tightens the corner of the eyelid, often to prevent eye drying or fix eyelid position.

Etymology

From Greek 'kanthos' (corner of eye) and 'rhaphy' (stitching/suturing). This medical term was developed in the 18th-19th centuries as eye surgeries became more precise, combining two Greek roots that surgeons needed to describe this specific operation.

Kelly Says

This procedure is actually a lifesaver for people who can't close their eyes fully because of nerve damage or other conditions—surgeons literally stitch the eyelid corner tighter to protect the eye! It's one of those wonderfully specific medical terms that tells you exactly what the surgery does.

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