What is canthal tilt?

Canthal tilt refers to the angle created by the imaginary line drawn between the inner and outer corners (canthi) of the eyes. This angle can have a significant impact on facial aesthetics and perception. There are generally two types of canthal tilt:

1. Positive Canthal Tilt: This occurs when the outer corner of the eye is higher than the inner corner. It is often considered more aesthetically pleasing and associated with a youthful and attractive appearance. A positive tilt can make the eyes appear more almond-shaped and can give the impression of a more alert, cheerful, and confident look.

2. Negative Canthal Tilt: This is when the outer corner of the eye is lower than the inner corner. It can sometimes give the appearance of tiredness or sadness. A negative tilt is less commonly desired from an aesthetic standpoint.

3. Neutral Canthal Tilt: In this case, the inner and outer corners of the eyes are approximately level with each other. This creates no significant tilt and often appears as a balance between the positive and negative tilts.

The perception of canthal tilt can vary based on cultural preferences, and its importance may differ from person to person. It can also be influenced by factors such as aging, genetic predisposition, and surgical or cosmetic procedures designed to alter the tilt for aesthetic purposes. It’s noteworthy that while canthal tilt contributes to the perception of attractiveness, overall facial harmony and individual features also play essential roles.