Lateral Canthal Lines (Crow’s Feet)
Targeted care for fine lines radiating from the outer corners of the eyes during smiling and squinting, tailored to keep your smile warm and natural.
Anatomical Assessment & Clinical Approach
Lateral canthal lines, commonly known as crow’s feet, fan outward from the lateral corners of the eyes due to contraction of the circular orbicularis oculi muscle when smiling, laughing, or squinting in bright light.
Because the skin at the outer eye corner is thin and contains very few sebaceous glands, fine radiation lines often appear here earlier than anywhere else on the face.
At Mapp Aesthetics in Miranda and Warwick Farm, our clinicians carefully distinguish between upper/central orbicularis oculi fibres and lower zygomaticus (cheek smile) fibres so we soften crinkling at the outer eye without altering the warmth of your smile or causing under-eye puffiness.
Anatomical Structures Evaluated
- Lateral orbital fibres of the orbicularis oculi muscle
- Lateral brow tail (supporting lateral brow elevation)
- Periorbital skin elasticity and hydration
Common Patient Indications
- Fanning lines radiating from the outer corners of the eyes when smiling
- Fine crepey lines remaining around the outer eyes at rest
- Downward pulling of the outer tail of the eyebrow when squinting
What Happens During Your Appointment
01. Full-Smile vs Squint Differentiation
We examine your eyes during both a gentle squint and a Duchenne (full cheek) smile to ensure lower cheek elevator muscles are never compromised.
02. Superficial Intradermal Precision
Because the orbicularis oculi sits immediately beneath thin periorbital skin, care is performed superficially to minimise bruising.
Post-Visit Integration & Aftercare Guidelines
- Small blebs at the outer eye corner absorb within 15 to 20 minutes.
- Avoid rubbing the eyes, swimming goggles, or active retinoids around the eyes for 24 to 48 hours.
All cosmetic and skin procedures are elective and carry potential clinical risks and side effects, including bruising, swelling, asymmetry, and localized sensitivity. Individual outcomes vary depending on anatomy, skin biology, and medical history, and results cannot be guaranteed. A comprehensive in-person consultation is required prior to any procedure to assess suitability and obtain informed consent.
Pre- & Post-Care Timeline Guides for Lateral Canthal Lines (Crow’s Feet)
Related Clinical Journal Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Can treating crow’s feet change how my cheeks move when I smile?
Only if placed too low or too deep near the zygomaticus major muscle. Our clinicians stay strictly within the lateral orbital rim above the zygomatic arch so your natural cheek smile remains 100% genuine.