What Are the Options of Surgical and Invasive Treatments for Under-Eye Bags?

Part-2--- Surgical and Invasive Treatments for Under-eye Bags

Although the use of non-invasive treatments may be more affordable, there are various methods that are more long-term and require medical attention. In 2016, eyelid surgery/blepharoplasty surgery was the fourth most common type of plastic surgery, and in 2017, soft tissue filler was the second most commonly performed non-invasive procedure in the US. Chicago Institute of Plastic Surgery offers advanced treatments for plastic surgery in Chicago.

Here are some most common invasive options you can opt for treating your under eye bags and puffiness.

Hyaluronic Fillers

Hyaluronic acid fillers are widely used in many procedures to reduce signs of aging and restore facial volume, and are a common method for reducing the appearance of under-eye bags. Although the action of hyaluronic acid may seem a little intense, it is actually a natural substance produced in the body and is essential for moisturizing and lubricating the joints.

Hyaluronic acid is found in all body tissues and fluids, is extremely important for skin hydration, and has the ability to bind and retain water molecules, which can maintain skin elasticity.    

As we age, hyaluronic acid levels begin to decline in the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis), which typically produces HA more slowly, while the inner layer (the dermis) continues to produce hyaluronic acid. Premature skin aging is partly due to UV exposure, and the reintroduction of hyaluronic acid to the outer layers of the skin can temporarily alleviate this damage.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal Fillers Treatments are widely available and can help address under eye volume deficits by directly filling in the ligaments around the eyes and creating a less sunken look. Their main function is to reduce the appearance of under-eye shadows and contour irregularities.

Choosing fillers is an easy way to reduce eye bags as it is a simple procedure that can be reversed if needed. With the introduction of enzymes that break down hyaluronic acid (hyaluronidase), fillers can be canceled if they give undesirable results. A chemical peel is a superficial repair procedure that can help improve the collagen in the skin as well as reduce the amount of melanin.

This treatment specifically targets the production of melanin, but affects both skin discoloration as well as wrinkles and uneven skin texture.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels can be administered at different concentrations, which can lead to different results. Exfoliating agents specifically alter the melanin content, and deeper peels can penetrate deeper into the skin to address melanin problems below the surface. Peeling can be used alone or in combination with bleaching products to reduce the appearance of dark circles.

Because bleaching agents can be used, and chemical peels tend to target uneven pigmentation, people with darker skin tones should take extra precautions as this can cause more discoloration complications. While eye bag treatments may allow chemical peels to focus on the eyes, people with darker complexions may opt for a peel that will extend to the entire face to avoid a harsh line between where the procedure is performed and unaffected skin.

However, many patients who opt for a chemical peel may experience a temporary unwanted side effect. After peeling, the affected skin may become inflamed and discolored over time (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation). Fortunately, this too can be cured.

Laser Resurfacing    

Another alternative to resurfacing can be laser resurfacing, a procedure that improves skin tension, collagen production, and the appearance of blood vessels under the eyes.

Essentially, laser resurfacing works by creating small lesions in the skin, resulting in new skin with less damage and more collagen production. Stimulates the process of skin regeneration on the face and under the eyes, which reduces skin discoloration and treats wrinkles. Laser resurfacing facial treatment in Chicago is usually done with one of two options: full ablative laser or fractional laser technology.

While fully ablative lasers can produce the best and most effective results, fractional laser resurfacing leaves new skin with a lower complication rate. Although both types of laser treatment are comparable and effective, fractional laser treatment requires less recovery time.

Surgical Blepharoplasty    

Depending on the underlying cause of under eye bags, some people may opt for a surgical procedure called blepharoplasty. Surgical blepharoplasty is performed to restore the function and aesthetic appearance of the eye and is performed by both an ophthalmologist and a plastic surgeon. Blepharoplasty is an outpatient procedure that involves the surgical removal of fat near or around the upper eyelids, which is then injected into the lower eyelids.

Excess skin is removed and the underlying muscles are smoothed out to eliminate the sagging that typically occurs with bags under the eyes. Finally, the supporting structures around the eyes are strengthened and the fat is moved to create a smooth under eye area. While chemical peels and laser therapy are most effective in treating discoloration and pigmentation problems, blepharoplasty is sometimes used to correct the shading effect caused by puffiness under the eyes.

However, this procedure is slightly more invasive than any alternative method. It is essentially a fat graft, in which the fat around the upper eye is moved into the empty space below it. This procedure is best for those candidates whose dark wallets are caused by gravity and age.

When the skin under the eyes begins to sag, the elasticity of the skin begins to deteriorate, which is what blepharoplasty is designed to correct in addition to the aesthetic fixation of bags under the eyes.

Due to the complications that can result from this procedure, this technique is a little more serious than laser resurfacing or chemical peels.

A pre-operative consultation can help in assessment if you could safely undergo a blepharoplasty, but that may also result in various complication which may include:

• Infection & bleeding
• Drooping / swelling
• Asymmetry or excessive scarring
• Loss of vision or double vision

For best results, blepharoplasty perhaps performed in combination with a chemical peel to further reduce the appearance of bags under the eyes. While chemical peels treatment in Chicago can have a direct effect on darker pigmentation, blepharoplasty can address sagging skin to reduce or eliminate bags under the eyes.

The Takeaway    

Bags under the eyes are more of a cosmetic problem than a serious illness. However, they may be enough to make you feel less confident and affect your quality of life. While hiding or treating bags under the eyes is not a panacea, it can help improve your overall emotional well-being.

Fortunately, they are easily treated or covered up with a range of aforementioned invasive or non-invasive methods. While we cannot avoid the physical effects of the aging process, there are ways to reduce the extent and speed at which they occur.

For eye bags in particular, some of the methods to consider include everything from using the right concealer to adding retinoids to your skincare routine or even opting for surgery. As always, do not hesitate to consult a doctor. Depending on the severity of your under-eye bags and how you feel, your doctor or board-certified plastic surgeon will tailor a solution to suit your comfort level. Just as every face is different, the results of each facelift performed can also vary.

Have a look at the previous Article:  Under Eye Bags & Puffiness? Now You Have Options!