Causes of under-eye bags

The primary cause of under-eye bags is aging. As we age, our skin naturally loses collagen and elasticity, which play a crucial role in keeping skin firm and smooth. Additionally, the fatty tissues under the eyes can become displaced, leading to fat bulging and eventual skin sagging.

Most people will encounter this issue eventually, as it is a common part of the aging process. However, certain factors can make under-eye bags more pronounced, severe, and appear earlier than anticipated.

What are the factors that speed up the occurrence of under-eye bags?

There can be both hereditary and environmental factors that might cause under-eye bags. There are:

• Genetics: Family history of early under-eye bags makes individuals more prone to get them earlier
• Water retention: Factors like salt intake, hormonal changes, or even sleeping position can lead to fluid buildup under the eyes.
• Lack of Sleep: Insufficient rest can exacerbate the appearance of bags under the eyes.
• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can make the skin look dull and accentuate the appearance of bags.
• Lifestyle Factors: Stress, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking can also contribute to dark circles and puffiness.

Is there a non-surgical way to reduce under-eye bags?

Let’s be honest, non-surgical ways might help you postpone the under-eye bags as good skin care and healthy diet improves skin elasticity and overall condition of the body. There will be no miracles, but preventive measures will surely postpone your need for the surgery in the future.

What are the ways to postpone the sign of aging under the eyes?

1. Proper hydration – dehydration makes skin losing its elasticity and look thin. Thin skin is more prone to wrinkles and bulging fat and dark circles are more visible when you are dehydrated.
2. Good sleep – lack of sleep is often associated with under eye bags and dark circles. When we sleep little our body is tired and its regenerative skill is weakened which has a direct impact on the skin condition.
3. Quitting smoking and alcohol – smoking and alcohol is toxic to your body, affects sleep quality and causes water retention. All of these will speed up your skin’s aging.
4. Cold eye compress – cold temperature encourages the blood flow under the eyes and soothes the tiredness.

Are under-eye creams effective?

Under-eye creams might improve skin condition giving proper nourishment and hydration. Whitening cream might reduce dark circles caused by hyperpigmentation. But don’t expect the miraculous effects advertised by the producers. It’s always good to maintain good skincare but don’t get yourself fooled by excessive expectations.

What are the surgical ways to reduce the under-eye bags?

Two of the most recommended and popular surgical methods to reduce under-eye bags are under-eye fat repositioning and lower blepharoplasty. While both techniques aim to improve the under-eye area, lower blepharoplasty is often considered to be more effective and long-lasting. So, what’s the difference between the two?

Under-eye Fat Repositioning

This procedure is advised for addressing the early signs of under-eye aging, particularly for mild eye bags and dark circles resulting from age-induced uneven fat distribution. The incision is carefully placed beneath the lower eyelid, making it completely invisible. Recovery is typically very fast, allowing patients to resume their daily activities quickly. The primary goal of the surgery is to reposition the displaced fat caused by aging back to its proper location. This results in the noticeable reduction of eyebags and dark circles, leading to a refreshed appearance. For more detailed information about the procedure, visit the dedicated site.

Who is it recommended to:

• Recommended for individuals without sagging tissue
• Specifically targets those with bulging or uneven fat under their eyes
• Typically advised for patients in their 20s or 30s
• Suitable for those with good skin elasticity
• Ideal for addressing early signs of under-eye aging without the need for excess skin removal

Pros and cons of under-eye fat repositioning

Pros:

• Reduced Under-Eye Bags: Effectively reduces the puffiness by redistributing fat.
• Reduced Wrinkles and Dark Circles: Leads to smoother skin and less shadowing.
• Quick Recovery: Patients can typically return to their daily activities relatively quickly compared to more invasive procedures.
• Minimal Scarring: Incisions are made in hidden locations, resulting in virtually no visible scarring.

Cons:

• Not Effective for Tissue Sagging: This procedure does not address issues related to sagging skin.
• Limited for Advanced Aging Signs: Not suitable for individuals with prominent aging signs, such severe under-eye bags or substantial skin excess.

Before & After of Under-eye Fat Repositioning

Lower Blepharoplasty

Lower blepharoplasty involves a two-step process: repositioning the fat and lifting the tissue to achieve optimal results. The incision is carefully placed along the lower eyelash line, ensuring minimal visibility. This procedure is particularly effective for solving advanced signs of aging and sagging tissue. As we age, the contour under the eyes often shifts from a youthful “U” shape to a more aged “V” shape. Lower blepharoplasty is the most effective method for restoring the youthful “U” shape in the under-eye area.

For a more comprehensive and lasting transformation, I sometimes combine lower blepharoplasty with a midface lift. This combination targets the entire area from the cheeks to the lower eyelids, providing a holistic, natural-looking effect. This approach helps to enhance both the midface and under-eye regions for a more youthful and refreshed appearance. For more detailed information about the procedure, visit the dedicated site.

Who is lower blepharoplasty recommended to:

• People with advanced signs of under-eye aging
• Those with sagging tissue under the eyes
• Individuals with pronounced under-eye bags
• Typically recommended for people in their 40s and older, although it can benefit younger patients with similar concerns based on individual assessments

Pros and cons of lower blepharoplasty

Pros:

• Effective for Advanced Signs of Aging: Addresses significant aging concerns, such as sagging tissue and deep wrinkles.
• Reduces Severe Under-Eye Bags: Provides good improvement for pronounced puffiness.
• Helps with Reducing Dark Circles: Can improve the appearance of dark circles by smoothing the under-eye area and reducing shadows.
• Long-Lasting Effect: Offers enduring results, helping maintain a youthful appearance for an extended period.

Cons:

• Longer Recovery Period: Compared to less invasive procedures, it requires more time for healing and for swelling and bruising to subside.
• Longer Duration of Surgery: Typically involves more time in surgery due to the complexity of addressing multiple aspects such as skin, fat, and muscle repositioning.
• Potential for Scarring: Although incisions are made discreetly, there is still a chance of visible scarring, depending on individual healing responses.

Before and after Lower Blepharoplasty

Importance of choosing the right way to address your under-eye bags

Addressing under-eye concerns effectively is important for achieving a satisfying and natural-looking result. It is crucial to recognize that every individual’s situation is unique, which requires a personalized surgical plan tailored specifically to each patient. This approach ensures that the particular needs and conditions are thoroughly considered.

During a one-on-one consultation, I conduct a detailed examination to assess the severity of aging and the condition of the delicate under-eye skin. This careful evaluation allows for the creation of a customized surgical plan that improves the aesthetic outcome and meets the different preferences and requirements of each patient.

Check what would be your recommendation for under-eye bags problem. Contact our consultants.