Say Goodbye to Under-Eye Bags with These Cosmetic Solutions
Left to its own devices, the delicate skin under your eyes is sometimes… uncooperative when you’re trying to keep a youthful, energetic appearance. As this skin naturally loses some firmness over time, gravity also pulls it down, and you may begin to see dreaded “bags” appear under your eyes. Add in telltale dark “circles” which also tend to appear when we’re tired, and it’s clear why this can be an area of concern for so many people.
If you have a problem with under-eye bags and feel ready for a more youthful, bright-eyed look, here are a few effective cosmetic solutions to consider:
Cosmetic Options for Correcting Under-Eye “Bags”
Lower Blepharoplasty for Deep Surgical Correction
For individuals with pronounced under-eye bags caused by fat pad prominence, drooping skin, or eyelid laxity, a lower blepharoplasty is often the most effective and lasting solution. This procedure involves making a small incision either just below the lash line or inside the lower eyelid. From there, the surgeon can reposition or remove excess fat, skin, or muscle, resulting in a smoother, firmer under-eye area.
Here at The Lucas Center, Dr. Lucas uses his expertise in facial anatomy to achieve a natural, refreshed appearance that complements each patient’s unique features. Learn more about his process for eyelid rejuvenation surgery and the steps in achieving brighter eyes here.
While the downtime and recovery for lower blepharoplasty is greater than for non-surgical treatments, it’s relatively minimal and yields longer-lasting results. Generally, you can likely resume light activities within a week, though strenuous activities should be avoided for approximately 2-3 weeks for a better recovery and results. Initial swelling and bruising is expected but gradually disappears over time.
Filler for Subtle Under-Eye Hollows
For those with mild hollowness under the eyes, a soft-tissue filler like JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus XC may be helpful. This filler is ideal for gently restoring volume in the under-eye region, especially for those who have a recessed midface or lack cheek projection.
Unlike some fillers, JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus XC provides a soft, natural look without adding excessive bulk. However, for individuals with more prominent fat pads or “festooned” bags, fillers are unlikely to provide satisfactory results, and surgery is typically required.
Additional Options for Improving Skin Quality
Laser Treatments & Skin Resurfacing
Laser treatments, peels, and resurfacing can be beneficial for improving skin texture, reducing fine lines, and brightening the under-eye area. These treatments, however, are not effective for addressing the appearance of fat pads or significant under-eye bags. They work by enhancing the skin’s surface rather than affecting the underlying structure.
For individuals with deep under-eye bags or other hollowed areas on the face, these treatments can complement other procedures but won’t correct the volume loss on their own.
Skincare Products
High-quality skincare products can help maintain skin health, improve elasticity, and slow visible signs of aging, but they cannot remove or reduce under-eye bags. Products focusing on hydration, collagen support, and firmness can enhance the skin’s quality over time, making a difference in overall appearance. While skincare is essential for supporting healthy skin (our body’s largest organ), it is not a standalone solution for significant fat pads or under-eye bags.
For guidance on how to choose certain skincare products, check out this simple guide from the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.
Managing Expectations
It’s important to understand that each treatment has limitations. People with chronic sinus issues, for example, may always have some degree of fat pad prominence under the eyes due to inflammation. Knowing when to choose non-surgical options for subtle enhancement and when surgical correction is required can help avoid disappointment and ensure realistic, satisfying results.
Personalized Treatment Plans
As you can see, there are options available for those looking to reduce the appearance of under-eye bags that time and gravity often produce. However, not all aesthetic services and surgical procedures offer the same results. The choice is ultimately very personal, and we recommend consulting with a professional like Dr. Lucas to determine the best option for achieving a rejuvenated look, so you can face the world with fresh eyes!