Getting Rid of Those Hollowed, Aged Eyes
As we age, we lose volume in certain parts of our face while we gain volume in other parts. Generally
speaking, the region around our eyes and cheeks begins to lose fat, while the jowls and neck begins to gainfat. This
progression has little to do with your body weight. The fat stores in the upper cheek and around the eyes are
genetically predisposed to volume loss.
When we lose the fat layer along the lower eyelid region and upper cheek, the eyes begin to look hollow.
This gives the impression that we're fatigued and older. In our San Diego Facial Plastic Surgery practice, this is an
important and highly emphasized sign of aging that we treat on a regular basis. Rejuvenation of the eyes may be one of
the most high impact methods of facial rejuvenation. Traditional approaches focus on blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery
in which skin, muscle and fat are removed in order to sculpt the eyes. The reality is many times the eyes would actually
look older and often just different. This misses the whole goal of eyelid surgery which is to make the eyes look refreshed
and revitalized.
Adding volume is the most effective ways of rejuvenating the eyes. The real advantage is that it is
non-surgical and highly effective. My first choice for treating the hollows under the eyes is Restylane or Juvederm
for mild changes in a younger patient. This technique is used to fill the tear troughs. In patients with more advanced
volume loss that extends into the upper cheek region, and beyond the tear troughs, fat transfer is an excellent long
term solution. Fat transfer works by restoring the shape and contour of the midface and cheeks. This gives the upper
face a much younger appearance without making the person look different. Another advantage of fat transfer is that the
results are permanent.
Sculptra is an excellent alternative to fat transfer. I use it frequently to treat volume loss throughout
the face. The one area that needs the most experience and technical precision is under the eyes. Treating this region can
result in difficult-to-treat nodules and contour problems. However, if the individual has had experience and success with
this area and is aware of the different dilutions and technical issues involved, then Sculptra may be used. Unlike a
standard filler, sculptra works by stimulating fibroblasts in the skin to increase collagen growth. This results in thicker
skin which enhances volume. The results are long lasting (> 2 years).
For rejuvenation of the eyes in San Diego using Restylane, Juvederm or a fat transfer contact facial plastic
surgeon Dr. Amir Karam today.
Dr. Karam voted
"2010 Best Cosmetic Surgeon"
Ranch and Coast Magazine
Readers Choice Award
Contact Dr. Karam
