Non-surgical Eye Bag Rejuvenation

Eye bags and Aging

A very common aging change is the development of “bags” in the lower eyelids. There are several causes for the development of eye bags associated with aging. These include familial traits, loss of skin elasticity, sun damage, laxity of the supporting tissues and deflation of fat surrounding the eyes and changes in the eye socket. As the eyes and eyelids are very complex and delicate areas, they need to be managed and treated with care.

Changes in Lower Eyelid with Aging and Lower Eyelid Rejuvenation

With aging, the fat in the lower eyelid protrudes due to weakening of the supporting structures. The lower eyelid fat pads become more visible as the skin and muscle weaken. Fat protrusion produces a shadow from light from above causing the appearance of dark circles. With further volume loss and sagging of the soft tissues of the cheek, the grooves below the eyes will further deepen. Tear trough often extends at the junction of lower lid and cheeks. These lower eyelid changes produce the double bulge that is typical of the aging face versus the smooth transition from the eyelid to the cheek seen in the youthful face.

Skin under the eye can lose its elasticity as we age. Environmental factors and/or behavioural influences increase folding and redundancy in the skin. Similarly, genetics and/or repeated swelling and inflammation (e.g. allergies) can aggravate this process.

Changes in the muscle tone around the eye (i.e. orbicularis oculi) and integrity of the tendons can also affect the lower eyelid position and eye shape.

Lower eyelid rejuvenation may consist of surgical and non-surgical management. Eye bag reduction surgery aims to replace volume to lift and return tissues to their prior fuller appearances rather than excise and remove perceived excesses.

Schematic diagram of surgical management of eye bag reduction

Utilising similar concept and with the advancement of cosmetic medicine, a set of non-surgical minimally invasive treatment can be combined to reduce eye bags effectively without the downtime associated with surgery.

What is involved in non-surgical minimally invasive eye bag reduction and lower eyelid rejuvenation?

Dr. Xu of Restore Cosmetic developed a set of lower eyelid rejuvenation techniques to reduce eye bags using a non-surgical minimally invasive approach to address the different anatomical changes of aging that leads to eye bag formation.

Using an advanced thread lifting technique, the sagging tissues underneath the eye can be tightened and reshaped to the desired contour of the lower eyelid. Aside from pushing back the protruded fat and restoring the position of the supporting layer of the lower eyelid, this method also helps in collagen production and activates cellular regeneration. Furthermore, using a closed technique, tissues are released redraped to a much better placement. These processes involve high level of skill, which Dr. Xu specialises in.

Other treatments are then used to fill the volume and facilitate smooth transition of the region between the lid and cheek.

The principles of non-surgical minimally invasive eye bags reduction are:

1. Tightening of the underlying structures supporting the lower eyelid fat
2. Lifting the sagging outer corner of the eye back to its position
3. Restoration of malar prominence
4. Smoothening tear trough
5. Lightening of pigmented skin and reducing fine lines

What are the different types of eye bags?

In general, eye bags can be divided into two different types: Structural and Compound.

Non-surgical minimally invasive eye bag reduction FAQs

How long does the effect of non-surgical minimally invasive eye bag reduction last for?

On average, with proper care and healthy lifestyle, research show results can last from 2 to 4 years. Results may also vary depending on the age at the time of the treatment, the nature of skin, speed of the individual’s aging process and the quantity of threads utilised.

How do you prepare for non-surgical minimally invasive eye bag reduction?

Formal consultation in our rooms is necessary to properly assess and discuss the issues concerning the upper eyelid. You will receive a comprehensive package, which includes written information about the procedure and detailed post-operative care instructions. Preoperative photographic documentation will be obtained during the consultation as well as answering all your questions regarding the procedure. A cooling off period of at least 7 days will be given as per Medical Board of Australia guidelines. A second or subsequent visit may be arranged if you have any further questions.

Where is the procedure performed?

The procedure is performed in our fully equipped procedure room under local anaesthesia.

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure can take approximately 1 hour.

How long does the recovery take?

Most patients can resume light activities immediately after the procedure. Normal activities including exercise may be resumed in 48-72 hours.

Results will continue to get better as the collagen production is slowly enhanced.

What are the risks and possible side effects of this procedure?

There may be minimal swelling and bruising which will continue to improve with time and rest. Discomfort can be managed by taking simple analgesics. Other rare risks include infection and temporary small dimples and lumps on the skin. Dimples and lumps usually resolve within 7 days. Follow-up will be arranged to monitor and address any concerns.

Will the procedure leave any scars?

The procedure is non-surgical minimally invasive and therefore will not leave any scars.

What is the cost for non-surgical minimally invasive eye bag reduction?

The cost for this procedure depends on different factors such as your lower eyelid condition and the amount of treatment required.

Why choose Restore Cosmetic for your upper eyelid surgery?

Our fully equipped facility and our team at Restore Cosmetic provides you with the highest level of patient care in order to make your journey a pleasant experience. We use only TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) approved materials and equipment to provide you reliable treatment.

Dr. Michael Xu is a highly trained certified Cosmetic Surgery Practitioner with more than 30 years of experience in cosmetic medicine and surgery.

We recommend a face-to-face consultation with Dr. Xu in order to thoroughly assess and further discuss with you about eye bag reduction. We encourage you to ask questions in order to be fully confident with your level of knowledge because at Restore Cosmetic, we believe that being well-informed is the primary step to starting your journey in cosmetic surgery.