Dark circles have a number of potential causes. Some are related to pigmentation and others are related to the physical structures surrounding the eyes. So can surgery remove dark circles?
Can Surgery Remove Dark Circles?
While surgery is unlikely to fix dark circles brought on by increased pigmentation under the eye, a lower blepharoplasty can certainly reduce the appearance of dark circles caused by structural differences.
Structural Differences that Cause Dark Circles
There are two structural differences or changes that can cause the appearance of dark circles beneath the eyes.
- First, an oversized pad of fat beneath the eye can make your eyes look puffy, causing the impression of dark circles. These features may be genetic. They can also develop as a result of aging as the collagen beneath the surrounding skin becomes less prominent.
- Second, a lack of fat tissue or collagen beneath the eye can cause a small pocket to form beneath the lower lid. The lower lid often casts a shadow onto this pocket, which makes it more visually apparent. This structural cause is typically a result of aging.
How Eyelid Surgery Can Help
A lower blepharoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that addresses the lower eyelid as well as the skin and tissue directly beneath your eyes. By doing a lower eyelid surgery in Newport Beach, your oculoplastic surgeon can smooth the area below your eye to get rid of your permanent dark circles.
To achieve this, your surgeon will make an incision either inside your lower eyelid or just below the lash line. With the first option your surgeon will only be able to redistribute or remove excess fat. With the second option, your surgeon can manipulate the fat pad and also remove any excess skin.
In both cases, there will be virtually no visible scarring once you’re healed, as the incision sites will be artfully hidden. Your visible recovery will generally take about two weeks, but you should feel fine long before then. If you have any questions regarding the procedure or your recovery, talk to your surgeon.
Where Eyelid Surgery Cannot Help
Some people have more intense pigmentation below their eyes. These dark circles are usually genetic and linked to the person’s ethnicity. While it is possible for people with lighter skin to have visible dark circles, they are more common among people with darker skin.
It is important to note that these dark circles are not a physical flaw. They’re simply part of your biological make-up. However, if you would prefer to not have them, there may be some treatments that can reduce their appearance.
Some topical treatments with your dermatologist may slightly reduce the appearance of dark circle. And laser treatment remains one of the most effective methods. These are designed to remove hyperpigmentation. Of course, the skin below your eye is highly sensitive. So you will want to make sure you only have a laser treatment with someone highly qualified.
Deciding on a Course of Action
Your eyes are likely one of your most prominent features, and they’re surrounded by highly delicate skin. Working around the eyes, making the work symmetrical, and hiding incision sites isn’t easy work. As such, it should only be entrusted to someone with the qualifications and experience to do the job right the first time.
If you are interested in laser therapy treatment or eyelid surgery in Newport Beach, set up an appointment with your oculoplastic surgeon. Together you can discuss your goals and the best way to achieve them. Based on their education and experience, your oculoplastic surgeon will be able to help you make the right choice for you.