There are both surgical and non-surgical options to rejuvenate the area around the eyes. Non-surgical treatments such as Botox Cosmetic, Restylane, and Juvederm can help in the early stages of the aging process. Although these treatments are not permanent, Crow’s feet, Furrows and Dark circles can be softened and often eliminated with these treatments.
The eye is surrounded in the orbit by fat. The fat surrounding the eyeball is a very low density fat, unlike the fat in the rest of the body. The eye floats on this fat like a ping-pong ball in water inside the orbit. A membrane under the eyelid holds that fat in position. As we age, that membrane weakens and the fat behind it bulges forward. This bulging of the fat, especially noted in the lower eyelids, gives one a tired, droopy appearance. Eyelid surgery attempts to correct this problem by sometimes removing the excess skin, tightening the muscles and the removal or repositioning of this fat.
Another critical portion of the aging process involves the cheek pad (midface). As the cheek pad falls, the lower eyelid droops and the nasolabial folds appear deeper. Removal and/or repositioning of the cheekpad fat may improve the appearance of the eyelids as well.
A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon will determine the procedures best suited to achieve your desired results. If you are hesitating, seek a second opinion about what should be done to feel more comfortable about your surgical decision.
