Eye bags are the appearance of the lower eyelid fat pads. As we age and lose facial volume, the bags are revealed. In the past, the only way to get rid of the eyebags was by blepharoplasty, lower eyelid surgery. The surgery was performed usually from inside the eyelid (transconjunctival blepharoplasty) or through an incision in the skin just below the lash line. The excess fat was removed.
In the past 6-7 years, our philosophy about the lower eyelids has evolved. We now preserve the volume (fat) of the lower lid, and in the majority of patients are able to get rid of the bags by replacing the lost volume in the lower eyelid tear trough.
A small amount of Restylane injected in the proper manner blends the "eye bag" with the upper cheek, restoring a youthful, rested appearance to the eyes. The treatment takes about 15 minutes, is relatively painless, and the results are immediately evident. The treatment is very delicate and advanced training and ability are required. In the proper hands, the treatment is very safe and effective.
If you decide on fat transfer, your own fat can be similiarly placed. Once again, it is imperative that you seek an experienced practioner, as fat is a permanent filler. For patients with very large bags, surgery is sometimes still necessary. Once treated, instead of looking tired after a full night's sleep, you can look most rested after staying up all night.