36 years old and desperate for malar bag solution. What options are available for me? (Photo)

Question

Hi, I'm turning 36. I've just had my first child and while I've been aware of my malar bags (even the very young children in my family have them) for as long as I can remember, they are becoming more and more pronounced. I look exhausted and when I catch my reflection in a bright light, it's depressing. What do you suggest at my age as I know they will only get worse.

Allan E. Wulc, MD · Answer

If you have malar bags, or festoons,  I would suggest
that you first get checked for a thyroid problem.  You may have a disorder
of thyroid function, such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
 Occasionally, malar bags improve when the underlying thyroid disorder is
treated. In the past you may have had a thyroid inflammation that
liberated thyroid antibodies that cause the cheek swelling.   We have also seen many patients in our practice that have
allergies to various environmental allergens, and suggest chemical allergy
testing if your bags are long standing. In terms of solutions, many physicians try fillers.
 Fillers cause their own set of problems, including, often, worsening of
the malar bags.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

Malar bags are tough to eliminate.  A lower lid blepharoplasty with elevation of the fat pad and laser on the skin can often help improve the appearance of the fat pads.  You should try some filler first to give some volume to the area which will help to make the skin contour more even.

David F. LaPatka, MD (retired) · Answer

I agree that your malar bags are minimal and filler should be the definite first choice. I would not recommend surgery at this time. As you age , surgery can be reconsidered. You may also have some fluid retention that is exacerbating your condition.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Malar bags are extremely difficult to treat.  Even with a lateral lower eyelid incision elevation of the cheek within Orbiculopexy and skin excision malar bags tend to recur.  Yours are minimal.I see would suggest filler injections to avoid the surgery and see if the result pleases you.

36 years old and desperate for malar bag solution. What options are available for me? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Malar bag solution.

Answer: Malar bag solution.

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36 years old and desperate for malar bag solution. What options are available for me? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Malar bag solution.

Answer: Malar bag solution.

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Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.