Treatments for malar bags using a CO2 laser? Can this be done on my dark skin?

Question

I am between a 4 and 5 on the Fitzpatrick scale I believe. I am of African, Asian and Caucasian decent and I have been told that my skin is too dark for some of the lazars in the past. I am 51 and my malar bags are not obvious in the attached photos but they are almost always present. I do not have eye bags otherwise, just this puffiness at the cheekbone at the eyesocket. I use retin -A .1% daily

J. Kevin Duplechain, MD, FACS · Answer

Although c02 laser resurfacing can be  performed on darker skin types,  it might not be the only choice for malar bags.  Because the laser will primarily treat the surface, it may not penetrate deeply enough to improve the malar problem significantly.  Needle RF technology allows the heat to be deposited in the area where the problem is , as does  ultrasound technology without providing  as much heat to the skin.  Both devices may provide better options.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

There are many ways to treat dark circles, as well as under eye wrinkles and bags. It is important to note however, that the majority of times the cause for discoloration is genetic and due to the viability of the blood vessels below the skin. A combination approach is always needed to get the best results in this area and this includes: topical skin care, laser and/or radiofrequency treatments, and fillers if placed appropriately. All my patients are on topical lightening agents, typically a vitamin C serum product in the AM and a brightening agent and/or a vitamin A based product in the PM. Sun protection is essential.Resurfacing and tightening are essential. My patients get offered a menu of options, for which a combination gives the best results. Light salicylic acid peels help give textural and pigment improvement; nonablative lasers (Fraxel or Clear + Brilliant) can be used to tighten and improve fine lines/wrinkles and crepe skin; fractional radiofrequency devices (Sublative, Viva) are cutting edge and improve texture, tone, and wrinkles with very little downtime; radiofrequency with pulsed electromagnetic fields (Venus) are amazing for puffiness and bags, in patients who do not want eyelid surgery; appropriately placed fillers can replace lost volume, cover up the vessels and fat pads below improving the appearance -- patients should pick a well experienced practitioner to prevent complications such as Tyndall (blue discoloration) and irregularities, one that uses a cannula for injection will help give results with little bruising or swelling; microsecond Nd:YAG laser treatments (Laser genesis) has produced dramatic improvement in discoloration in some of my patients and is safe in dark skin types, similar to the radiofrequency devices. For lifting, ablative laser resurfacing such as co2 laser combined with monopoloar radiofrequency deep heating (thermage) give amazing results. The key is for a patient to see a cosmetic dermatologist with experience in all the latest devices and techniques so the persons goals can be met by a combination approach of individualized treatments and skin care. In some cases, those who smile and have crepe skin or under eye wrinkles, a small amount of neurotoxin (botox, dysport, xeomin) strategically placed in the lower eyelid skin can improve wrinkles dramatically and give the eye a more "open" appearance.

Treatments for malar bags using a CO2 laser? Can this be done on my dark skin?

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Treatments for malar bags using a CO2 laser? Can this be done on my dark skin?

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Everything you need to know about CO2 Laser

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