One of the more common concerns of the patients we treat in our practice is the appearance of their eyes and the surrounding tissues, and one of the most frequent comments we hear is: “My eyes just look tired.” There are a number of factors that contribute to the appearance of the eyes and periorbital (surrounding) tissues, including upper and lower eyelid skin quality, the presence and position of the natural fat tissue of the eyelids, and also the quality and position of the cheek and forehead tissues.
Younger patients frequently notice mildly increased eyelid skin laxity, often with discoloration or “dark circles” of the lower eyelids. Older patients often notice the same symptoms, although their symptoms are often more pronounced, and they may notice more “puffy” appearing lower eyelids. Other patient concerns include: feeling like they are frowning, or straining the forehead to completely open the eyes. Many patients, young and old, are concerned with vertical and horizontal lines that have developed in the glabella (the lower forehead between the eyes) and the appearance of crow’s feet.
There are several minimally-invasive and surgical methods to improve the appearance of the eyes and surrounding tissues. The choice of which treatment(s) will be most effective depends on a thorough evaluation and examination of the eyes and face. For a patient who has good overall eyelid skin quality, but with some mild wrinkles of the eyelids (typically younger patients), the regular use of an eye-specific skin care product can improve skin quality , and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Our product of choice in this area is Elastiderm by Obagi, which contains a bi-mineral complex of Copper and Zinc to stimulate collagen production as well as Malonic Acid and Blueberry extract which stimulate skin cells and prevent free radical damage, respectively.
For crow’s feet and frown lines in the glabella, botulinum toxin (BoTox, Dysport) injections will temporarily smooth and reduce the lines, and provide a more youthful appearance. For patients who have deeper creases, BoTox may not completely remove the glabellar lines, in which case the use of dermal fillers (Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm) can often be performed for a longer-lasting more profound effect.
For patients who have excess eyelid skin or “puffy” eyelids, Blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) is an excellent procedure that will improve the appearance of the eyes and provide long-term results. In a brief outpatient surgical procedure, excess eyelid skin and muscle are removed, as well as excess protruding fat from the compartments around the eye. In the lower eyelid, depending on an individual patient’s exam, the fat tissue may be repositioned rather than excised to improve the appearance of both the eyelid and the tear trough, which is also often an area of concern. Blepharoplasty scars are well-hidden along natural eyelid creases, and allows patients to look and feel younger, in a way that still appears natural. For patients who have ptosis (drooping lids), additional procedures can be performed at the time of surgery to improve the function of the lids.
Each patient has a unique set of concerns and goals; Dr Ridha will work with you at your consultation to formulate the best treatment plan to accomplish your goals and make sure you look as awake and healthy as you feel. Call the office to find out more, or to schedule your consultation.
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