Periorbital hollowing refers to the loss of volume in the area around the eyes, leading to a sunken or hollow appearance. This condition can occur naturally with aging, or as a result of certain medical conditions or lifestyle factors. It can affect both men and women and can be a cause of concern for those who experience it. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for periorbital hollowing.

CAUSES OF PERIORBITAL HOLLOWING

As mentioned, periorbital hollowing can be a natural part of the aging process. As we age, the skin around our eyes loses elasticity, and the fat pads that cushion our eyes become thinner. Additionally, the bone and muscle around the eyes can also recede, leading to a more prominent appearance of the eye socket. This loss of volume can lead to a hollow appearance under the eyes, which can make a person look tired or older.

Periorbital hollowing can also occur due to lifestyle factors. Chronic dehydration can cause the skin to lose elasticity and become more prone to wrinkles and hollowing. A lack of sleep, stress, and poor nutrition can also contribute to periorbital hollowing.

Certain medical conditions can also cause periorbital hollowing. Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, can cause inflammation and damage to the tissues around the eyes, leading to a sunken appearance. Thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, can also cause changes in the eye area. Finally, medications that thin the skin or affect the body’s ability to produce collagen can lead to periorbital hollowing.

SYMPTOMS OF PERIORBITAL HOLLOWING

The most obvious symptom is the sunken appearance of the skin around the eyes. This can cause dark circles under the eyes, which can make a person look tired or unhealthy. Additionally, periorbital hollowing can make the eyes appear more prominent or bulging, which can be a source of self-consciousness for some people.

In severe cases, periorbital hollowing can affect vision. The loss of volume around the eyes can cause the skin to sag, which can block a person’s vision or cause them to experience dry eye syndrome.

TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR PERIORBITAL HOLLOWING

There are several treatment options, depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Here are some of the most common treatments:

DERMAL FILLERS

This is a popular option for treating periorbital hollowing. Dermal fillers are a non-surgical treatment option that can provide quick and noticeable results. Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Restylane or Juvederm, are commonly used for this purpose, as they are safe and effective in adding volume and smoothing out wrinkles around the eyes. They can be injected under the eyes to add volume and smooth out wrinkles. The results can last for several months to a year, depending on the type of filler used.

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps to keep the skin hydrated and plump. It is commonly used in dermal fillers because it is biocompatible, meaning it is easily accepted by the body, and it can be broken down over time without causing any harm. Restylane and Juvederm are two of the most popular hyaluronic acid fillers used to treat periorbital hollowing.

The procedure for injecting dermal fillers under the eyes is relatively quick and straightforward. A small amount of the filler is injected into the area around the eye using a fine needle. Injections can be uncomfortable, but a numbing cream or local anesthetic can be used to minimize any pain or discomfort.

Results

The results of dermal fillers can be seen immediately, and they can last for several months to a year, depending on the type of filler used and the individual’s metabolism. Over time, the body will absorb the filler, and the effects will gradually diminish. Patients can choose to have touch-up injections to maintain their results.

It is important to note that while dermal fillers can provide noticeable results, they are not a permanent solution for periorbital hollowing. The injections will need to be repeated periodically to maintain the results. Additionally, there are some risks associated with the use of dermal fillers, such as bruising, swelling, and infection. It is essential to choose a qualified and experienced provider for this procedure to minimize the risks and complications, and achieve the best results.

FAT TRANSFER

A fat transfer, also known as fat grafting or fat injection, is a surgical procedure used to treat periorbital hollowing by transferring fat from one part of the body to the area around the eyes. This procedure is more invasive than dermal fillers but can provide longer-lasting results. The body absorbs some of the fat over time, but the remaining fat can last for several years.

Fat transfer procedure involves three steps: harvesting fat, processing the fat, and injecting the fat into the desired area. The very first step involves harvesting fat from the patient’s own body using liposuction techniques. The most common donor sites for fat harvesting include the abdomen, thighs, and hips. Then, harvested fat is processed to remove any impurities or excess fluids, leaving behind pure, healthy fat cells.

Final step involves injecting the purified fat cells into the area around the eyes. The surgeon will use a fine needle to inject the fat cells into the deep layers of the skin to achieve a smooth and natural-looking result. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, and patients can typically return home the same day.

Results

One of the main advantages of fat transfer is that it can provide longer-lasting results compared to dermal fillers. While some of the transferred fat may be absorbed by the body over time, the remaining fat cells can last for several years. The results of fat transfer are also more natural-looking and can provide a more comprehensive rejuvenation of the entire face.

However, it is important to note that fat transfer is a surgical procedure and carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, and scarring. It is also a more involved procedure than dermal fillers, and patients may experience some swelling and bruising for several days after the procedure. Patients considering fat transfer should consult with a qualified and experienced provider to determine if the procedure is right for them.

SURGERY

In some severe cases of periorbital hollowing, surgical intervention may be necessary to achieve optimal results. Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure that can remove excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper or lower eyelids to provide a more youthful and refreshed appearance. This procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia and has a relatively short recovery time.

During the procedure, the surgeon will make small incisions along the natural creases of the eyelids to remove excess tissue, reposition fat deposits, and tighten the skin and muscle.

The procedure can be done on either the upper or lower eyelids or both, depending on the patient’s needs. Upper eyelid surgery is typically done to address sagging skin that can obscure vision or create a tired or aged appearance. Lower eyelid surgery is often done to address puffiness or bags under the eyes that can create a tired or worn-out look.

The recovery time for eyelid surgery is relatively short, with most patients able to return to work and normal activities within a week to ten days after the procedure. However, patients may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort during the first few days after surgery.

Results

One of the advantages of eyelid surgery is that it can provide long-lasting results for periorbital hollowing. While the natural aging process may continue to affect the area around the eyes, the results of eyelid surgery can be expected to last for many years.

It is important to note that eyelid surgery is a surgical procedure and carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, and scarring. Patients considering eyelid surgery should consult with a qualified and experienced provider to determine if the procedure is right for them.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES

In some cases, making lifestyle changes can improve the appearance of periorbital hollowing. Drinking more water, getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and eating a healthy diet can all improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of periorbital hollowing.

Drinking plenty of water is important for maintaining healthy skin, as dehydration can lead to dryness and wrinkles. Proper hydration can help to plump up the skin, making it appear more youthful and reducing the appearance of under-eye hollowing.

Getting enough sleep is also essential for maintaining good skin. Lack of sleep can lead to dark circles under the eyes and contribute to the appearance of periorbital hollowing. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night to give your body the rest it needs to regenerate skin cells and maintain a healthy complexion.

Reducing stress is another important step in improving the appearance of periorbital hollowing. Stress can contribute to a range of skin problems, including wrinkles, dryness, and acne. Try practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to help reduce stress and promote healthy skin.

Finally, eating a healthy diet can provide the nutrients and antioxidants your skin needs to maintain elasticity and reduce the appearance of periorbital hollowing. Focus on eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats such as those found in nuts, seeds, and fatty fish. Avoid processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats, as these can contribute to skin damage and premature aging.

Results

While lifestyle changes may not be enough to completely eliminate periorbital hollowing, they can help improve the appearance of the skin around the eyes and promote overall skin health. By adopting healthy habits such as drinking enough water, getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and eating a healthy diet, you can help to minimize the appearance of periorbital hollowing and maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin.

CONCLUSION

Periorbital hollowing can occur naturally with aging, as well as due to certain medical conditions or lifestyle factors. It can affect a person’s appearance and cause self-consciousness, but there are several treatment options available. Dermal fillers and fat transfer are two popular options for adding volume and smoothing out wrinkles around the eyes. Do remember though that while dermal fillers are non-surgical and provide quick results, they are not permanent and require repeated treatments. On the other hand, fat transfer is a more invasive surgical procedure but can provide longer-lasting results. It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced provider to choose the best treatment option and minimize the risks associated with these procedures.

Want to read more about anti-aging and medical aesthetic treatments? Checkout our Good Skin Secrets!