Dark circles under the lower eyelids are a common aesthetic concern that may not always be caused by a poor night’s sleep. Despite popular belief, shadows under the eyes can be caused by a wide variety of factors — from genetic predisposition to allergies and dehydration. Blepharoplasty can certainly reduce under-eye shadows and make you look brighter, but this possibility depends on the causes of your dark circles.
Causes of Shadows Underneath the Eyes
Dark under-eye circles may result from any of the following factors:
- Volume loss or hollowness underneath the eyes
- Under-eye puffiness or protruding fat pads
- Thinning skin revealing underlying blood vessels
- Genetic predisposition to darkness beneath the lower eyelids
- Allergies or lifestyle factors (such as lack of sleep or dehydration)
Treatments to Alleviate Dark Circles
When performed by a well-qualified plastic surgeon, the lower blepharoplasty procedure is most effective for patients whose dark circles are caused by:
- Puffiness beneath the lower eyelids/under-eye bags
- Sagging or thin, lax skin in the lower lids
- Baggy areas casting a dark shadow
There may also be other solutions at our practice to help you address tired-looking eyes. If you look fatigued or aged due to thinning skin in the under-eye hollows, dermal fillers may be able to help you restore depleted volume as well as look and feel more youthful. Skillful injections can smooth the contours above and below the eyes, giving you a more rested appearance. Dr. Savetsky can speak with you about your goals and give you effective solutions based on your needs and hopes for the outcome.
Dr. Ira Savetsky is a board-certified and fellowship-trained NYC plastic surgeon who ensures each person who visits our practice has a thorough and accurate understanding of what blepharoplasty can accomplish, including the potential limitations of the procedure. Contact our New York City practice today to get more information about eyelid surgery in a consultation, or to learn more about our facial plastic surgery options.