
When it comes to a youthful look the eyes certainly have it.
In fact, the whole area around the eye is an important part of an overall youthful appearance and for some can be a significant aspect of the aging face.
As we age we tend to get lines around the eyes, some of us suffer from hollow eyes, or crow’s feet at the corners. The skin under the eye skin thins as we age which can reveal dark under-eye circles. We can also suffer excess skin around the lower and upper eyelids resulting in droopy eyelids which can affect peripheral vision.
Another important point to note is that when communicating with others, the eyes are often the focal point of attention and can reveal if someone is tired, angry or sad.
Therefore tired and wrinkly eyes can not only age you, but can also give people the wrong impressions of how you are feeling.
HOW EYE REJUVENATION CAN HELP THE AGING FACE
Rejuvenated eyes can provide us with a more vibrant, awake, and youthful look.
The main issues around the eye area that can be helped by eye rejuvenation techniques are as follows:
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Crow’s Feet
- Deep Tear Troughs
- Excess Fat below Eyes
- Loose Skin around Eyes
The techniques available can also assist with hereditary conditions.
TECHNIQUES AVAILABLE
As well as the traditional blepharoplasty technique which involves surgery, there are now other less invasive techniques available. These include Radiofrequency (Thermage), Phototherapy (Fraxel, Matisse, SkinTyte) and Fat Grafting (lipofilling).
BLEPHAROPLASTY
Blepharoplasty is traditional eyelid surgery which is used to improve the appearance of upper eyelids and lower eyelids. It can be used to effectively remove excess fatty deposits in the upper eyelids and therefore reduce puffiness. It can also be used to correct bags and remove wrinkles under the eyes and loose or sagging skin in the upper eyelid area.
Along with improved looks, this type of surgery can significantly improve any issues with peripheral vision which can sometimes be obscured due to sagging eyelids.
Although this method does involve surgery, the incision lines for eyelid surgery are usually well concealed within the natural structures of the eyelid region. Furthermore the recovery period is usually quite quick.
RADIOFREQUENCY (THERMAGE)
Radiofrequency is a popular, non-surgical method used for tightening loose or sagging skin around the eyes, especially when in the early stages.
In short, radiofrequency uses electrical energy to heat the deep layers of the skin, whilst protecting the outer layer.
This technique directly penetrates the dermal and subcutaneous areas of the skin in order to remodel collagen and tighten skin.
This procedure is good for both men and women who want to tighten moderate bags and add youthful contours to their lids and brows Radiofrequency does not carry the risk of general anaesthesia complications, suture infections or extended downtime.
Although the results are not usually as dramatic as with traditional surgery, radiofrequency may be an effective option for those wishing to avoid surgery.
PHOTOTHERAPY (FRAXEL, MATISSE, SKINTYTE)
With this technique, light energy heats the upper layers of the skin which in turn help cells to stimulate the growth of new collagen. The new collagen provides the skin with a younger look and feel, and may eliminate the vessels that cause redness.
The tone and texture of the skin improves, and as the collagen rebuilds the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles can fade.
As with radiofrequency, this technique does not carry the risk of general anaesthesia complications, suture infections or extended downtime.
Phototherapy is generally indicated for those with light skin who do not tan easily; this is because of the risk of hyperpigmentation (or darkening of the skin).
FAT GRAFTING (LIPOFILLING)
As we become older, we lose fat around the eyes and contrary to popular belief, the loss of fat in this area can be quite unattractive. The area around the eyes and sometimes the front of the jaw line can become hollow resulting in a deflated look. This ’hollowing’ can also cause dark circles under the eyes.
Fat grafting can improve the balance and harmony of the face and thereby rejuvenate the face more naturally.
Fat grafting is basically a filling technique whereby fat is taken from one area of the body, usually by the use of a syringe or some form of low pressure suction and then relocated into the eye area. This procedure is considered to be less traumatic to the fat cells which in turn allow more viable fat cells to be successfully harvested.
The technique does not involve any incisions but there is a need for sedation during the procedure and there may be some down time due to swelling.
Generally, compared to other filler injections, fat transfer is more cost effective over the long term as much of the fat remains so there is little need for further treatment.
COMBINATION TREATMENT
Because we are all unique and age at different rates, it means we have different areas around the eyes that may require attention. There is not usually one technique, which on its own effectively covers all issues which may arise.
Fortunately a combination of the methods outlined above can be successfully used to combat the signs of ageing. It is widely recognised that once problem areas are identified, a combination of the techniques on offer is usually the best course of treatment.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Every treatment that is performed needs to be evaluated by its risks and benefits. Minimally invasive procedures will, in general, have a lower risk profile but may, in some circumstances; have a lesser degree of efficacy.
It is important you have realistic expectations of the outcome of each procedure.
A consultation with the surgeon will required to determine which procedure is best for you and suitable for your needs. This consultation will take into account factors such as your age and medical history, and will enable you to come to an informed decision.
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