Lidlift Kenneth D. Steinsapir, M.D.
Cosmetic, Facial & Eye Plastic Surgery

Since my lower eyelid surgery the area under my eyes seems hollow. What causes this and what can be done about it?

Lower eyelid surgery is performed to address skin wrinkling and lower eyelid fullness due to orbital fat that over time bulges forward into the lower eyelid. By carefully sculpting lower eyelid fat, a balance can be struck leaving enough volume in the lower eyelid to eliminate the bulge but prevent deflating the lower eyelid which can contribute to the under eye circle. The under-eye circle is actually the result of a gradual fall in the cheek fat over time. There are several options at the time lower blepharoplasty is initially considered. For the right patient, a conservative lower blepharoplasty done transconjunctival (behind the lower eyelid) can be a fabulous choice. This is particularly good for a relatively young person with thick lower eyelid skin but lower eyelid fullness. Over the past few years, we recognize that it can be helpful to conserve the lower eyelid fat by positioning it into the top of the cheek to help fill in the under eye circle. Chemical peels can firm the skin of the lower eyelid masking the circle. Restylane® can be used to fill in the under eye circle. Where appropriate a vertical midface lift over an orbital rim implant can also address the under-eye circle. Many of these approaches can be used to address the under eye circle that becomes more obvious once the lower eyelid fat creating the bulge has been removed. Because the treatment is relatively easy and can last a year or more, many patients faced with this issue elected to have Deepfill™ Restylane® to fill the under eye circle. A personal consultation with Dr. Steinsapir is the best way to learn what is the best approach for you situation.