The eyes are the window to the soul, and we don’t want our soul to look tired. Whether you’re suddenly noticing sunken, tired-looking eyes or have always struggled with a hollow under-eye look, there are solutions. When creams and serums don’t solve the problem, it might be time to see a professional.
The Zoom Effect
Ever since work-from-home during the height of COVID-19, providers have seen an increase in patients with under-eye concerns.
“A lot of people that come to me saying that they want under-eye filler for hollow under eyes are interested in adjusting how they look on camera,” says Monroe, LA dermatologist Janine Hopkins, MD. “They see themselves on Zoom all day, and that has made them notice this apparent sunken look.”
Hollow Under-Eye Solutions
Ring Lights and Strategic Concealing
“I find that often these patients would benefit more from a ring light than from filler or surgery,” Dr. Hopkins says. “A more flattering light really changes how our faces look on camera. Your Zoom is a two-dimensional image of our three-dimensional faces, so changing your light source can have a very dramatic impact and completely erase that hollow under-eye look.”
Similarly, applying a concealer and using a color corrector can help erase the look of perpetual shadows.
PRP and Laser Solutions
“I’m doing a lot of platelet-rich plasma to address these under-eye concerns,” Dr. Hopkins says. “There’s no worry of overfilling or over-correcting because collagen production is always going to look good. I also really like lasers and light devices for this area.”
“Lasers effectively treat textural issues and discoloration under the eye,” adds New York oculoplastic surgeon Robert Schwarcz, MD. “This includes fine lines, wrinkles, looser skin and dark circles.”
Under-Eye Filler
Recently approved Restylane Eyelight—designed to mimic the body’s natural hyaluronic acid—has expanded the options for treatment of hollow or sunken under eyes. In the clinical study, 87 percent of patients experienced a reduction in under-eye hollowness after three months.
Chicago dermatologist and lead investigator in the clinical trial, Carolyn Jacob, MD, says patients are seeking sophisticated solutions. “Many of my patients seek treatment for hollows under the eyes, and traditional products like creams and concealers don’t provide the long-lasting results they desire,” she says. “Restylane Eyelight offers a safe and effective solution, enabling my patients to achieve their aesthetic undereye goals with natural-looking outcomes that can last up to 18 months.”
Surgical Solutions
Depending on exactly how severe your hollow under eyes are, there are surgical solutions that you may benefit from. The most well-known of these is the lower blepharoplasty or lower lid lift.
“Lower blepharoplasties can be more complicated and may involve general anesthesia for the patient’s comfort and safety,” says Kirkland, WA facial plastic surgeon Daniel J. Liebertz, MD. “Incisions are placed either under the lower lashes or inside of the eyelid and excess fat and skin [are] removed. Recovery from a lower blepharoplasty is similar to an upper—any bruising and swelling resolves within a week or two.”
“For persistent under-eye concerns, consulting a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon is recommended. Surgical procedures, such as lower blepharoplasty or midface lifts, may be necessary for addressing severe puffiness, sagging or festoons. These procedures require a tailored approach based on individual anatomy to avoid complications,” says New York plastic surgeon Mokhtar Asaadi, MD.
Conclusion
If you’re struggling with hollow under-eye concerns, there are various solutions available, from non-invasive treatments like ring lights and concealing to more invasive procedures like lower blepharoplasty. Consulting a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon can help you determine the best course of action for your individual concerns and goals.