Why do dark circles appear?

Dark circles are a variation in the color of the skin under the eyes. Often a source of complexes, dark circles are the result of skin dehydration. Many factors can cause this phenomenon. The first is skin aging, which causes a gradual disappearance of the fat between the skin of the lower eyelid and the orbital bone. The result is a “skeletonization” of the eyes, as the eyelids deepen.

Different types of rings can be distinguished:

• Hollow circles. These are the first consequence of skin dehydration. They form a valley that descends from the root of the nose to the cheekbone, creating shadowy areas under the eyes.
• Dark circles. Brown or bluish, these dark circles are the result of poor blood circulation. This accumulation becomes increasingly visible as the skin thins and becomes dehydrated. A number of factors can cause the appearance of dark circles, including poor lifestyle habits and lack of sleep. A hereditary component often plays an important role.
• Bags under the eyes. These are linked to an accumulation of water in the lower eyelid. With age, the loss of facial volume causes the lower eyelids to droop, giving a “puffy eyes” appearance that accentuates the appearance of dark circles.

What is the cosmetic surgery solution for dark circles?

The best solution for hollow circles is to inject fat into the lower eyelids to counteract dehydration. This surgical technique is called lipofilling or micro-lipostructure. It involves the transfer of autologous fat (from the patient), which is extracted from the inside of the knees using a fine cannula. The amount of fat is small (around 1 mL). Once extracted, the fat is rinsed and centrifuged.
Finally, the eyelids are injected in the same way as for hyaluronic acid. The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic. This highly effective graft offers a natural, permanent result.

For dark circles, Dr. Hayot proposes nano-lipostructure or “nano fat grafting”. This procedure is similar to micro-lipostructure, since it also involves fat grafting. However, the fat taken from the patient undergoes treatment to extract stem cells and various growth factors. The extracted substance has a special property: it regenerates the dermis by stimulating neo-collagenesis (collagen production by the skin).

The skin of the eyelids gradually regains its volume, while obtaining better vascularization. Blood circulation is improved, and dark circles disappear. This surgical technique is the only one that can mask dark circles. The results are equally definitive.

Moisturizing the skin to prevent dark circles from returning

Lipofilling guarantees optimal results. However, here are a few tips to prevent the appearance of dark circles, even after surgery:

A healthy lifestyle is extremely important for healthy skin. If your skin isn’t properly moisturized, your eyelids take the brunt of the damage. So avoid excessive consumption of salty foods and alcohol. These products not only dehydrate you, but also damage your lymphatic system, leading to the appearance of dark circles.

A sufficient amount of sleep (between 7 and 8 hours) is necessary to ensure healthy skin. Finally, don’t forget to moisturize regularly by drinking water and applying moisturizing skin care products.