Why promote the microlipostructure of hollow dark circles?
Before / after
Real cases from the practice, unretouched, framed on the treated area only. Each result is individual and does not predict yours.


Photographs published with the patients’ written consent.
Written and reviewed by Dr Bernard Hayot, ophthalmologist, RPPS 10003926226.
Why do hollow circles appear?
Hollow circles are due to the melting of fat, which reveals the orbital rims and the bony contours of the lower eyelid.
One of the signs of facial ageing, this melting occurs earlier on the eyelids, because the skin is extremely thin and the peri-ocular area highly mobile. It can also be encouraged by significant weight loss, and sometimes by hormonal imbalance.
A specialist in eyelid and oculoplastic surgery for over 30 years, Dr Hayot proposes to treat these changes, and the “tired” appearance of the eyes they cause, with microlipostructure of the hollow dark circle.
What is the microlipostructure of hollow dark circles?
Microlipofilling (or microlipostructure) is one of the effective treatments for hollow dark circles. The fat loss responsible for them is remedied by grafting fat from the patient’s own body.
Volumes that have melted away are restored by autologous fat transfer. After liposuction, preferably from the abdomen or the inner knees, the fat is rinsed, cleaned, defibrosed and broken up before being grafted into the hollow of the dark circles with a microcannula to level the surface.
Filling the circles is usually combined with the removal of bags to perfect the final result.
How does micro-lipofilling of hollow dark circles work?
Micro-lipofilling of hollow dark circles is performed in the operating theatre under deep local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic.
Before a microlipostructure of the hollow ring
To avoid taking any risks during the procedure, certain precautions must be taken.
For example, in addition to the medical consultation with Dr Hayot, patients must see the anaesthetist at least 48 hours before the operation to confirm that it is feasible. They must also stop all anticoagulant treatment (including aspirin) at least one week before the operation, in order to limit bleeding.
It is also advisable to obtain any prescribed medication (eye drops, compresses, etc.) before the procedure, so that you have it to hand as soon as you leave the clinic. Finally, you must not eat or drink for at least 8 hours before the microsurgery.
During micro-lipofilling of the hollow ring
The procedure lasts between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the associated procedures. The fat bags are removed transconjunctivally, and the hollow circles are filled with a microlipostructure to even out the levels. The two operations are systematically combined to give natural-looking results.
After a microlipostructure of the hollow ring
Dr Hayot will explain everything you need to know after your procedure, and the recommendations to follow to optimise the results and limit after-effects.
For example, cold compresses can reduce swelling, and eye drops can soothe dry eyes. You will need to avoid social activities for 8 to 10 days, until the swelling and bruising subside.
Microlipostructure of hollow dark circles: what results?
After micro-lipofilling of the hollow dark circles, patients are encouraged to apply ice compresses to the area regularly to speed up healing. Dr Hayot follows you up for 1 month after your procedure to check its effectiveness.
The effects of surgery are visible within 3 weeks and definitive about 3 months later. The result is long-lasting: puffiness and dark circles do not return after the operation.
Do you have a question about surgery or hollow dark circles? Do not hesitate to contact Dr Bernard Hayot, a Paris-based physician and oculoplastic surgeon specialising in eyelid and oculoplastic surgery.
This page is for information. It does not replace a consultation: every situation is judged on examination.