Tired of Under-Eye Hollows?

Is Your Under-Eye Area Making You Look Older? The Truth About Under-Eye Hollows

Many people complain about tired-looking eyes due to hollows or shadows beneath them. While often mistaken for simple dark circles, these can actually be shadows formed by a loss of volume or hollowing in the under-eye area. "Under-eye hollows" are a primary culprit behind a perpetually fatigued and aged appearance. So, what can you do to improve them?

Why Are My Under-Eyes Hollow, Even If I'm Young?

Typically, the main cause of under-eye hollowness is attributed to aging. As we age, the orbital septum (the membrane enclosing the fat tissue under the eyes) weakens, skin elasticity decreases, and fat distribution shifts, causing the fat under the eyes to protrude. When this under-eye fat bulges forward, the boundary below it becomes more prominent, making the hollows appear deeper.

However, aging isn't the only factor. Under-eye hollows are common even among younger individuals. This can be due to genetic factors or congenital anatomical structures. A congenitally weak orbital septum or a ligament structure that makes fat protrusion more likely can accentuate hollowness. Lifestyle habits also play a role. Lack of sleep, stress, swelling from excessive salt intake, and habitual eye rubbing can weaken the delicate tissues around the eyes, making them appear hollow. Rapid weight loss can also lead to a reduction in fat around the eyes, making hollowness more noticeable.

Daily Habits to Prevent Under-Eye Hollows

• Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep to improve blood circulation around the eyes. Regular sleep and stress management are crucial, especially as dark circles can sometimes be mistaken for hollowness.
• Reduce Salt and Alcohol: Excessive consumption of salty foods and alcohol can lead to severe puffiness, which exacerbates the appearance of hollows. Try to moderate your intake.
• Protect Your Skin from Aging: Diligently apply sunscreen daily to prevent skin aging and collagen damage. Hydrating products like hyaluronic acid serums can also help prevent dryness around the eyes.
• Avoid Eye Rubbing: Absolutely refrain from rubbing your eyes. This can damage the periorbital tissues and reduce their elasticity.

Cosmetic Products That Can Help Improve Under-Eye Hollows

While cosmetic products alone cannot completely eliminate under-eye hollows, they can significantly help improve skin elasticity and overall appearance. Here are some key ingredients to look for:

• Retinol: Effective in improving skin elasticity by promoting collagen synthesis. However, retinol can be irritating initially, so apply small amounts every few days, avoiding the sensitive eye and mouth areas if you have sensitive skin.
• Peptides: Known for their wrinkle-reducing and skin-regenerating effects.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Provides deep hydration, making the skin around the eyes smoother.
• Niacinamide: Helps suppress melanin production, which can aid in reducing the appearance of dark circles.

Professional Treatments: What Plastic Surgery and Dermatology Offer

If your under-eye hollowness is severe or accompanied by prominent under-eye bags, surgical or procedural interventions at a plastic surgery or dermatology clinic can be beneficial. However, as side effects can occur, it's essential to have a detailed consultation with a specialist to analyze your eye structure and create a customized treatment plan. Prices vary significantly by clinic.

Common Treatment Options:

• Under-Eye Fat Repositioning Surgery:

  What it is: Addresses bulging under-eye fat by redistributing the excess fat to the hollow areas through a conjunctival incision (incision made inside the eyelid).

  Who it's for: Recommended for younger individuals (30s-40s) with good skin elasticity.

  Benefits: Helps maintain a flat under-eye line and improves dark circles.

  Duration: Effects last for 5 years or more.

  Cost: Approximately 2,000,000 - 4,000,000 KRW.

• Lower Blepharoplasty:

  What it is: Suitable for individuals over 50 with significant skin laxity. Involves a skin incision to remove and reposition fat, and lift sagging muscles to improve under-eye hollows.

  Who it's for: Ideal for individuals over 50 with significant skin laxity.

  Duration: Effects last for 7 years or more.

  Considerations: Over-resection of skin can potentially lead to "scleral show" (whites of the eyes showing more) or ectropion (eversion of the eyelid).

  Cost: Approximately 3,000,000 - 6,000,000 KRW.

• Under-Eye Fillers:

  What it is: A procedure that replenishes hollow areas with hyaluronic acid fillers.

  Benefits: Provides immediate volume improvement.

  Duration: Effects typically last 6-12 months.

  Considerations: Be cautious of excessive injection, which can lead to nodule (lump) formation.

  Cost: Approximately 500,000 - 1,500,000 KRW.

• Autologous Fat Grafting:

  What it is: Involves harvesting fat from the abdomen or thighs, refining it, and injecting it into the hollow under-eye areas.

  Benefits: Creates natural-looking volume and is considered a semi-permanent procedure.

  Cost: Approximately 2,000,000 - 3,000,000 KRW.