Sunken eyes treatment, Marylebone, London

Maintaining the youthful vitality of our eyes becomes an uphill battle with age, primarily because the skin surrounding them is the thinnest on our body. This delicate area becomes even thinner as we age, making it increasingly vulnerable to changes. Hollow or sunken eyes, a common concern as we get older, manifest through dark, hollow-looking under-eye areas, enlarged eye sockets, and eyes that seem deeply set. While genetics play a role for some, giving them a naturally sunken appearance from a young age, for many others, this trait develops and intensifies with time. Let’s delve into what causes sunken eyes, how aging affects this delicate area, and the non-surgical modalities available for restoration.

What are hollow eyes?

Hollow or sunken eyes are characterised by under-eye skin that takes on a darkened and recessed appearance, accompanied by the appearance of enlarged eye sockets. For some individuals, this is a genetic trait present from a young age, but for others, this condition can also emerge and progressively deepen as we age due to progressive bone resorption.

Why do my eyes look sunken?

For some, with age, the tear trough deepens, leading to a hollowed look, while others may develop puffy eye bags or pronounced bulges, as the under-eye fat migrates from its original location.

Eyes become more sunken with age because of two factors: the loss of periorbital fat—that’s the fat that lies beneath the skin in the eye area—and bone resorption.

Fat loss

The periorbital fat pads beneath the skin of the eye area are particularly vulnerable to the aging process. Often starting in one’s early 40s, these fat pads, crucial for maintaining facial volume, begin to shrink. The face is structured with about 20 such pads, and those under the eyes are among the earliest to dwindle. As they do, the skin, which once stretched over a fuller area, becomes looser and more prone to sagging and folding, accentuating the sunken-eye effect.

Bone resorption

From the temples to the jawline, the bone structure that once supported the skin’s surface recedes. The eye sockets expand with time, contrubuting to the fact that with age, the eye area genuinely does become more hollow than in one’s youth.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Sunken and Hollow Under-Eyes

Tear Trough Fillers

Tear trough fillers containing hyaluronic acid are a quick and highly effective way to restore lost volume under the eyes, often lifting and freshening the entire face as a result. By restoring lost volume in the tear trough zone and smoothing out the junction between the edge of the cheekbone and the hollow under-eye area, we can significantly reduce sunken hollows and dark shadows and make the whole area look brighter.

What can under-eye filler help (and not help) with?

Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers injected into the tear trough can help add volume to areas where volume has been lost. And as I have already mentioned, we lose volume as we age which can lead to hollowing under the eyes that, in turn, creates shadows. Without the hollowing, the eyes look immediately brighter and less tired.

So, under-eye fillers are an effective option for patients with tear trough hollows and under-eye wrinkles. They are not, however, helpful with swelling or for patients with larger bags under the eyes, and in fact, are more likely to worsen these issues. It’s also worth noting that while under-eye fillers can improve darkness under the eyes – this isn’t always the case. When the darkness is a result of excessive pigmentation, it will have no impact. But if the darkness is caused by hollowing due to ageing or genetics, under-eye filler will add volume, brightening the area without causing puffiness.

How long do fillers last in this area?

Most patients retain their results for 12-18 months, however precisely how long a tear trough treatment holds its effect is very individual. This depends on many factors, such as your age, skin type, lifestyle, and metabolism, as well as the filler used. It’s important to note that fillers can last much longer than anticipated in the eye area.

Sunken and hollow under-eyes don’t have to be a permanent fixture on your face. With a comprehensive understanding of the causes and the non-surgical treatments available, rejuvenating the appearance of your under-eyes is more accessible than ever. Whether through dermal fillers, skin boosters, topical treatments, or lifestyle changes, you can achieve a refreshed and youthful look that reflects your inner vitality.

If you’re concerned about tear trough hollows and want to learn more about your options, click here to book a consultation.