Natural aging and poor lifestyle habits can significantly impact the under-eye area. Fine lines, wrinkles, bags, puffiness, and dark circles are common. Many people try to address the issue with topical treatments. However, serums and creams are not enough to address the issue entirely. Blepharoplasty is the most effective procedure to refresh the under-eyes. It rejuvenates the eyes and can leave you looking years younger. However, sometimes people walk away from surgery and notice shadows and darkness under the eyes. So, what causes dark circles after blepharoplasty? Below you will find helpful information on how to ensure your surgical results meet your expectations.
What Causes Dark Circles After Blepharoplasty?
Dark circles after eyelid surgery are common. In some cases, they are temporary and go away on their own. However, the issue may sometimes require additional dark-circle treatment. It is important to work with a skilled eyelid surgeon to ensure the results meet your expectations.
Swelling and Bruising After Surgery
The most common cause of dark circles after surgery is swelling and bruising. The tissue in the eyelid has many tiny blood vessels. When the blood vessels are disturbed, bruising occurs. This leaves the area looking blueish or purplish for a period after surgery. You may feel concerned, but the issue should gradually subside within two weeks after surgery.
Swelling can exacerbate the discoloration. To address the issue, focus on recovery and keep your head elevated. A cold compress is also beneficial for the first couple of days after surgery. Following your surgeon’s instructions can help ensure your surgical results.
Volume Loss After Surgery
Lower blepharoplasty involves removing the excess skin and fat under the eyes. Some patients may not need full-fat removal during surgery. Rather, the underlying tissues and fat need to be repositioned. This can leave your under-eye area looking smooth and refreshed. Unskilled surgeons may remove too much fat, leaving the under-eye area looking hollow and dark.
A skilled surgeon will assess your facial structure, skin quality, and aesthetic goals. From there, they can create a customized surgical plan. An experienced eyelid surgeon will create a plan that avoids removing too much fat from the lower eyelid. The results should leave your under-eye area smooth, firm, and bright. Dark circles and hollowness should not be present after lower blepharoplasty.
Post-Surgical Hyperpigmentation
While rare, some patients develop post-surgical hyperpigmentation in the under-eye area. Inflammation is a known trigger for melanin production in the skin. Surgical trauma triggers an inflammatory response as the body heals. For some people, this can trigger darkening of the skin under the eyes. Those with darker skin are especially vulnerable to this risk.
Post-surgical hyperpigmentation often develops after swelling and bruising have subsided. This is around the one- to two-week mark after surgery. Sun exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation. Protect your skin by using SPF daily. This is necessary even if you do not go outdoors.
When to Seek Treatment for Dark Circles After Blepharoplasty
In many cases, dark circles resolve on their own after surgery. This is usually after one to two weeks. However, there are scenarios where dark circles do not resolve on their own. In these cases, you should consult with a skilled eyelid surgeon for guidance.
If darkness or discoloration persists three months after surgery, it is important to consult with a surgical professional. There is likely a cause outside of normal post-surgical swelling and bruising. It may be hollowness from too much fat removal or hyperpigmentation triggered by inflammation. In some cases, it may also be a structural concern that requires treatment. A skilled, experienced surgeon can assess the issue and determine the appropriate course of action.
Dark Circle Treatment Options
The right treatment for you depends on the cause of your dark circles. Several effective treatment options can help you restore the look of your under-eyes after surgery. Dermal fillers are a common treatment option. They restore hollowness and volume loss, giving your undereyes a more natural look.
Cosmetic skin treatments are also beneficial. This may include laser treatment, prescription medications, or topical treatments. It is important to work with an oculoplastics surgeon who understands the issue. Dark circles that persist after blepharoplasty require careful planning and care.
Leading Eyelid Surgeon
Dark circles can impact your appearance and your self-confidence. If you want to address your dark circles, contact the team at Jeffrey Joseph Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation!