Eye Rejuvenation
It is often said that the eyes are the window to the soul, the most expressive part of the face that draws attention first. The eyes can also be one of the first places on the face where signs of the natural aging process are most apparent. Fine lines and wrinkles can develop around the eye, skin laxity can increase resulting in drooping eyelids or hooding, dark circles and puffiness can develop in the under-eye area, and a decrease in collagen production can result in volume loss and hollowing under the eyes. All of these conditions can result in a tired and aged appearance, which can feel distressing for many people. For a long time, it was a common belief that the only way to address these issues was to get a surgical procedure, such as eyelid surgery, in order to smooth out wrinkles and tighten the skin. However, there are many safe and effective non-surgical options available at board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green’s Upper East Side New York City dermatology office.
Full eye rejuvenation is possible with a combination of different non-surgical cosmetic procedures available at Dr. Green’s dermatology practice. For dynamic wrinkles that form around the eye, Botox is the treatment of choice to smooth out fine lines and prevent them from developing further. For contouring and replacing lost volume under the eyes, hyaluronic acid dermal fillers, such as Restylane or Juvederm are very effective when injected into the tear trough. To tighten the skin of the upper eyelid or lower eyelid, Thermage works to boost collagen production for skin renewal. Dark circles and under-eye bags caused by pigmentation are best addressed with Fraxel laser resurfacing, microneedling, or chemical peels. When you have your consultation with Dr. Green, she will examine the treatment area and listen to your aesthetic goals to determine the treatment, or series of treatments, that will be best to fully rejuvenate your eyes.
Dr. Michele Green is an expert board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience treating some of the most discerning men and women from around the world in her private dermatology office, located in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan. Well-versed in a wide range of non-invasive cosmetic procedures including Botox, dermal fillers, laser resurfacing treatments, chemical peels, microneedling, and more, Dr. Green is well known for providing patients with their ideal natural-looking, long-lasting results. Dr. Green is often recognized for her high patient satisfaction and is consistently voted as one of the best healthcare providers in New York City by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors.
Before and after 1 syringe of Restylane in Tear Troughs (under eyes) and nasolabial folds
What is eye rejuvenation?
Eye rejuvenation is the term for any cosmetic procedure or series of cosmetic procedures with the intent of giving the eyes a brighter, more youthful appearance. The natural aging process can wreak havoc on the eyes, from the formation of fine lines and wrinkles such as crow’s feet, the development of hollows under the eyes, the appearance of dark eye circles, and sagging eyelid skin, which can lead to a worn out look. When looking to address the delicate skin around the eyes, it is important to seek treatment from an expert dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, who can determine the procedures that will be safe and effective for around the eyes. Eye rejuvenation at an expert dermatologist’s office can reverse signs of aging by tightening the skin around the eyes, smoothing out wrinkles, restoring lost volume, and boosting collagen production. Each patient may require different treatments for full eye rejuvenation, which is why Dr. Green is very deliberate in her individualized treatment plans.
How to rejuvenate the eye area
There are many treatment options for rejuvenating the eye area, many of which can be combined to reverse signs of aging and create a naturally youthful appearance. The best way to start is to create an appointment with the experienced dermatologist, Dr. Green, in order to discuss your treatment goals and to give Dr. Green the opportunity to access the treatment area. Depending on your specific needs, Dr. Green may recommend a combination of treatments, such as Botox to smooth dynamic wrinkles, dermal fillers to contour the face and restore lost volume, Thermage to tighten the skin, Fraxel laser resurfacing to promote cell turnover and collagen production, chemical peels to rejuvenate the delicate eye area and treat discoloration, and eye creams to combat further signs of the natural aging process.
What are the non-surgical under-eye treatment options?
Patients may believe that eye rejuvenation involves going under the knife, but in reality, there are many non-surgical treatment options available to treat the under-eye area. A surgical brow lift or eyelid surgery, known as a Blepharoplasty, can be helpful to address loose skin on the upper or lower eyelid, puffiness, or droopiness, however, there are many potential side effects that can occur as a result of surgery. Additionally, while surgical options are permanent, the cost is often much higher than non-surgical procedures. Luckily, these conditions can all be addressed non-surgically as well, with skin tightening treatment such as Thermage, or a non-surgical brow lift, which can be completed with a combination of treatments, such as laser treatments and dermal filler. Other non-surgical treatment options for addressing concerns around the eyes include Botox, chemical peels, microneedling, eye creams, and laser resurfacing.
Botox for dynamic wrinkles
When it comes to treating dynamic wrinkles, such as crow’s feet at the corner of the eyes, Botox is an ideal solution. Dynamic wrinkles form as a result of repeated contraction of facial muscles that occur as a result of making expressions such as smiling, laughing, or frowning. When we’re young, wrinkles that form while making expressions will fade when the face is at rest. But as we age, collagen and elastin production decreases in the body and dynamic wrinkles set in, visible even when the face is at rest. At the outer corner of the eyes, crow’s feet can form as a result of squinting, smiling, or laughing and can be a telltale sign of aging. Luckily, neuromodulators, such as Botox or Dysport, can eliminate the appearance of these fine lines around the eyes.
Botox is an injectable neuromodulator treatment that was FDA approved for cosmetic use in 2002. The treatment works to essentially freeze the muscles at the injection site – blocking the neurotransmitters so that the muscle will no longer contract. Consequently, the muscles in the treatment area relax and the dynamic wrinkles will disappear, resulting in smoother, more youthful-looking skin around the eyes. Botox is a safe and effective treatment that gets rid of wrinkles without the need for any downtime. While the treatment is temporary – lasting for 3-6 months – patients can receive the procedure several times annually in order to maintain the effects of the treatment.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are an effective treatment to restore lost volume under the eyes and boost production of collagen for a more youthful appearance. As we age, production of collagen and elastin, the proteins that give the skin structure, begins to decrease, which can lead to a volume loss and a hollow appearance in the face and under the eyes. When hollows appear under the eyes, shadows can form, leading to the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. Dermal fillers work to restore lost volume to the tear trough area, which eliminates the dark circles under the eyes. Dermal fillers also work to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles at the injection site.
There are many different types of dermal fillers that each use a different active ingredient to add volume to the treatment area, however, for the delicate eye area, it is best to use a hyaluronic acid filler from the Juvederm or Restylane family of fillers. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring component of the skin and fillers comprised of a synthetic version of hyaluronic acid work to instantly plump the skin and boost collagen production over time. The procedure is quick and painless and requires no downtime following treatment, meaning patients can immediately return to their regularly scheduled activities. The effects of hyaluronic acid fillers can remain visible for nine months up to a year but patients can return annually to receive a touch up for continued results.
Thermage for skin tightening
Thermage treatment uses radiofrequency energy to tighten sagging skin on the upper eyelid and lower eyelid. As production of structural proteins collagen and elastin decrease over time, the skin around the eyes can become loose and droopy. This can result in a condition known as “hooding,” which is when excess skin on the upper eyelid creates a sort of hood over the eye. Hooding can contribute to a tired appearance and lax skin around the eyes can be one of the telltale signs of aging. Luckily, Thermage can reverse these signs of aging by addressing skin laxity on the upper and lower eyelids for a non-surgical brow lift. When the tip of the Thermage applicator is applied to the treatment area, the device works to heat the lower layers of skin while keeping the outer layers cool and comfortable. This heat tightens the skin and stimulates the body’s natural healing response, which, in turn, increases the production of collagen over time. The result is firmer, smoother, more youthful looking skin and eyes that appear to be more open. The results of Thermage can be seen for up to two years and Thermage can be paired with other treatment options, such as Botox and dermal fillers.
Laser Resurfacing
For patients who are dealing with fine lines and wrinkles, discoloration under the eyes, or uneven skin texture, laser resurfacing may be the best treatment option. Fractional lasers work to improve skin tone, texture, and coloration for a revitalized look. Dr. Green often uses the eMatrix fractional laser to address concerns around the delicate eye area, as the eMatrix applicator has a special tip for use in sensitive areas. The eMatrix laser works via bi-polar radio frequency energy to heat up the inner layers of the dermis. As a result, the targeted heating of the skin causes a controlled injury, which triggers the body’s natural healing response, boosting collagen and elastin production in the area. When used in the under-eye area, the eMatrix laser works to eliminate fine lines and creases, reduce pigmentation that is causing dark circles, and improves the skin texture for brighter skin.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are another skin resurfacing treatment that can work to decrease the appearance of dark circles under the eyes, exfoliate the skin, boost collagen production, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Chemical peels work via the application of a chemical solution that creates a controlled injury on the surface of the skin, leading to exfoliation of dead skin cells and other debris. The treatment has a wide range of functions and can be used in a variety of depths. For the under eye area, Dr. Green typically uses a Mesopeel, which is a series of chemical peels specifically designed for delicate areas such as the under-eye area. The Mesopeel is best for treating hyperpigmentation, such as the discoloration that occurs when you see dark circles under your eyes. Mesopeels are composed of azelaic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, resorcinol, and physic acid, and, when applied to the under eye, help to eliminate dark circles, decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone and texture, and boost collagen production. Patients should be advised to always wear sunscreen of at least SPF 30 when going outside after undergoing a chemical peel to prevent further damage to the skin.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a process of skin rejuvenation in which tiny microinjuries are created on the surface of the skin to decrease discoloration under the eyes, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The treatment is done with the use of an applicator with tiny, surgical grade needles that pierce the skin. When treating the delicate eye area, Dr. Green will typically use needles that do not pierce as deeply. When the needles pierce the skin, they trigger the body’s natural healing process, which increases production of collagen in the area to revitalize the skin. Often, Dr. Green will pair microneedling treatment with platelet rich plasma treatment, which is when cytokines and growth factors from the patient’s own blood is used to enhance the effects of the microneedling treatment.
Eye Creams and skincare products
Eye creams and other skincare products are an essential part of keeping the signs of aging at bay and promoting healthier skin around the eyes. Retinol-based eye creams are helpful in brightening the skin under the eye, boosting collagen production, and smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. As the under-eye area is so delicate, it is important to choose the right product for under the eyes, which is why it is best to begin by consulting with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green. Dr. Green is an expert in determining the best skincare products for her patients’ needs and even has her own products at her proprietary MGSKINLABs. To restore the delicate tissue under the eyes and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, Dr. Green recommends MGSKINLAB’s Eye Cream for Line and Wrinkle Repair. The product contains retinol and retinol palmitate (Vitamin A) to revitalize the eye and maintain and youthful appearance. To lessen the appearance of dark circles and puffiness, Dr. Green may also recommend the Intensive Eye Repair Cooling Gel to tighten and smooth the skin around the eyes.
If you are looking for over the counter eye creams and skincare products, it is best to look for the following ingredients:
- Caffeine to reduce the appearance of discoloration, puffiness, and creases
- Retinol to boost collagen production and help to smooth out the skin
- Niacinamide to brighten the skin
- Hyaluronic acid to promote hydration of the skin and improve skin texture
- Vitamin K to improve circulation
44 year old female, Botox for wrinkles around eyes
Can eye cream damage the eyes?
The area around the eyes is very sensitive, with delicate skin more prone to damage. For that reason, it is very important to choose eye creams that are made specifically for the under-eye area. The best way to know if an eye cream is safe and effective is to consult with an experienced dermatologist, such as Dr. Green. Furthermore, you can look for ingredients that are good for around the eyes, such as caffeine, retinols, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin K. It is best to avoid products that contain parabens, paraffin, perfumes, or sodium laurel sulfate as they ingredients can irritate the eyes.
Do eye injections really work?
Patients wondering about the effectiveness of dermal fillers for eye rejuvenation can be assured that they really work! When hollows under the eyes create the appearance of dark shadows, dermal fillers are the ideal treatment to restore lost volume and boost collagen production. By adding filler to the tear trough, the skin becomes plumper and smoother, filling in hollows for a more youthful look. Hyaluronic acid fillers with smaller particles are particularly well suited for the delicate under-eye area. Dermal fillers can last for up to a year under the eye and treatment can be repeated annually for continued results.
Is one syringe of Restylane enough for under eyes?
Restylane is a family of hyaluronic acid fillers that can be used on many areas of the face. The type of Restylane filler and number of syringes used depends on the treatment area and the extent of the volume loss or depth of the fine lines and wrinkles. For the delicate under-eye area, Restylane filler with a smaller particle size is best. It is also important not to overfill the under eye area, because that can cause the area to look puffy. That is why Dr. Green opts for a “less-is-more” approach to filler, in order to produce a naturally youthful look. When it comes to under the eye, one syringe of Restylane is typically appropriate to restore lost volume and eliminate creases.
How much does eye rejuvenation cost?
Patients often ask, how much is eye rejuvenation treatment, and the answer is: it depends. There are many factors that go into determining the price of the skin rejuvenation treatment around the eyes, including geographic location, the type of institution at which you are receiving treatment, and your unique treatment plan. When it comes to finding the right place to receive treatment, it is best to seek out an expert, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green. While places such as MedSpas will offer similar services and specials to subscribers for less, treatments are safer and often more effective when getting cosmetic procedures at a dermatology office. The cost of treatment also depends on each individual patient’s treatment plan. When you have your initial consultation with Dr. Green, you will discuss your aesthetic goals and unique needs and Dr. Green will recommend the treatment or series of treatments that will work best for you. After your consultation, Dr. Green’s office will be able to provide you with a closer estimate of the full cost of the treatment.
How to rejuvenate eyes naturally
For patients who are looking to rejuvenate the eyes at home, there are several ways help improve the appearance of the eyes with small lifestyle shifts. For some patients, the formation of under eye bags or creases under the eye is a result of not enough sleep. As such, making sure you get enough sleep – typically 7-8 hours a night – is imperative for the eyes to look their best. Puffiness can arise as a result of a high sodium diet or allergies, so cutting sodium intake, staying hydrated, and making sure you are taking allergy medication can help to decrease swelling under the eye.
There are also at home remedies that can help, such as the use of tea bags, frozen coffee cubes, or tap massages. Caffeine is a product that is found in many eye creams because it helps to narrow the blood vessels to decrease swelling and pigmentation. You can apply caffeine to the eyes at home through the use of tea bags or coffee ice cubes. For tea bags, steep two bags of black or green tea for 2-4 minutes in boiling water and then let them cool. Once they have reached room temperature, place them over your closed eyes for up to 15 minutes. Coffee ice cubes can be used to the same effect. Freeze brewed coffee in an ice cube tray and then rub the cubes around your eyes for several minutes. Tap massages, which involve gently tapping your finger around your eyes, can help with circulation and reduce inflammation. It is important to note that any at home remedy will not be as effective as a cosmetic procedure in rejuvenating the eyes.
Do eye exercises help droopy eyelids?
There are some exercises that can be done at home that can help to strengthen the muscles around the eye and reduce the appearance of a droopy eyelid. The upper eyelid connects with the muscle that works to raise and lower your eyelid. Should the muscle weaken or become damaged, the upper eyelid can droop – a condition known as belpharoptosis. According to the National Stroke Association, performing exercises can help to strengthen the muscle and reduce drooping. One such exercise is to gently put a finger under your eyebrow as you raise them up and then open and close your eye like that several times. The exercise should be repeated every hour for the best results. While exercises can have some effect, they will not be as effective as receiving a cosmetic procedure, such as Thermage for skin tightening or a surgical eye lift.
How much is blepharoplasty in one eye?
While a surgical blepharoplasty is a permanent solution to drooping eyelids, the procedure can have significant side effects and is very expensive. The precise cost of the surgical procedure depends largely on your geographic location and the extent of the skin laxity of the treatment area, as well as whether you are getting both the upper eyelid and lower eyelid treated. Typically, in New York City, the price can range from $4,500 to $6,000 depending on those factors.
Restylane one syringe under eyes
Are eye wrinkles reversible?
While eye wrinkles are a distressing sign of the natural aging process, there are many cosmetic procedures available to erase signs of fine lines and wrinkles around the eye. For dynamic wrinkles, Botox or Dysport can be used to smooth the skin. Creases in the under-eye area can be erased with dermal filler injected into the tear trough. Laser treatments such as Thermage can be used to tighten the skin and boost collagen production, which works to reduce the appearance of wrinkles around the eyes. When you have your initial consultation with Dr. Green, you will discuss your goals for the treatment and Dr. Green will determine the treatments that will work best to meet your needs.
How to get started with eye rejuvenation today
An aging eye area can make us look exhausted or cause us to appear much older than we actually are. When it comes to rejuvenating the appearance of the eyes, it is important to choose a provider with the necessary expertise and experience to personalize your treatment approach and select the procedures that will deliver the best cosmetic results. Board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green in New York City, is a leader in the field with over 25 years of experience providing patients from around the globe with their ideal revitalizing results. Dr. Green offers a wide range of non-invasive cosmetic treatment options designed to address the various potential aging concerns that patients might have. When you consult with Dr. Green, you will have the opportunity to discuss with her in-depth regarding the specific signs of aging that you would like to target, as well as your overall aesthetic goals. Dr. Green will work with you to customize your treatment protocol so that it is personalized to meet your needs and leaves you looking and feeling like the best version of yourself.
As an artful injector, Dr. Green’s less-is-more approach to dermal fillers helps patients to restore lost volume under the eyes and eliminate fine lines, creases, and the appearance of a shadow. Pigmentation creating dark circles under the eye can be dispelled with chemical peels, microneedling, and laser resurfacing. To tighten the skin, Thermage laser treatment is an ideal option and can be paired with any of the treatments listed above. Botox can also help with dynamic wrinkles that etch into the skin over time. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green in New York City and get started with creating your individualized eye rejuvenation treatment plan, please call 212-535-3088 or contact us online to book an appointment today.