Stopping the hands of time often requires an intervention of some sort, be it a surgical or a nonsurgical procedure. With so many different age-reversing options available these days, cost, downtime and your threshold for discomfort are all determining factors in which path you should take to correct your concerns. “In younger patients, less invasive procedures are a nice alternative because often there’s not as much of a need for correction,” says Orange County, CA, facial plastic surgeon Cory Yeh, MD. Here, we break down the best ways to tackle common signs of aging, both with traditional surgery and nonsurgical treatments.
1. Collagen-Stimulating Skin Care: Stengthens the skin
“When eye concerns include skin issues, like discoloration and crepiness, I always recommend skin care first to encourage collagen stimulation,” says Pasadena, CA, plastic surgeon John E. Gross, MD. Since there are so many products available, it’s important to find those (in a hydrating formula) that contain ingredients like retinol, vitamin C and potent antioxidants to help strengthen the skin and prompt new collagen to be made.
2. At-Home Tools: Erases fine lines, wrinkles and slight bags
Although doctor-administered procedures and treatments have the best track record when it comes to fighting the signs of aging around the eyes, some light- and laser-based at-home beauty devices may help to minimally lessen fine lines and wrinkles and diminish bags, when used on a regular basis. Some of the newer introductions even feature special controls so that you can’t burn the skin or over treat any one area.
3. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers and Fat Transfer: Addresses volume loss and hollows
“When it comes to using fillers in the under-eye area, it’s important to understand that they have a role—mainly for camouflaging concerns like hollows. Fillers and fat may not address underlying problems, but they can make the eyes look better when done right,” says Dr. Yeh. Hyaluronic acid injectables, particularly Restylane and Juvéderm, as well as fat, give the most natural looking result. “Fillers work great for contour issues, but they need to be done by someone who understands the anatomy of the orbital area and the proper techniques of injecting to avoid lumps and bumps,” explains Dr. John Gross.