Sunken Eyes: Causes & Best Treatments

What are sunken eyes?

The peri-ocular area is the first part of the face to start to show signs of ageing. And sunken eyes are just another part of this process.

The appearance of sunken eyes can vary from person to person, but it usually means that the delicate skin under the eyes, which loses elasticity and collagen as we get older, appears dark, sunken and hollow.

Sunken eyes give the face an overall tired or fatigued look. The cheekbones and eye socket bones recede over time, resulting in a loss of bony support for the skin and adding to the sunken appearance of the eyes.

Sunken eyes can also be caused by genetics, dehydration, a lack of sleep and, occasionally, they may be the sign of a medical condition.

Sunken eyes are also sometimes referred to as ‘tear trough hollows’ or ‘under-eye hollows.’

How do you fix sunken eyes?

There are several ways to help ease sunken eyes, with home remedies including placing moist teabags, cucumbers or cold compresses on the eyes. The effectiveness varies from person to person and largely depends on the root cause of the sunken eyes. Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, increasing water consumption and getting more sleep, can help. Making these changes would also help to boost your overall health.

People who are experiencing sunken eyes due to ageing can benefit from both major and minor surgical treatments available, including dermal fillers, anti-ageing injectables and eyelid reduction (blepharoplasty). These treatments are all carried out by our expert surgeons here at the Cadogan Clinic.

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Founded in 2004 by world renowned plastic surgeon Mr Bryan Mayou, we now work with over 100 leading consultants and successfully treat over 20,000 patients each year. We have been winning industry awards since inception.

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How can I plump under my eyes?

Dermal fillers involve an injection of a naturally-occuring substance known as hyaluronic acid into the tissue below the eye. This allows the skin to lock in moisture, leaving the eye area looking fuller, smoother and more youthful.

What foods help sunken eyes?

Non-Surgical

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers add volume, definition, and structure to the lips, cheeks, jaw, and more.

Dark green, leafy vegetables can help to lessen the appearance of sunken eyes. These include kale, spinach, broccoli and sprouts. Cutting caffeine intake is also recommended.

How do allergies affect sunken eyes?

Allergies can affect the periocular skin in different ways. Allergy to topical treatments, hay fever, eye disease or eye drops will cause increased dilation of the blood vessels within the eyelids. This underneath the thin periocular skin will cause prominence of the blood vessels and thus the appearance of dark circles. Secondly, allergies result in a tendency to constantly rub the eyes, this can cause thickening and darkening of the periocular region.

Words from our clients:

“I have used Dr Mayou for years as my children’s dermatologist and was very pleased to discover she could take care of me as well. She has been extremely helpful, checking for melanoma and other skin issues as well as more cosmetic concerns. I have found her to be sensible and practical with a lovely manner and trust she is looking after the whole picture of my skins health and looks.”

Jess K

"Everything was brilliant staff were incredibly friendly exact amount of info was given. Have already recommended this company to friends and family."

Clare Brooks

“Wonderful service, knowledgeable staff, friendly service and comfortable ambience - well run. I will use you again in the future.“

Sarah Tylor

"There is nothing that I feel could be improved at Cadogan Clinic. I was treated and looked after very well the place was very clean. Perfect. Thank you."

Emma Grant

"The treatment was for my daughter and the aesthetic practitioner couldn't have been more helpful and informative all through the course of treatment, it was a great treatment with a brilliant outcome. The whole experience was very professional and any worries we went in with were soon taken away after the team greeted us and treated us."

Jessica Yates

How do I prevent sunken eyes?

Whilst dark circles are difficult to prevent, lifestyle contributors such as dehydration (excess alcohol and salt) and sleep deprivation can accentuate the appearance however the permanent discolouration is very difficult to prevent.

The skin around our eyes is also extremely delicate and very vulnerable to sun damage. Long exposure to UV rays without protection will cause sun damage that makes skin texture become droopy, with the uneven texture causing a shadow or dark circle appearance under the eyes. Make sure to apply sunscreen specifically designed for the face. Staying diligent about sunscreen throughout your life will help to delay the ageing process around the eyes. Wearing sunglasses with appropriate UV filter and SPF during the year will not only help to delay the ageing process around the eyes but also help to protect the eyes from developing early cataracts.

Genetics, lifestyle and environmental factors such as pollution, UV exposure, diet, exercise and smoking can all contribute to the way and speed in which we age and the extent of deep set tear troughs. Hydration is a key factor in minimizing sunken eyes. In fact, hydration affects nearly every process and appearance in our bodies.

What is the best filler for sunken eyes?

Here at the Cadogan Clinic, we use Juvederm in our treatments. Juvederm is made primarily from natural substances, such as hyaluronic acid – which are found in humans. This means a more natural, fuller result is possible when using Juvederm, when compared to some other fillers found on the market.

Since Juvederm is composed of natural substances, the effects are not permanent. This means that if the desired results are no longer required, the substance will be absorbed by the body naturally over a long period of time. Because the Juvederm gradually reduces its appearance, the fillers are a popular and common choice of procedure for patients that have not received any cosmetic treatment before. Juvederm can also be used on the mouth and lip area and the hands.

Dermal fillers are extremely safe when delivered by a trained medical practitioner. Whilst extremely rare, there are some risks. These risks will be fully discussed at your consultation prior to your consent.

Treatments mentioned in this article

Tear trough filler uses dermal filler to reawaken tired or sunken looking under-eyes.

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Injectables

Tear Trough Filler

Tear trough filler uses dermal filler to reawaken tired or sunken looking under-eyes.

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