Conditions
Eyebags are swelling or bulging beneath the lower eyelids. They can make the under-eye area appear more tired or aged, and they often become more noticeable over time.
It helps to distinguish between two common concerns:
Many people experience a combination of both. Identifying the main contributing factors can help determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Over time, changes in the tissues supporting the eyelids can allow fat beneath the eyes to become more prominent, while reduced skin elasticity can make the area appear more noticeable.
As skin elasticity decreases with age, the delicate under-eye skin may become thinner and looser, which can make existing bags more noticeable.
Some people have a genetic tendency towards eyebags and may notice them from a relatively young age.
Fluid retention can contribute to temporary puffiness around the eyes. Factors such as higher salt intake, hormonal changes, crying and sleeping flat may make puffiness more noticeable.
Allergies can cause inflammation and swelling around the eyes, which may contribute to temporary under-eye puffiness.
Poor sleep may make under-eye puffiness more noticeable and can make existing eyebags appear more prominent.
If swelling appears suddenly, affects only one eye, or is accompanied by pain, redness or changes in vision, please seek medical attention promptly.
At Alpha Asia Aesthetics, Dr Jeanel Goh will assess the contributing factors, severity and condition of the under-eye area before recommending an appropriate treatment plan.
Non-surgical treatments may be considered for selected mild to moderate concerns, depending on the underlying cause. Treatment options may include:
RF Gold Microneedling combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to support collagen production and skin remodelling. When used around the eyes, it may help improve the firmness and appearance of loose under-eye skin, which can make mild eyebags less noticeable.
A course of treatments may be recommended depending on the condition of the skin and the individual’s treatment goals.
RF Lifting (FLX) uses radiofrequency energy to deliver controlled heat to the skin, supporting collagen remodelling and improving skin firmness over time. When appropriate for the eye area, it may help improve the appearance of fine lines and mild skin laxity around the eyes, with little to no downtime.
For more pronounced eyebags where prominent under-eye fat is a significant contributing factor, non-surgical treatments may have limitations. In such cases, Dr Jeanel can assess whether non-surgical treatment is appropriate or whether referral to a suitable specialist for surgical options should be considered.
High sodium intake can encourage fluid retention, which may make morning puffiness more noticeable.
Keeping your head raised while sleeping may help minimise fluid accumulation around the eyes overnight.
Allergies can contribute to swelling and may increase the urge to rub the delicate skin around your eyes.
Applying something cool around the eyes in the morning can temporarily reduce puffiness and make the area look less swollen.
The skin around the eyes is particularly delicate. Consistent sun protection can help protect skin quality and minimise the effects of long-term UV exposure.
There is no single treatment that is suitable for every type of eyebag. The right approach depends on what is contributing most to their appearance.
If skin laxity or mild under-eye looseness is a concern, treatments that support collagen production and skin firmness may be considered. If the under-eye skin is thin, crepey or lacking in skin quality, a skin booster may be more appropriate.
However, when prominent under-eye fat is the main cause of more pronounced eyebags, non-surgical treatments may have limitations. A consultation with Dr Jeanel allows the underlying cause to be assessed before deciding whether a non-surgical approach or specialist referral is more appropriate.
Eyebags can have different contributing factors, from temporary puffiness and skin laxity to prominent under-eye fat. Understanding what is causing the concern is the first step towards choosing an appropriate treatment approach.
Book a consultation with Dr Jeanel Goh at Alpha Asia Aesthetics to have your under-eye concerns assessed and explore your treatment options.
Some mild to moderate eyebags may be improved with non-surgical treatments, particularly when skin laxity or skin quality contributes to their appearance. More pronounced eyebags caused by significant fat bulging may require a surgical approach, which your doctor can discuss with you.
Staying adequately hydrated supports overall skin health and may help with dehydration-related puffiness, but drinking more water will not remove structural eyebags caused by factors such as prominent under-eye fat or skin laxity.
Downtime varies depending on the treatment. Some non-surgical treatments may involve temporary redness, swelling or bruising, while others may have little to no downtime. Dr Jeanel can advise you on what to expect based on the recommended treatment.
How long results last depends on the treatment, the underlying cause of the eyebags and individual factors. Where appropriate, maintenance treatments may be recommended to support the results over time.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or diagnosis. Results may vary. Please consult our doctor to assess your individual condition and suitability before undergoing any treatment.
