Do you often look in the mirror and feel like you appear tired or older than you are? Dark circles under the eyes are a common concern for many individuals and can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, aging, lifestyle choices, and even allergies. These dark, shadowy areas can significantly affect your self-confidence and the way others perceive you. For both men and women, looking alert and refreshed is crucial for making excellent first impressions and maintaining a youthful appearance.
What causes dark circles under the eyes?
Dark circles can result from several factors such as genetics, aging, lifestyle choices, allergies, and lack of sleep. These causes lead to pigmentation, thinning skin, and the prominence of blood vessels under the eyes.
Can dark circles affect other areas of my face?
Dark circles can create an overall tired and aged appearance, impacting the harmony of your facial features. They often coexist with other concerns like hollowness under the eyes, puffiness, or fine lines, which can exacerbate the issue. The delicate skin around the eyes is particularly prone to showing signs of fatigue and aging, making it essential to address dark circles for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
How can I correct dark circles?
Treating dark circles can be effectively accomplished with a procedure known as nanofat grafting. This minimally invasive treatment involves using your own fat, processed into a fine consistency, to rejuvenate the under-eye area. Nanofat is rich in regenerative cells, which help to improve skin quality, texture, and pigmentation. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and recovery time is up to two weeks, with most patients resuming their normal activities within a few days. The results are natural-looking and long-lasting, giving you a refreshed and youthful appearance.
Nanofat grafting can be combined with lasers, IPL, chemical peels, topical agents, microneedling, energy-based treatments, or a lower blepharoplasty for optimal results.
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Gallus is a board certified plastic surgeon and Castle Connolly Top Doctor. She will partner with you to develop a tailored surgical plan that prioritizes your safety and results.
Dr. Chao’s elite facial plastic surgery training and remarkable attention to detail offers patients safe, natural-looking results. She will work closely with you to understand your goals and concerns to bring your aesthetic vision to life.
How does nanofat differ from fat transfer or fillers to the under-eye area?
Nanofat is not a filler and does not volumize the under-eye area, as the fat cells are filtered out during the processing. Instead, nanofat is a regenerative treatment that utilizes stem cells obtained from the fat tissue. These stem cells help your own tissues regenerate, effectively addressing fine lines, crepey skin, and dark circles. Unlike traditional fat transfer or fillers, which primarily add volume, nanofat focuses on rejuvenating and improving the quality of the skin in the treated area.
Is nanofat grafting better than fillers for dark circles?
Nanofat grafting focuses on regenerating and improving skin quality rather than adding volume like traditional fillers. It uses stem cells to address fine lines, crepey skin, and pigmentation, offering a more comprehensive rejuvenation.
“I recently had surgery at Restore… I had several other consultations and none compared to Restore SD. There was no hard sales pitch or recommendation to have a procedure done that was more than what was needed. At Restore the office staff is friendly, patient and knowledgeable. The surgical staff was beyond wonderful. This wasn’t my first experience with plastic surgery and by far Restore has been the best.”
—Google Review for Restore SD Plastic Surgery
What if my dark circles are not the only issue?
If you have additional concerns such as hollowness or fine lines around the eyes, combining nanofat grafting with other treatments like dermal fillers or skin resurfacing can yield optimal results. A comprehensive approach to under-eye rejuvenation can enhance the overall appearance and provide a more harmonious and youthful look. Maintaining the results with a tailored skincare regimen and regular follow-ups will help you look your best long after the procedure.
Do dark circles go away with sleep?
While getting adequate sleep can reduce the appearance of dark circles caused by fatigue, it may not completely eliminate them if other factors like genetics or aging are involved.
How long does it take to see results from nanofat grafting?
Most patients notice an improvement in the appearance of their dark circles within a few weeks, with full results typically visible after a few months as the skin continues to regenerate.
Are there any side effects of nanofat grafting?
As with any procedure, there can be some minor side effects such as swelling, bruising, and redness. However, these are usually temporary and subside within a few days to weeks.
Choose Restore SD Plastic Surgery for rested, refreshed undereyesAt Restore SD Plastic Surgery, we provide personalized care from the initial consultation through the treatment process. Dr. Katerina Gallus and Dr. Janet Chao will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique facial features, aesthetic goals, and budget. Our dedicated team ensures that you receive the highest standard of care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Call 858-224-2281 or contact us online to book your consultation today.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Katerina Gallus — Updated on Feb 5, 2025
