If you have dark circles or sagging skin under your eyes, there are ways to improve them without plastic surgery. If you’ve seen the videos circulating on social media of a laser wrinkling the under-eye area, you have to admit that this tightening approach looks promising. As if by magic, the skin wrinkles and seemingly shrinks. But is the risk worth the reward? And what is the dangers; We spoke to top cosmetic eye surgeons to get their expert opinions on this trendy procedure. See what they had to say about the benefits, risks and what you can expect from an under eye laser treatment.
Featured Experts
- David Schlessinger, MD is board certified as an ophthalmic plastic surgeon in Woodbury, NY
- Robert Schwarcz, MD is board certified as an ophthalmic plastic surgeon in New York
What does an under eye laser treatment do?
Woodbury, NY ophthalmic plastic surgeon David Schlessinger, MD says for the right candidate, under eye lasers can be a significant non-surgical rejuvenation tool: “Under eye laser treatment is very effective in tightening the skin , which can minimize bags and wrinkles under the eyes. It is also effective in removing sun-related pigmentation.’
“Lasers effectively treat texture problems and discoloration under the eye,” adds New York City ophthalmic plastic surgeon Robert Schwarcz, MD. “This includes fine lines, wrinkles, looser skin and dark circles.” The process of heating the top layer of skin will cause it to contract and tighten, resulting in a smoother appearance.
What kind of laser treatments work best under the eyes?
“Ablative lasers selectively burn the top layer of skin, causing it to contract and resurface for smoother, tighter skin,” explains Dr. Schwarcz. “Both ablative and non-ablative lasers can lighten dark areas and even out the skin tone of the lower eyelid.”
Is laser treatment safe for under eyes?
Dr. Schlessinger says, yes, they are safe when performed by a qualified professional. “However, overly aggressive laser use can cause lower lid retraction and ectropion, which is the turning of the eyelid outward,” he says. “In addition, there is a risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially if the newly treated skin is exposed to UV radiation.”
Dr. Schwarcz adds, “The risks are minimal when you see a board-certified surgeon who is specifically trained to treat problems around the eye area. Following the pre- and post-procedure instructions provided by your doctor will further minimize the risks. Potential risks include burns leading to scarring, outward turning of the lower eyelid and skin discoloration.’
How many sessions are needed?
“The gold standard for lower eyelid laser treatment is the fractionated CO2 laser, which is usually done in a single session,” says Dr. Schlessinger. “Other lasers, such as Clear + Brilliant or Moxi, have less downtime but generally require three to four sessions.”
“For a less invasive approach, I use Moxi or Clear + Brilliant, which usually require three to four treatments spaced a month apart,” adds Dr. Schwarcz. “For a more definitive approach, I use fractionated CO2 laser therapy, often in conjunction with lower blepharoplasty surgery. The laser is usually performed once, with up to a week of downtime, including redness and peeling.’
While the procedure is generally safe, it is essential to consult a licensed surgeon to minimize risks, doctors say. Depending on the type of laser and the specific treatment plan, results can last from several months to years.
