"Eyelid sagging, various causes, treatment with modern technologies."

Causes of problems or appearance changes requiring eyelid lift (blepharoplasty)

The skin around the eyes, especially the eyelids, is one of the thinnest and most sensitive parts of the body. Due to its unique structure, this area is exposed to various factors that can cause changes in appearance, sagging, and loosening of the eyelid skin. These changes not only affect a person’s beauty and appearance but can, in some cases, lead to functional problems such as reduced field of vision. Eyelid lift or blepharoplasty is one of the treatment methods used to address these issues. Below, we will explore the main causes of skin and appearance problems in the eyelids that require a lift:

Natural Aging Process

As people age, the skin naturally loses its elasticity. This change is particularly noticeable around the eyelids because the skin in this area is thinner and more sensitive.

Reduction in collagen and elastin production: As age increases, the production of these proteins decreases. Collagen is responsible for skin firmness, and elastin is responsible for skin flexibility. The reduction of these two proteins leads to sagging and loosening of the eyelid skin.
Sagging fat tissue: Fat under the skin gradually shrinks or shifts, which creates a drooping and tired appearance in the eyelids.
Weakening of eyelid muscles: The muscles responsible for holding up the eyelids weaken over time and cannot effectively support the excess skin.

Genetic and Hereditary Factors

Genetics plays an important role in determining the structure and characteristics of the skin. Some individuals are genetically predisposed to eyelid sagging or the formation of fatty bags under the eyes. If there is a family history of eyelid sagging, the likelihood of experiencing this problem at a younger age increases.

Neurological Factors and Systemic Diseases

Some neurological or systemic diseases can affect the muscles and tissues of the eyelids, leading to sagging. These include conditions like Myasthenia Gravis and facial nerve paralysis.

Sun Damage (Photoaging)

Continuous exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun causes the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin. This breakdown reduces the strength and flexibility of the eyelid skin, leading to sagging.

Effect on skin color: Sun exposure can cause dark spots (hyperpigmentation) around the eyes, giving the face a tired and aged appearance.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes, especially during menopause, can lead to thinning of the skin and reduced collagen production. These hormonal changes make the eyelid skin sag and loosen more quickly.

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

Environmental factors such as air pollution, smoking, and an unhealthy lifestyle can contribute to premature skin aging and eyelid sagging.

Stress and lack of sleep: Chronic stress and insufficient sleep can lead to fluid retention in the eyelids, worsening sagging and puffiness.
Poor nutrition: Lack of vitamins and nutrients, especially vitamins C and E, reduces collagen production, leading to faster skin sagging.

Weakness of Eyelid Muscles and Ptosis

Ptosis refers to the sagging of the upper eyelid, which may result from weakness or damage to the muscles responsible for holding the eyelid up. This condition can occur due to various reasons, including aging, nerve damage, or muscle diseases.

Congenital ptosis: Some individuals are born with weak eyelid muscles and may require eyelid lift surgery at a younger age.

Reduction of Subcutaneous Fat and Tissue Atrophy

With aging, subcutaneous fat around the eyes diminishes, and supporting tissues also undergo atrophy. This process leads to sagging skin and eyelid drooping.

Loss of tissue volume: This can cause deep wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes.

Inflammatory and Allergic Factors

Chronic inflammatory conditions like eyelid dermatitis or eye allergies can cause swelling and persistent inflammation in the eyelid area. This chronic inflammation can gradually cause the eyelid skin to sag and loosen.

Functional Problems Caused by Eyelid Drooping:

In addition to aesthetic effects, eyelid drooping can cause functional problems:

Reduced field of vision: In severe cases, drooping of the upper eyelid can limit a person’s field of vision, making eyelid lift surgery necessary.
Dryness or irritation of the eyes: Eyelid drooping can prevent the eyelids from fully closing, leading to chronic dryness or irritation.

Eyelid sagging and loosening occur due to various reasons, including the natural aging process, hormonal changes, genetic factors, sun damage, and fat accumulation. These changes not only affect aesthetic appearance but can also cause functional issues such as reduced field of vision and dry eyes. Eyelid lift or blepharoplasty is recognized as an effective treatment method for addressing these problems and can help restore youthfulness and vitality to the face. Proper skincare, prevention of environmental damage, and timely visits to dermatologists and beauty specialists can help prevent or slow down the onset of these issues.

Skin Rejuvenation and Treatment of Skin Problems

Skin rejuvenation technologies are designed to improve texture, reduce wrinkles, and enhance skin structure. Each of these technologies operates based on scientific mechanisms and innovative methods to safely and effectively regenerate the skin and boost collagen production. Below is an explanation of various technologies used in skin rejuvenation.

Cold and Hot Plasma Technology

Plasma, the fourth state of matter, is ionized gas that stimulates skin tissue by releasing energy. Plasma technologies are offered in two types: cold plasma and hot plasma:

Hot Plasma: In this method, thermal energy from plasma is applied to the skin layers, creating controlled microscopic wounds on the skin. These wounds stimulate skin cells and increase collagen production, leading to skin tightening and wrinkle reduction. Hot plasma is useful for improving deeper wrinkles and correcting skin sagging.
Cold Plasma: Cold plasma operates at lower energy and temperatures and works superficially on the skin to improve texture and reduce skin blemishes. It is particularly suitable for individuals with sensitive skin, as it stimulates the skin tissues without causing deep damage and facilitates the rejuvenation process.

Treatment with Leading Global Technologies

Carboxytherapy Technology

Carboxytherapy is a non-invasive skin rejuvenation method that works by injecting carbon dioxide gas under the skin. This gas naturally exists in the body, and its injection into the skin dilates blood vessels, increases blood flow, and improves oxygen delivery to tissues. This process helps stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity. Carboxytherapy is effective for treating dark circles under the eyes, skin sagging, wrinkles, and enhancing skin color and texture.

Nd:YAG Laser Technology with a 1064 nm Wavelength

The Nd:YAG laser is a powerful type of laser whose 1064 nm wavelength has the capability to penetrate deeper layers of the skin. This laser stimulates collagen-producing cells in the deeper skin layers, enhancing the skin’s regeneration process without damaging its surface. Due to its low melanin absorption, the 1064 nm wavelength is safer for all skin types, especially darker skin, and is used for reducing wrinkles, treating sagging, and removing skin spots.

Examining Rejuvenation Technologies for Treating Eyelid Ptosis

Eyelid ptosis refers to the reduction in firmness and sagging of the upper or lower eyelid skin, which can result from various factors such as aging, genetics, decreased collagen and elastin production, or weakened eyelid muscles. Treating this condition can improve both aesthetics and even visual function. Advanced technologies like cold and hot plasma, carboxytherapy, and Nd:YAG laser are effective methods for treating eyelid ptosis. Below is a detailed review of each technology, its positive effects, benefits, and related scientific studies.

Hot Plasma for Treating Eyelid Ptosis

Mechanism of Action:
Hot plasma creates controlled heat on the skin surface, causing microscopic wounds and stimulating cellular regeneration. This heat triggers collagen production and tightens sagging eyelid tissues.
Positive Effects:

Eyelid Lift and Firming: Increased collagen production tightens and reduces eyelid sagging.
Tissue Regeneration: Healthier new skin replaces sagging and aged tissue.
Wrinkle Reduction: Fine lines and eyelid wrinkles are minimized.

Benefits:

Non-Invasive Method: Eyelid lifting is performed without the need for surgery.
Short Recovery Time: Compared to eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), the recovery time is shorter.

Scientific Studies:
Studies have shown that hot plasma can help improve eyelid ptosis. In one study, patients experienced significant improvements in eyelid firmness and strength after several treatment sessions.

Related Article:

Title: “Efficacy of Plasma Technology in Non-Surgical Blepharoplasty”

Cold Plasma for Treating Eyelid Ptosis

Mechanism of Action:
Cold plasma stimulates cellular regeneration and improves skin elasticity without creating high heat. This technology is most effective for mild to moderate eyelid ptosis.
Positive Effects:

Gentle Collagen Stimulation: Improves eyelid firmness without damaging deeper layers.
Reduction of Inflammation and Swelling: Helps improve eyelid tissue and reduces swelling caused by sagging.

Benefits:

Fewer Side Effects: Lower risk of burns or pigmentation changes due to the absence of high heat.

Suitable for Sensitive Skin: Particularly beneficial for individuals with thin or sensitive eyelid skin.

Scientific Studies:
Research has shown that cold plasma can improve mild eyelid ptosis and rejuvenate the appearance of the eyelid.

Related Article:

Title: “Cold Plasma in Dermatology: Applications for Eyelid Rejuvenation”

Carboxytherapy for Treating Eyelid Ptosis

Mechanism of Action:
In carboxytherapy, carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas is injected into eyelid tissues. This process dilates blood vessels, increases blood flow, and enhances oxygen delivery to tissues. The increased oxygen helps stimulate collagen and elastin production.
Positive Effects:

Increased Eyelid Skin Firmness: New collagen production tightens and reduces eyelid sagging.
Reduction of Fine Wrinkles: Fine lines around the eyes are minimized.
Improved Eyelid Skin Texture: Enhanced blood circulation revitalizes the skin.

Benefits:

Non-Invasive Method: Performed without surgery and with minimal side effects.
Simultaneous Improvement of Other Issues: Treats dark under-eye circles in addition to eyelid ptosis.
Scientific Studies:
Clinical studies have shown that carboxytherapy can improve eyelid sagging and laxity. In one study, 80% of patients reported significant improvements in eyelid firmness and strength after treatment.

Related Article:

Title: “Carboxytherapy for Upper Eyelid Skin Laxity”

Nd:YAG Laser for Treating Eyelid Ptosis

Mechanism of Action:
The Nd:YAG laser with a 1064 nm wavelength penetrates deeper layers of the skin, creating controlled heat in the dermal layer. This heat stimulates collagen and elastin production and tightens eyelid skin.

Positive Effects:

Deep Collagen Stimulation: Rebuilds eyelid skin structure and reduces sagging.
Skin Firming: Controlled heat reduces skin laxity and sagging.
Wrinkle Reduction: Improves fine lines and eyelid wrinkles.

Benefits:

Safe for All Skin Types: Especially safe for darker skin tones.
Long-Lasting Results: The effects of this treatment typically have high durability.
Scientific Studies:
Studies have shown that the Nd:YAG laser improves eyelid ptosis and makes the skin in this area firmer and more youthful.

Related Article: