By Andrea Goto
If you’re old enough to remember “Droppy Dog” from the cartoon created in 1943 (I assure you I only saw him in‘80s reruns), then you’ll understand how I’ve felt for much of 2020: depressed, forlorn and freakin’ tired. So very tired. And I’ve looked like it, too. Jowling seems to be more prominent and I’ve noticed more hollowing under my eyes. But as we’re coming out of the darkness (I swear we are--we have to be), I’m finding my spark again. And with my lifting spirits, there also appears to be some facial lifting. No, it’s not a miracle. I could still use a little tighten and tuck, but I’m just no longer wallowing in pandemic-induced pity.
Hopefully you’re starting to feel less worn and hopeless, too. However, what happens when we’re feeling better--more rested and ready to roll--but our face still reads like a post week-long Vegas bender? No one wants to look tired--but looking like Droopy Dog when you actually feel like a unicorn? That’s not even fair.
A number of factors can contribute to looking perpetually tired, but the biggest culprit seems to be the eyes. Dark circles, hollowing, or puffiness can come with age, though it can also be genetic, and when that’s the case, no amount of sleep, serums or stress-relievers are going to fix it.
Tired-looking eyes don't discriminate. I’ve seen gorgeous 40 year olds and stunning 20-somethings with extra under-eye padding that suggests exhaustion where it’s not. If it doesn’t bother them, cool. But if it does, there are a number of solid options to fight the look of fatigue.
Fill ‘er up
Under-eye hollowing in what is called the “tear trough” region can give the impression of dark circles and cover-up can only do so much. Fillers like Restylane and Juvederm can literally fill in the area, eliminating shadowing and providing a natural, youthful look that can last up to 18 months. The procedure, which involves a few injections with a very fine cannula, takes about 30 minutes and there is no downtime. Easy peasy. While temporary, it works. (I’ve had it, I know!)
Empty it out
It’s also possible to surgically remove excessive fatty deposits from under the with a blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery. The procedure can address sagging or puffiness in the lower eyelid and also lift the upper eyelid if you have hooding or droppiness. While there is some downtime with surgery, you can usually return to regular activities after about a week.
Of course, the best approach is to discuss your options with your facial plastic surgeon before settling on any one procedure. A skilled surgeon can help determine the best personalized course of treatment based on your goals and budget.
So here’s to saying so long to 2020 and the havoc it wreaked, and hello to 2021, which we can look forward to with brighter eyes.
