Puffiness of the lower eyelids or dark circles, is a common problem among both men and women. This creates a “tired” appearance and can occur at any age. Genetics play a big role in how you age. Often times, a patient will state; “I look tired all the time”. There are multiple approaches to addressing the “tired” appearance of the lower eyelids. Often in younger patients, surgery is not required. It requires a consultation in the office to determine what procedure is right for you. There are a multitude of factors that play a role in the aging of the face and lower eyelids. Over time the skin thins and loses strength. You will also notice the fat will start to bulge forward. This becomes more obvious because you are also losing volume in the midface. In addition to the aging changes, there are outside factors that play a role too. Lack of sleep, allergens and sun exposure can worsen lower eyelid appearance. If you are noticing the tired appearance schedule a consultation with Dr. MacQuaid to discuss your options. Often a patient thinks they require surgery when about 50% of patients may benefit from less invasive options such as Botox, lasers, volume restoration and eye creams.
THE AGING FACE
Upper Eyelids: The skin on the upper eyelids is thin and loses elasticity as we age. This leads to excess skin and a tired appearance.
Lower Eyelids: The skin on the lower eyelids also stretches with time. The tensile strength of the eyelid decreases which results in a mild to moderate eyelid droop. Orbital fat protrudes which leads to a “puffy bag” on the lower eyelids. The volume around the eye also decreases leading to “hollowness” around the lower eyelids.
Eyebrows: With time, the soft fatty tissue beneath the eyebrows lessens. The fat in the temples also dissipates leading to a mild brow droop.
Midface: Loses volume and descends. Making the face look aged and tired. This creates lines around the mouth. A full midface creates a more youthful appearance.
Lips: Get thinner and lose volume as we age.
Nasolabial: The nasolabial lines is the line from the corner of your nose to the outer corner of the mouth. As we age, it becomes prominent because the midface droops and we lose volume.
Jawline: The jawline becomes less defined as we age.
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MEET DR. MACQUAID
Dr. MacQuaid is a Board Certified Ophthalmologist and Oculoplastic Surgeon. An Oculoplastic Surgeon is someone who specializes exclusively in reconstructive, revision and cosmetic surgery of the eyes and surrounding tissue. She completed her fellowship at the prestigious Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins Hospital.
Dr. MacQuaid's services range from cosmetic surgery of the eyelids and eyebrows to the midface. Dr. MacQuaid is a renowned expert in reconstructive surgery of the eyelids, eyebrows, tear duct surgery, thyroid eye disease, and tumors. She has advanced training in non-surgical facial rejuvenation such as Botox®, Restylane®, Juvéderm®, Radiesse® and Laser Resurfacing. She offers the latest technology available to patients.
Dr. MacQuaid is currently a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Aside from Ophthalmology, Dr. MacQuaid is a former Division One college athlete. In her free time, she enjoys playing tennis and spending time with her husband Jerry and their two children.
Board Certified Ophthalmologist
and Oculoplastic Surgeon
9 Schilling Road Suite LL8
Hunt Valley, Maryland 21031
479 Jumpers Hole Road Suite 106
Severna Park, MD 21146
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Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider.