Countless numbers of people in South Florida and the U.S. suffer from a common condition often known as “dark circles” under their eyes, and they feel it makes them look older and tired. This condition is clinically termed hyperpigmentation, and it is most often seen in the inner half of the lower lids. Heredity, allergies, trauma (rubbing the eyes), and medical diseases such as thyroid and other conditions where fluid retention may occur (such as heart or kidney failure) are all predisposing factors to dark circles. Ultraviolet light may also be a factor in producing hyperpigmentation of the lids.
Common treatments for hyperpigmentation have traditionally included chemical peels and bleaching agents, which have been utilized with inconsistent results. The hyperpigmentation may also be accentuated by underlying herniated fat bags. Occasionally there can be improvements in the coloration just by removing the fat through blepharoplasty.
Dr. Epstein has finally found a real, permanent solution to treat these troublesome black eyes. It is called CO2 Laser Resurfacing and Dr. Epstein has had tremendous success removing dark circles with them because they resurface the tender skin under the eyes, remove the pigmentation and heal the skin quickly.
Dr. Epstein discovered the positive results of CO2 Laser Resurfacing on dark circles after performing countless lower lid blepharoplasties, combined with lower lid laser resurfacing. The selection of one laser over the other depends on the skin color and degree of wrinkling around the eyes. Because of the positive results from the use of lasers, Dr. Epstein has been using laser resurfacing exclusively for hyperpigmentation and has continued to obtain wonderful results for patients suffering from this condition.
Recuperation time is just a few days, and the procedure takes only 20 minutes under local anesthesia. Afterward, patients experience some short-term stinging, swollen eyes, and a little oozing from the area, but they can return to work the next day.
