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Surgeon-Led Specialist Clinic
Led by plastic surgeon Dr. Ayad Harb, we pride ourselves on the standard of care, quality and safety of our treatments.
Central Clinic Locations
SRGN has three state of the art clinic locations in Central London, Bicester & Ascot.
Care Quality Commission
We're regulated by the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
GMC Registered Surgeons
All of our surgeons are registered with the General Medical Council.
Medically Reviewed April 2023, by Dr. Ayad Harb, one of the world's leading plastic surgeons
The delicate area beneath our eyes is one of the first places people look when they engage with us. It speaks volumes about our health, emotional state, and age. Given its prominence, the appearance of dark circles and tear troughs can become a significant concern for many individuals. The reasons behind these manifestations are multifaceted, making them subjects of great interest in the fields of aesthetics and skincare.
Dark circles are characterised by the darkening of the skin under the eyes. Several contributing factors can cause or exacerbate this condition. In some individuals, dark circles arise due to blood vessels becoming more visible through the skin. As the skin thins, typically with age or due to other factors, these blood vessels become more pronounced. Another common cause is the shadows cast by puffy eyelids. When the eyes are swollen or puffy, they can create a shadow effect that gives the illusion of dark circles.
Tear troughs, on the other hand, are slightly different from dark circles, although they often coexist. A tear trough refers to the indentation that runs diagonally from the inner corner of the eye towards the cheeks. Naturally, as we age, the face undergoes various structural changes. The skin loses its elasticity, the production of collagen diminishes, and there is a shift or reduction in facial fat pads. All these alterations can make the tear troughs more pronounced, leading to a more tired or aged appearance.
Genetics undoubtedly plays a significant role in the development of both dark circles and tear troughs. If one observes family members with these characteristics, it increases the likelihood of them developing the same features. Moreover, the inevitable process of aging is another undeniable factor. With time, skin loses elasticity, becomes thinner, and the effects of gravitational pull become evident. The consequent result is a more apparent visibility of blood vessels and a deepening of tear troughs.
Lifestyle choices and habits can also make a considerable difference in the appearance of the under-eye area. Poor sleep quality or quantity, elevated stress levels, excessive salt intake, high alcohol consumption, and smoking can all contribute to fluid retention, which can manifest as puffiness or discoloration under the eyes. Moreover, prolonged exposure to the sun can accelerate skin ageing. Without proper protection, the skin under the eyes can become more susceptible to damage, further thinning it and making vessels more visible.
In some cases, dark circles could also signal a deeper health issue, such as an iron deficiency. It's crucial to consider all potential underlying causes and not just write them off as a mere cosmetic issue. Seeking consultation from a qualified professional can help decipher the true reason behind one's dark circles or tear troughs. It's always recommended to approach these concerns with a comprehensive perspective, ensuring that any treatment chosen addresses the root cause and not just the symptoms.
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Vascular dark circles are a prevalent type of under-eye discoloration characterised by a distinct bluish hue. Their presence is often attributed to the blood vessels showing predominantly through the delicate and thin skin beneath the eyes. But what causes these vessels to be so evident?
A myriad of factors contribute to this phenomenon. Fluid retention is one significant contributor. Due to various reasons such as dietary choices, lack of sleep, or hormonal changes, fluid can accumulate in the under-eye area. This swelling can push the blood vessels closer to the skin's surface, making them appear more pronounced. This effect is often more noticeable upon waking, as lying flat can exacerbate fluid accumulation. Over time, this consistent fluid buildup can make the area appear perpetually darker, especially if not addressed.
Genetics also plays a pivotal role. Some individuals naturally have thinner skin in this region, making blood vessels more visible. Factors like age, with the skin becoming thinner over time, and genetics together can exacerbate the appearance of these dark circles.
Environmental elements shouldn't be underestimated either. Constant exposure to screens, insufficient lighting when reading, or even continuous eye strain can intensify these vascular dark circles. They can be challenging to treat due to their multifactorial nature and may require both lifestyle adjustments and targeted treatments.
Pigmented dark circles present themselves as brown or tan discolorations beneath the eyes. Unlike their vascular counterparts, which are due to blood vessels, these circles arise from hyperpigmentation of the skin. The causes of this hyperpigmentation can be diverse.
One primary cause is genetics. Especially in individuals with melanin-rich skin tones, a genetic predisposition towards developing these circles can be observed. Over time, localised increases in melanin can lead to the characteristic brownish discoloration associated with this type.
Chronic sun exposure is another major factor. The ultraviolet rays from the sun can stimulate melanocytes, the cells responsible for melanin production. Without proper UV protection, the under-eye area, already delicate and thin, can undergo excessive melanin production, leading to those persistent tan or brown circles.
Additionally, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can also contribute. Any inflammation or injury, even from constant rubbing or scratching, can leave behind an increased pigment as a part of the skin's healing process.
Addressing pigmented dark circles often requires a dual approach: protection from further pigmentary changes and treatments that target the existing discoloration.
Structural dark circles are distinctive as they arise due to the physical anatomy of the face rather than pigmentation or vascular issues. They are often the result of shadows cast by puffy eyelids, pronounced tear troughs, or other facial structures.
Ageing is a primary factor contributing to these circles. As we age, several changes occur. The skin loses collagen, making it less plump and elastic. Fat pads that once gave our face a youthful appearance might reduce or shift, creating hollows. These hollows, especially when combined with the natural bone structure, can cast shadows, leading to the appearance of dark circles.
Environmental factors, like consistent lack of sleep, can lead to puffiness and enhance the appearance of these structural shadows. Dehydration, too, plays a role by making the skin more sunken and accentuating the troughs.
Tackling structural dark circles often requires treatments that address the physical contours of the face, from fillers to surgical interventions, depending on the severity and the individual's needs.
Dermal fillers represent a groundbreaking leap in aesthetic medicine. These fillers, composed of various biocompatible substances, primarily aim to restore volume and structure to the face, making them a go-to option for individuals battling the pesky appearance of structural dark circles or pronounced tear troughs.
Understanding the foundational cause of dark circles is essential. As we age, collagen production diminishes, and the once-youthful fat deposits in our face start to deplete or shift. This can lead to hollowing beneath the eyes and the formation of tear troughs. These physical depressions can create unflattering shadows, especially under certain lighting conditions, making the under-eye area appear darker than it is. This is where dermal fillers come into play.
When expertly administered, dermal fillers can provide instant volume to these hollow areas. They work by mimicking the effects of the natural fat pads or collagen in our face, plumping up the area. This not only helps to diminish the appearance of dark circles but also rejuvenates the entire under-eye region, granting a fresher and more rested appearance.
The procedure itself is relatively straightforward. After a comprehensive consultation with the patient, a trained aesthetician or plastic surgeon would use a fine needle to inject the filler into the designated area. With advancements in filler technology, many of these products come with integrated anaesthetics, ensuring patient comfort throughout the procedure. Post-treatment, patients might experience slight swelling or bruising, but these symptoms usually resolve quickly.
The choice of filler material is crucial. Hyaluronic acid fillers are amongst the most popular choices for the under-eye region. This naturally occurring substance boasts excellent biocompatibility, ensuring minimal side effects and allergic reactions. Furthermore, the effects of hyaluronic acid fillers are temporary but can last several months to a year, providing individuals with flexibility should they desire changes in the future.
Platelet-Rich Plasma, commonly referred to as PRP, is a treatment that harnesses the body's natural healing capabilities to rejuvenate and refresh the skin, particularly in the delicate under-eye area. Given the growing demand for non-surgical, organic treatments, PRP for the eyes has seen a significant surge in popularity over recent years.
To truly appreciate the wonders of PRP, one needs to delve into its origins. PRP is derived from the patient's blood. When a patient opts for a PRP treatment, a small volume of their blood is drawn and then processed in a centrifuge. This machine spins the blood, effectively separating the plasma and platelets from other components. This rich concoction of platelets and plasma, abundant in growth factors, forms the PRP.
Once prepared, PRP is then reintroduced into the patient's skin, in this case, the under-eye region. The growth factors present in PRP work diligently to stimulate collagen production, promote tissue regeneration, and enhance overall skin health. For those battling dark circles, especially those caused by thinning skin or minor volume loss, PRP can offer a marked improvement.
The application of PRP stimulates a healing response. This response, in turn, leads to the regeneration of the skin from within, enhancing its thickness and vitality. Over time, the under-eye region becomes firmer, plumper, and more youthful, with the dark circles gradually fading.
As with any medical procedure, there are considerations to bear in mind. Since PRP is derived from the patient's blood, the risk of allergic reactions or infections is significantly minimised. However, post-treatment, some might experience mild redness, swelling, or bruising, which typically subsides within a few days.
Moreover, the benefits of PRP are progressive. While some may notice immediate improvements, the full spectrum of benefits unfolds over several weeks to months as the skin undergoes its natural regeneration process. Many choose to undergo multiple sessions to achieve and maintain optimal results.
Both treatments, while different in approach and mechanism, underscore the advancements in aesthetic medicine. Whether opting for dermal fillers' immediate volume restoration or PRP's natural regeneration, individuals now have powerful tools at their disposal to combat dark circles and reclaim their radiant gaze.
Located in the heart of Ascot, Bicester, and London, the SRGN Clinic exemplifies afusion of cutting-edge science, unparalleled skill, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. The clinic stands as a beacon of excellence in thefield of aesthetic and plastic surgery.
Leading the team at SRGN is Dr. Ayad Harb, a renowned plastic surgeon and aesthetic trainer. His expertise, honed by years of experience and a genuine passion for improving lives, defines the very core of the clinic's ethos. Dr. Harb's innovative techniques, combined with an artistic eye for detail, enable him to deliver consistently exceptional results that are tailored to each patient's individual needs and desires.
At SRGN, we believe in the transformative power of aesthetic and plastic surgery. Our treatments, ranging from non-invasive procedures to complex surgical interventions, are designed to enhance and accentuate your natural beauty. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and confidential environment where you can discuss your aesthetic goals openly, and together we create a treatment plan that brings these goals to life.
Every member of the SRGN team shares a deep commitment to patient care. We prioritise your comfort, safety, and satisfaction from the moment you step into our clinic. Each of our facilities mirrors the luxury and tranquility of their surroundings, offering a serene space where you can embark on your journey to self-improvement.
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