Eye Rejuvenation
Eye Rejuvenation in Chevy Chase, MD & Washington, DC | The West Institute
Typically, early signs of aging around the eyes become noticeable in the late 20s to early 30s. These signs can affect your appearance by making you look older or altering your expression to appear tired, angry, or sad. The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate compared to other areas of the face.
The natural aging process leads to further thinning of the skin due to collagen loss, which makes the eyes one of the first areas to display signs of premature aging, such as:
- Drooping, sagging eyelids
- Crow’s feet
- Tired, saggy-looking eyes
- Dark undereye circles
- Undereye bags
Other factors that may contribute to the signs of aging around the eyes may include:
- Seasonal allergies
- Eye rubbing when tired or itchy
- Skin tugging from makeup application
- Harsh makeup removers/wipes
- Dry eyelids
- Eyelash enhancers (darken skin)
- Sun damage
- Medications
Minimally invasive under-eye rejuvenation treatments are designed to diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, improve skin tone and texture, and stimulate the skin’s natural healing response. With minimal downtime, patients can expect outstanding results following their cosmetic eye rejuvenation procedures.
With eye rejuvenation experts at The West Institute, you can achieve smoother, younger-looking eyes and help refresh your overall facial appearance. Schedule your consultation today.
Eye Rejuvenation Options at The West Institute
UltraClear® Laser Skin Resurfacing For Eye Rejuvenation
Dr. Tina West, founder of the West Institute for Skin, Laser and Body Contouring, is the first provider in the Washington metro area to offer UltraClear®, a revolutionary new FDA-cleared laser that represents the FIRST-ever “Cold-fiber” laser. The UltraClear® laser represents a significant advancement in the field of dermatology and laser treatments by being the first resurfacing laser in the world that doesn’t produce heat, allowing safe treatment of ALL skin tones and offering unparalleled results and healing time.
How Can UltraClear® Laser Resurfacing Rejuvenate My Eyes?
The UltraClear® Cold-Fiber laser is engineered to penetrate beyond the superficial layers and address skin concerns at multiple depths. It meticulously targets the superficial layers of skin to erase flaws and discolorations. With minimal thermal energy, the laser not only fosters new skin cell growth but also boosts the synthesis of collagen and elastin, the pivotal proteins for skin resilience and suppleness. The outcome is a profound transformation in skin quality, tone, and overall wellness.
Can Dermal Fillers Be Used To Rejuvenate My Eyes?
Yes. Restylane® is an injectable hyaluronic acid dermal filler designed to deliver natural-looking results. When used in the under-eye area, it can soften hollowing, improve the appearance of dark circles caused by shadowing, and restore subtle volume loss that occurs with aging.
Hyaluronic acid mirrors a substance naturally found in the body, allowing for smooth integration into the delicate tear trough area. With a thoughtful, conservative approach, Restylane® can create a brighter, more refreshed appearance while maintaining the natural shape and expression of your eyes.
How Can Fillers Rejuvenate My Eyes?
Using a cannula (a blunt-tipped instrument) or a fine-gauge needle, Dr. West carefully places Restylane®, a soft and cohesive hyaluronic acid gel, into the under-eye area to restore subtle volume and smooth dark hollows. By filling the tear trough, we reduce shadowing and create a smoother transition between the lower eyelid and cheek, which helps the eyes appear brighter and more refreshed.
Restylane® is versatile and can also be used to soften moderate nasolabial folds, etched-in smile lines, and vertical lip lines. In the delicate under-eye area, precision and restraint are key. Our approach focuses on natural balance, avoiding overfilling while maintaining your unique anatomy.
If you are noticing a tired appearance, facial hollowing, or persistent dark circles, under-eye filler may be an excellent option. Dr. West will meet with you to determine whether you are a good candidate and create a customized treatment plan aligned with your goals.
How Long Do The Results Last?
Individual results may vary, but typically, results are immediate, and when used to fill under-eye hollows, Restylane lasts up to 2 years, complementing the effects of other eye treatments and at-home skincare. Clinical studies have demonstrated that for most subjects, the improvements of Restylane were sustained for up to 12 months.
Dr. Tina West is a board-certified dermatologist and leading expert in cosmetic dermatology, laser surgery, and body contouring procedures. For over 30 years, Dr. West has dedicated her practice to providing natural-looking results and full patient satisfaction. Dr. West invites you to visit The West Institute for a friendly and informative consultation.
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Neuromodulators for Eye Rejuvenation
Botox®, Dysport®, Jeuveau®, Xeomin® are FDA-approved neuromodulators that are used for targeting the underlying causes of crow’s feet and “frown” lines —the repeated muscle contractions from frowning and squinting over the years.
Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin all work by temporarily blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that “tells” muscles to contract. Dr. West uses neuromodulators to temporarily help smooth the appearance of moderate to severe crow’s feet and frown lines without impacting the surrounding skin or changing the look or movement of the rest of the face. Untreated muscles continue to work normally, so you can continue to express feelings naturally. It’s the lines that disappear, not your expressions.
Contrary to popular belief, neuromodulators should not cause you to lose the ability to show expression. When you are treated by a licensed medical professional with extensive injection experience and knowledge of facial anatomy, like Dr. West, you should look refreshed and not “overdone,” effectively treating fine lines.
Dr. West co-published the first study in the international medical literature documenting a correlation between the dose of neuromodulator and the duration of results. At the time of your visit, she will recommend the most conservative treatment dose to achieve your desired result. Dr. West is well-versed in all neuromodulators and participated in the original Phase III FDA clinical trials for the approval of Botox Cosmetic in the United States.
If you find others commenting that you look upset or angry when you’re not feeling that way, or if you are interested in targeting and correcting subtle signs of aging, like crow’s feet, then this treatment may be right for you to improve your skin’s texture and youthful appearance. Neuromodulators are also very effective for erasing horizontal forehead lines.
If your desire is a subtle lift of the brows, a “chemical brow lift,” by relaxing the frown muscles, then this treatment may also be right for you.
Before your treatment, Dr. West will discuss your treatment goals and analyze your muscle movement to determine the appropriate treatment areas for you, which may include options like chemical peels.
You can expect real, noticeable results, which may begin to show within 24 to 48 hours following treatment. You’ll be able to go about your normal routine immediately after you leave the office. You may be instructed to remain upright for 2 hours following the treatment, and you will be scheduled for a 10-14 day follow-up appointment to evaluate your results.
Most patients will see results last about four months, particularly for dark under-eye bags.
Ready to Enjoy a Younger-Looking You?
If you would like to take the next step toward a more confident you, Dr. West invites you to reach out and schedule a personalized assessment. Our team would be happy to meet with you to discuss your many incredible anti-aging options offered at The West Institute.
Eye Rejuvenation FAQs
The most effective treatment depends on the cause of your dark circles. At the West Institute, we offer Restylane® to address pigmentation, skin laxity, and hollowing. Dr. West will evaluate your concerns and customize a plan that may include one or a combination of these treatments.
Yes. When performed by an experienced physician like Dr. Tina West, laser resurfacing is safe and highly effective for rejuvenating the delicate skin around the eyes. It is considered the gold standard for treating fine lines, crepey texture, and dark circles in this area.
Most patients achieve excellent results with just one session. Additional treatments may be recommended depending on your skin type, goals, and the severity of your concerns.
Yes, there is typically about one week of downtime. During this period, the skin may appear red, swollen, and feel tight as it heals. Dr. West will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and results.
Yes. Restylane is FDA-approved dermal fillers that are safe and specifically formulated for delicate areas like the tear troughs when administered by a trained specialist.
Not at The West Institute. Dr. West specializes in subtle, natural-looking results. She uses precise injection techniques and carefully selected products to restore a refreshed, rested appearance, not a puffy or artificial one.
Yes. Neuromodulators like Botox®, Dysport®, Jeuveau®, and Xeomin® can smooth dynamic wrinkles such as crow’s feet and frown lines, contributing to a more youthful, rested appearance around the eyes.
You can expect to see initial results within 3–5 days, with full results visible in about 10–14 days. These treatments typically last 3–4 months, depending on your metabolism and the product used.
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” age. Some patients begin using neuromodulators preventatively in their late 20s to early 30s, while others seek eye rejuvenation in their 40s, 50s, or beyond. Dr. West customizes treatment plans based on your anatomy and goals, not just age.
Absolutely. Many patients benefit from a combination approach. Dr. West may recommend integrating laser resurfacing, dermal fillers, and neuromodulators to comprehensively address skin texture, volume loss, and muscle activity around the eyes.
Dr. West offers in-depth, personalized consultations to evaluate your under-eye concerns and overall facial anatomy. Together, you’ll design a customized plan that aligns with your aesthetic goals and comfort level.