Skip to main content

Malar Bags Treatments: Fillers, Surgery and Laser

Doctor checking patient's face before cosmetic surgery

Malar bags, also known as festoons, are soft, swollen areas that appear on the upper cheeks just below the lower eyelids. They differ from typical under-eye bags, as they develop lower on the face and are often linked to issues such as weakened skin support, fluid retention, or ageing. C.D. Bakala MD FRCSC Inc. offers clinically proven malar bags treatments in Kelowna, designed to address the underlying causes of this condition through safe, evidence-based procedures. 

Understanding Malar Bags 

Malar bags form when the ligaments and muscles supporting the midface weaken, allowing fat and fluid to accumulate in the area between the lower eyelid and cheek. Over time, this leads to a puffy or swollen appearance that may worsen with fatigue, allergies, or sun exposure. 

Common causes include: 

  • Ageing and skin laxity: Loss of elasticity and muscle tone in the midface. 
  • Fluid retention: Impaired lymphatic drainage leading to swelling. 
  • Genetic factors: Hereditary facial structure or tissue characteristics. 
  • Sun damage: UV exposure breaking down collagen and elastin fibres. 
  • Lifestyle and health factors: Smoking, alcohol use, allergies, or lack of sleep. 
     

Each case is unique, which is why treatment should be based on the specific cause rather than the visible symptom alone. 

Treatment Options 

Each treatment plan is customized after evaluating facial anatomy, skin type, and the cause of the festoons: 

  • Malar Festoon Removal:  A procedure that reduces puffiness and swelling by removing or  repositioning excess fat beneath the lower eyelid.
  • Mid-facelift with blepharoplasty: Lifts and tightens midface tissues; removes excess eyelid skin and fat. 
  • Blepharoplasty: Removes or repositions fat and tightens lower eyelid skin; best for tissue-related puffiness. 
  • Laser resurfacing: Stimulates collagen and tightens skin; targets mild to moderate malar bags. 
  • Secret RF skin tightening: Uses radiofrequency microneedling to firm and remodel deeper skin layers; this product can be combined with other treatments. 

Dermal Fillers 

Dermal fillers can be used in selected cases of malar bags treatments in Kelowna, particularly where volume loss contributes to a hollow or shadowed appearance. 

  • Benefits: 
  • Smooth the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek. 
  • Restore subtle volume to improve facial balance. 
     
  • Cautions: 
  • Fillers are not suitable when puffiness is caused primarily by fluid retention or poor lymphatic drainage. 
  • In such cases, filler injections can worsen swelling. 
  • Proper assessment is required to determine suitability and avoid complications. 
     

Laser Treatments 

Laser therapy is often recommended for patients with mild to moderate malar bags or skin laxity. 

  • Fractional laser resurfacing and skin tightening: 
  • Stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity. 
  • It can reduce fine lines, pigmentation, and puffiness associated with festoons. 
  • Non-invasive and generally requires multiple sessions for optimal results. 

Laser treatments can also be combined with surgery or fillers when necessary for a more comprehensive outcome. 

Professional Assessment and Care in Kelowna 

Choosing the right malar bags treatment requires an accurate diagnosis of the underlying cause. A detailed facial evaluation helps determine whether surgical, injectable, or laser-based options will yield the safest and most effective outcome. 

At C.D. Bakala MD FRCSC Inc., the team offers specialized facial cosmetic surgery, laser skin care and malar bags treatments in Kelowna. To learn more or schedule a consultation, contact our team. luding Botox and Dysport treatments. Book your consultation today and discover how our personalized approach can help you boost your look and confidence. 

Related Posts