Orbital Rhytids
Orbital rhytids or wrinkles around the eyes are also known as the dreaded “crows feet”. A wrinkle or rhytid is a ridge or crease in the surface of the skin. It is the most common form of visible aging. Wrinkles develop over time from consistent movement of the skin, smoking, poor hydration and decreased elasticity due to aging and sun damage. Orbital rhytids are believed to be caused by collagen and fiber changes from smiling. The muscle that surrounds the eye, or orbital muscle, will shorten or tighten when one smiles. Every time one laughs or smiles the skin around the eyes creases or folds in a similar way. Repeating these motions overtime, causes the skin to remember and eventually this skin fold will remain even when the action is not being done.
Orbital wrinkles can be reduced in a variety of ways. The fine lines can be decreased or even eliminated with a good skin care regime, microdermabrasion, or light chemical peels such as alpha hydroxyl acid or micro peels. These work to remove the top dead layer of skin that often caused skin to look dry and dull. This dryness reflects the light making lines appear deeper than they are.
Injectables such as Botox® can be used to relax the muscles around the eye thereby decreasing the appearance of the wrinkles. Dermal fillers can also be injected to plump up lines and folds. The fillers add volume to the depleted areas thereby eliminating the wrinkles temporarily.
Laser skin resurfacing with fractional laser treatments and skin tightening laser treatments are also used to reduce the appearance of orbital rhytids. The lasers work by causing a thermal injury under the skin to stimulate collagen which tighten the skin and decrease the wrinkles. Discuss your concerns over orbital rhytids with your cosmetic specialist to determine which procedure is right for you. |
