Because the under-eye area is composed of delicate skin and visible blood vessels, even subtle changes in fat loss, collagen production, or blood circulation can create a sunken look that affects your overall facial features and self-esteem. At Gilpin Facial Plastics in Nashville, Dr. Gilpin offers advanced, customized treatments to restore lost volume, smooth the tear trough, and rejuvenate the eyes, resulting in a brighter, refreshed appearance.
What Are Hollow Eyes?
Hollow eyes, sometimes referred to as sunken eyes, tear trough hollows, or a tear trough deformity, describe a condition where the under-eye area appears dark, shadowed, or recessed. This can give the face a tired, aged look even when a person is well-rested. In some cases, hollow eyes are accompanied by dark circles, a sunken appearance, or sagging skin in the lower eyelids and upper eyelids. Patients may notice a deep groove between the eyelid and cheek, casting dark shadows across the face.
Causes of Hollow Eyes
The causes of sunken eyes are varied and can involve both lifestyle and medical factors. Common contributors include:
- Fat loss in the eye socket as part of the natural aging process.
- Collagen production decline, leaving the delicate skin around the eyes thinner.
- Blood vessels beneath the skin becoming more visible, leading to a dark, sunken look.
- Sun exposure, lack of sleep, or not getting enough sleep.
- Seasonal allergies, hay fever, or sinus infection, which can cause swelling, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes.
- Congenital conditions and medical conditions like vascular problems or senile enophthalmos.
- Lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet, or a lack of nutrients that support healthy skin.
ELEVATE YOUR CONFIDENCE
IN A LUXURY SURGICAL PRACTICE
Investing in your confidence is a big step, and your choice of facial plastic surgeon should reflect it. We offer a premier, luxury environment where you can focus on yourself.
With the help of our professional and knowledgeable team, you can begin your journey toward a more confident you. We’ll take every step to ensure you feel comfortable, pampered, and acknowledged. Begin your refined and cultivated experience here at Gilpin Facial Plastics & Aesthetics.
Symptoms and Signs
Patients may experience both cosmetic and functional symptoms of hollow eyes. Visible signs include:
- Sunken, dark, or hollow areas under one or both eyes
- Sagging upper eyelids
- Overall facial asymmetry
Some patients also report other symptoms such as double vision, bulging eyes, difficulty focusing, or changes in blood circulation.
Treatments for Hollow Eyes
Dermal Fillers
Injected into the tear trough, fillers restore volume, smooth a sunken appearance, and brighten the under eye area by reducing dark shadows. This non-surgical option provides immediate results with minimal downtime.
Facial Fat Transfer
For patients seeking a natural, long-term solution, facial fat transfer uses your own fat cells to fill hollow eyes. By carefully harvesting and transferring fat from another area of the body, Dr. Gilpin can restore lost volume and improve skin tone.
Lower Blepharoplasty
When hollow eyes are combined with sagging skin or sagging upper eyelids, eyelid surgery (specifically lower blepharoplasty) may be recommended. This surgical approach can reposition fat, tighten delicate skin, and address a tear trough deformity.
PATIENT REVIEWS
Benefits of Professional Treatment
While home remedies and lifestyle changes can help reduce the appearance of sunken eyes, professional treatment provides predictable and lasting results. Effective treatments at Gilpin Facial Plastics not only restore volume but also address underlying causes, such as fat loss, blood vessel changes beneath the skin, or structural changes in the eye socket.
What to Expect During Treatment
Results in
2-3 weeks
Recovery
1-2 weeks
Lasts
12-18 months
Before recommending any treatment, Dr. Gilpin will carefully review your medical history, perform a detailed eye and facial exam, and may order lab tests if a medical condition or sinus infection is suspected. During your consultation, your skin tone, facial structure, and desired results will guide the treatment plan.
read moreDavid Gilpin, MD
Dr. David Gilpin is a native of Nashville, TN. After graduating from Vanderbilt University with a degree in Biomedical Engineering, Dr. Gilpin pursued his M.D. from The University of Tennessee…
Meet The DoctorNext Steps
If you are concerned about the appearance of sunken eyes, tear trough hollows, or dark circles, schedule a consultation with Dr. Gilpin. Whether caused by aging, congenital conditions, or a medical condition, we can help identify the root cause and recommend the most effective treatments to refresh your appearance and restore confidence.
HAVE A QUESTION?
Are you looking to enhance your appearance and boost your confidence? Complete this form to learn more or schedule a consultation with one of our experts at our Nashville, TN office. From facial plastic surgery to lasers & aesthetics, we offer a variety of services that help you put your best face forward.
Ask a QuestionDr. David Gilpin is Nashville’s most accomplished dual board-certified facial plastic surgeon and founder of Gilpin Facial Plastics, the city’s largest facial plastic surgery and medspa practice. With advanced fellowship training under one of the world’s leading experts in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Gilpin is renowned for delivering natural, personalized results through both surgical and non-surgical facial procedures. Featured in Nashville Lifestyles, recognized as a RealSelf Top Doctor, and a national speaker, Dr. Gilpin is trusted by A-list clients and peers alike for his unparalleled expertise and compassionate care. His leadership and reputation firmly establish him as the most qualified and sought-after facial plastic surgeon in Nashville, TN







