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Malar Bags
Malar bags, also known as malar mounds, are soft swellings on the upper cheeks, located just below the eyes. They are not harmful but can make the face look tired or puffy, and may affect confidence for some people.
Experts at the Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds use trusted methods to help reduce malar mounds and swelling, restoring a fresher, smoother look to your face.
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What are Malar Bags?
Malar bags, also known as malar mounds, are soft, swollen areas that appear on the upper cheeks, just under the lower eyelids. They often appear as small, puffy mounds and can give the face a tired, puffy, or aged appearance.
The mild puffiness or fluid retention may progress to festoons (a severe form of malar bags), characterised by loose skin, permanent swelling, and impaired lymphatic drainage.
Unlike regular eye bags, which sit directly under the eyes, malar bags are located slightly lower, over the top part of the cheekbones. They may look severe in the morning and improve later in the day.
Malar bags are not medically harmful, but they may affect the appearance of the face and may cause discomfort for some individuals. You may try lymph massage to reduce their appearance.
Important Note: Treatments such as dermal fillers or Botox®, typically used for under-eye hollows, may not help malar bags if not carefully assessed by an experienced practitioner.
Causes of Malar Mounds
Several factors contribute to the formation of malar mounds. They include:
Ageing
Skin and muscles get weaker over time, leading to sagging and puffiness.
Fluid Build-up
Fluid can collect in the cheek area, especially after sleeping or eating salty foods.
Impaired Lymphatic Drainage
When lymph flow is blocked or slowed, fluid accumulates in the upper cheeks, which can lead to the appearance of malar mounds.
Genetics
They may run in families and appear earlier in some people.
Sun Damage
Excessive sun exposure breaks down collagen, causing the skin to become thinner and looser.
Loss of Facial Fat
This may make the cheek area look more swollen.
Lifestyle Factors
Smoking, poor sleep, and dehydration can make them worse.
Medicines or Allergies
Some medicines or allergic reactions can cause swelling.
These causes often overlap and can intensify with time.
Symptoms of Malar Mounds
- Soft, swollen lumps on the upper cheeks, just below the eyes.
- Facial heaviness or mild discomfort
- Puffy or tired-looking face.
- There may be severe swelling in the morning, which may improve during the day.
- Uneven or droopy skin around the cheek area.
- Sometimes, mild discomfort or heaviness is experienced in the affected area.
Malar bags or Festoons usually do not cause pain, but may affect how the face looks and feels.
Malar Bags Treatment : Advanced Options
At Yorkshire Skin Centre, we offer both non-invasive and surgical solutions tailored to your needs. A personalised consultation with Dr Raj Thethi or Mr Jeeva will determine the best course of action.
By combining these procedures, a mummy makeover offers a comprehensive approach to address the various changes that can occur during pregnancy and childbirth. It allows women to target multiple areas of concern in a single surgery, minimising downtime and achieving more dramatic and harmonious results.
HydraFacial
HydraFacial deeply cleanses and exfoliates the skin, along with gentle lymphatic drainage. This helps freshen up the skin and reduce the appearance of mild malar bags.
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LaserTite (AccuTite + UltraClear™)
LaserTite combines AccuTite and UltraClear laser coring for a powerful treatment that tightens skin, reduces swelling, and reshapes the area with minimal scarring and quick recovery.
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Dermal Fillers
Strategic filler placement can restore volume and support mid-face structures, improving the appearance of malar mounds in selected cases.
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Lower Blepharoplasty
Festoons may be addressed with lower blepharoplasty or lower eyelid surgery. It may involve removing excess skin and fat to create a smoother, firmer look.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can malar bags be prevented?
While you can’t always prevent malar bags, you can reduce the risk by protecting your skin from sun damage, avoiding smoking, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy diet low in salt.
What are the first treatment options for mild malar mounds?
At first, non-invasive treatments like HydraFacial, which gently cleanse and aid in lymphatic drainage, are preferred for very minor cases.
Are injections like steroids or fat-dissolvers helpful?
In selected cases, yes. These may reduce inflammation or swelling, but are not first-line treatments.
Can malar bags disappear?
Malar bags usually don’t disappear on their own. They may experience temporary improvement with rest or reduced fluid retention, but lasting improvement often requires treatment.
How can I naturally tighten my malar bags?
The natural tightening of malar bags is limited, but you may incorporate good skincare, gentle facial exercises, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep. Protecting your skin from the sun and avoiding smoking also helps. However, natural methods usually have mild effects compared to professional treatments.
What is the best treatment for malar bags?
LaserTite (AccuTite + UltraClear) is one of the most effective treatments, tightening skin and reducing puffiness. UltraClear is also great for milder cases alone. Your doctor will recommend the best option based on your skin.
Are treatments for malar bags painful?
Most treatments are well tolerated. We use numbing creams or local anaesthetics to keep you comfortable during procedures. Some treatments may cause mild discomfort, but it is usually short-lived.
How long does it take to see results after treatment?
Results vary depending on the treatment. Some, such as fillers or LaserTite, can show improvements quickly, while others, like laser therapy, may take several weeks to fully take effect.
Can malar bags come back after treatment?
Yes, malar bags can return, especially with ageing or lifestyle changes. Regular follow-ups and good skincare can help maintain results
How soon can I see the final results of a mummy makeover?
While some initial results will be visible immediately after surgery, it takes time for
swelling to subside and for the body to fully heal. You can expect to see the final results
of a mummy makeover within several months as the body continues to settle and adjust.
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