Upper lid hollows refer to a sunken or scooped-out appearance in the upper eyelid area, between the eyelid crease and the brow. This loss of volume can cause the eyes to look tired, aged, or even skeletal. In some cases, upper lid hollowing also exposes more of the orbital rim (the bone surrounding the eye), which can create an overly deep-set eye appearance.
At her oculoplastic surgery practice in Irvine, Dr. Melanie Ho Erb offers advanced, non-surgical and surgical treatment options for upper lid hollows, helping patients across Orange County and Los Angeles restore youthful eyelid volume and eye contour.
Dr. Erb performed eyelid surgery and ptosis to remedy drooping eyelids and brows. Photo posted is 4 months post-surgery. I am thrilled. I feel “awake” and I often don’t even bother with makeup, it’s that much of a difference. I would recommend her to everyone. She is so friendly, knowledgable and extremely professional–as is her staff.
What Causes Upper Eyelid Hollows?
There are several causes of hollowing in the upper eyelids:
Aging and Fat Loss
As we age, the natural fat pads in the upper eyelids shrink and shift, creating hollowness.
Genetics
Some people have naturally deep-set or hollow upper eyelids due to family genes.
Excessive Blepharoplasty
Over-removal of fat during previous eyelid surgery can lead to a hollowed, sunken look.
Significant Weight Loss
Can contribute to volume depletion in delicate facial areas like the upper lids.
Bone Changes
The eye socket bones can recede slightly over time, making the hollows appear more pronounced.
According to a study published in Aesthetic Surgery Journal, over 40% of patients seeking eyelid rejuvenation present with upper lid hollowing as a primary concern.
Why Are Upper Lid Hollows a Cosmetic Concern?
Hollow upper eyelids can create:
- A tired or unhealthy appearance
- Aging around the eyes, even when the rest of the face looks youthful
- Asymmetry or uneven upper lid creases
- A skeletonized look, where the eye socket becomes overly visible
- Reduced space for makeup application or eyelid definition
For many patients in Irvine and Los Angeles, correcting upper lid hollows helps restore facial harmony and a more refreshed, vibrant gaze.
Upper Lid Hollow Treatment Options in Irvine
Dr. Erb offers personalized treatments to address upper eyelid hollowness, depending on your facial anatomy and aesthetic goals:
Dermal Fillers
Hyaluronic acid fillers such as Restylane® or Belotero® can be delicately injected to:
- Restore natural volume to the upper eyelids
- Create a smoother, more youthful lid contour
- Minimize the exposed orbital rim
- Balance the upper face and eyelid symmetry
This treatment requires advanced precision and is only recommended when performed by a specialist with extensive experience in oculoplastic procedures.
Fat Grafting
In cases of severe volume loss or post-surgical hollowing, autologous fat transfer may offer longer-lasting and more natural restoration.
Revisional Eyelid Surgery
For patients who developed upper lid hollows after a prior blepharoplasty, surgical correction may involve repositioning or replacing volume using your own fat or filler.
Why Choose Dr. Melanie Ho Erb for Upper Lid Hollow Correction
As a double board-certified oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Erb is highly trained in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of eyelid anatomy.
Patients throughout Irvine, Orange County, and Los Angeles trust Dr. Erb because she:
- Uses a conservative, natural-looking approach
- Has performed thousands of successful eyelid procedures
- Offers honest, thorough evaluations and recommendations
- Focuses on patient safety, comfort, and long-term results
Restore Energy and Youthfulness to Your Upper Eyelids
If hollow upper eyelids are making your eyes look tired or aged, safe and effective treatment is available. Dr. Melanie Ho Erb offers advanced solutions to restore upper eyelid volume and help you look refreshed and vibrant.
Schedule your consultation today to learn how you can treat upper lid hollows in Irvine, Orange County, and Los Angeles.
Medically reviewed by Melanie Ho Erb, M.D. on