Here's why pesky under-eye bags appear as you age

Washington, Aug 13 : Want to know what causes those pesky under-eye bags? Well, a new study has got the answer for your query.

The study examined why lower eyelids get bulgy with age by looking at the faces of people in three different age groups (12 - 29 years old, 30 - 54, and 55 - to 80) via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

In the research, plastic surgeons discovered that while the rest of the face loses volume with age; lower eyelids actually get fatter.

This significant increase in orbital fat is the primary cause of under-eye bags.

Previous studies have hypothesized that the "bags" were caused by swelling from fluid buildup or sagging/drooping of the eyelid/upper cheek area.

The latest study confirms that excision or removal of the fat, during eyelid surgery, not just repositioning, plays a clear role in the treatment of under eye bags. More than 240,000 eyelid surgeries were performed in 2007, according to ASPS statistics.

ANI