Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 7/7/2025

Periocular Rejuvenation Guidelines

Introduction to Periocular Rejuvenation

  • Periocular rejuvenation involves various treatments to improve the appearance of the periocular area, including topical treatments, lid exercises, and injectable fillers, with the goal of enhancing the overall aesthetic of the eye area 1, 2, 3

Topical Treatments

  • Preservative-free hyaluronic acid eye drops can improve hydration and appearance of the periocular area, and should be applied 2-4 times daily using formulations with higher hyaluronate percentage for better efficacy, as recommended by dermatology experts 1, 2

Lid Exercises

  • Vertical lid massage and stretching can improve appearance of hooded eyes, and should be performed daily for optimal results, according to the British Journal of Dermatology 3

Patient Assessment and Pre-Treatment Care

  • Patients with pre-existing eye disease should be co-managed with an ophthalmologist before any periocular treatment, and ocular lubricants should be considered as preventative care during any periocular treatments, as suggested by the British Journal of Dermatology 2

Injectable Fillers

  • The use of Sculptra in the glabella region is associated with significant safety concerns and risk of vascular complications, including tissue necrosis and vision loss, due to the unique vascular anatomy of the area 4
  • The American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery recommends avoiding the use of Sculptra in the glabella region due to the high risk of vascular complications and vision loss, and instead suggests the use of safer alternatives such as neurotoxins, hyaluronic acid fillers, or autologous platelet concentrates 4
  • Neurotoxins are considered a first-line treatment for dynamic glabellar lines, and are a safer alternative to Sculptra in this region 5
  • Hyaluronic acid fillers can be used in the glabella region, but only by highly experienced injectors with proper precautions, and are considered a safer alternative to Sculptra 5
  • Autologous platelet concentrates, such as platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), may be a safer option for periocular rejuvenation, with emerging evidence suggesting its potential benefits, and are considered a safer alternative to Sculptra in this region 5

Post-Treatment Care

  • Schedule assessment at 2 weeks post-treatment, provide preservative-free artificial tears if dryness occurs, and seek immediate ophthalmologic evaluation for any vision changes, eye pain, or significant asymmetry, as part of standard post-treatment protocol 2
  • Patients should be monitored for potential complications, including vascular occlusion, skin necrosis, or vision loss, especially when using injectable fillers in the glabella region 4, 5