Eyelid aesthetics have become an increasingly popular procedure among both women and men to address problems such as sagging, wrinkles, and excess skin that appear with the aging process. However, not everyone may be open to surgical operations or may prefer alternative methods due to the long recovery period. At this point, cold plasma technology offers a non-surgical, fast, and effective aesthetic solution. This method, used for skin rejuvenation and tightening, provides a natural rejuvenating effect, especially in sensitive areas such as the eyelids. Because it does not require surgical intervention, has a short recovery time, and allows patients to quickly return to their daily routines, cold plasma stands out as one of the leading modern medical aesthetic treatments.
What Is Cold Plasma Technology?
Cold plasma is a form of energy that creates a controlled thermal effect when applied to the skin’s surface. This energy, produced by ionizing the air, generates an electric arc between the tip of the device and the skin. Through this arc, the outermost layer of the skin is vaporized at a micro level while superficial thermal damage occurs simultaneously. This process triggers the skin’s natural healing mechanism. The skin renews itself, tightens, and gains a smoother appearance. There is no direct contact with the skin during the procedure, which increases the safety of the treatment.
How Is Cold Plasma Technology Used in Eyelid Aesthetics?
During cold plasma application, the tip of the device does not come into direct contact with the skin; instead, controlled energy transfer is achieved through the plasma arc formed between the device and the skin. This energy vaporizes the upper layer of the skin in the targeted area at a micrometric level.
As a result of this procedure, minimal and superficial damage occurs on the skin. Due to the thermal effects generated, the skin tightens, elasticity increases, and collagen production is stimulated. In this way, not only a temporary tightening but also a long-term regeneration process begins in the eyelids. Fine wrinkles on the eyelids are reduced, and the skin texture appears smoother and younger.
The cold plasma method can be applied to both the upper and lower eyelid areas. On the upper eyelid, it is preferred to reduce excess skin and relieve the heaviness above the eyes, while on the lower eyelid, it is used to correct puffiness and reduce wrinkles. Generally, 1 to 3 sessions are sufficient; however, the number of sessions may vary depending on the person’s age, skin structure, and the degree of sagging. Even after the first session, visible improvement can be observed, but the most noticeable results usually become evident within 2 to 4 weeks after the procedure. With the regeneration of collagen, the tightening of the skin continues over time, and the effects of the treatment can last for several months. Therefore, it provides both immediate satisfaction and a long-term anti-aging effect.
How Is Cold Plasma Applied to the Eyelid?
Before the procedure begins, a topical cream with a local anesthetic effect is applied to the treatment area. This anesthetic cream is usually left on for 20–30 minutes. In this way, the patient does not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure. Since there is no surgical incision or stitching involved, there is also no risk of bleeding. The procedure can be completed in approximately 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated and the structure of the skin. The cold plasma device operates without direct contact with the skin surface. During the application, small brown microdots appear on the treated area. These dots are the visible result of the microthermal effect created on the skin’s surface.
After the procedure, mild swelling (edema), redness, and micro-crusting may occur on the skin. These effects are considered part of the body’s natural healing process and usually subside on their own within 5 to 7 days. As the crusts fall off, healthier, brighter, and tighter skin from the underlying layers becomes visible. During this healing process, it is important to follow certain guidelines. Since the treated area becomes sensitive to sunlight, direct sun exposure should be avoided, and a high-SPF sunscreen should be used. Similarly, contact with water should be limited, and excessively hot environments (such as saunas or steam baths) should be avoided. Moisturizers, antibacterial creams, or healing support products recommended by the doctor should be applied regularly.
Forcing the crusts to fall off prematurely can lead to scarring, so this process should be allowed to occur naturally. Although returning to social life is generally possible the next day after the procedure, it is advisable to wait until the crusts have completely fallen off for optimal aesthetic appearance. During this period, concealing cosmetic products can be used in moderation and only with the doctor’s approval.
Who Is Not Suitable for Cold Plasma Eyelid Treatment?
The cold plasma procedure is a safe and effective option for individuals seeking non-surgical aesthetic solutions. It can achieve successful results, especially in people with mild to moderate eyelid sagging, reduced skin elasticity, fine wrinkles, and excess skin around the eyes. Through this treatment, the eye area can appear firmer, younger, and more refreshed.
Generally, individuals over the age of 30 can achieve visible improvement even after a single session, provided their skin structure is suitable. For those with good skin elasticity, the skin recovers more quickly, increases collagen production, and achieves a more pronounced tightening effect. Additionally, for individuals with a busy lifestyle who wish to avoid downtime, the short recovery period offers a significant advantage. This method is also frequently preferred by those who are hesitant about surgery or do not wish to undergo anesthesia.
However, in some cases, the cold plasma procedure may not be sufficient. In individuals with severe eyelid sagging, where the excess skin obstructs the visual field, this method may not meet expectations. In such cases, surgical blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is recommended to achieve more effective and long-lasting results.
Because cold plasma is only effective on the superficial layers of the skin, it should be noted that conditions involving significant excess skin or sagging of the muscle tissue require intervention in deeper structures. In addition, not every individual is a suitable candidate for this procedure. During periods when hormone levels fluctuate, such as pregnancy and breastfeeding, skin reactions can become unpredictable, so the treatment is generally postponed. Likewise, cold plasma application is not recommended for individuals with active skin infections, viral skin diseases such as herpes, or open wounds or inflammation on the skin.
For individuals with wound healing disorders or a history of keloid scar formation, the risk of complications after the procedure may be higher. Therefore, a detailed dermatological evaluation and a personalized treatment plan are extremely important before the procedure.
Click to learn more about Eyelid Aesthetic Surgery.
