What Are Malar Bags and How Are They Different from Typical Under-Eye Puffiness
Malar bags are a specific type of facial swelling that appears lower and more laterally positioned than typical under-eye puffiness. Rather than sitting directly beneath the lower eyelid, malar bags develop over the upper cheek area, known as the malar region. This distinctive positioning is one of the key features that sets them apart from standard under-eye bags.
The term malar bags refers to three different issues that can be difficult to differentiate. Our specialists at the Ezra Clinic are experts in this area and can help you understand these issues and how best to treat them.
- Malar mounds describe a mound-like swelling in the upper outer cheek area. This is a constant feature and does not change. It is due to a complex interaction of ligaments and areas of fat loss around the cheek. It is often associated with the mid-cheek groove, which is a hollow running diagonally from the inner corner of the eye in a downward and outward direction.
- Malar oedema is a similar feature, but where fluid accumulation is a key feature. This is characterised by fluctuations in bag size, which are typically worse in the morning.
- Festoons represent a more advanced or chronic form of malar swelling. These are often associated with lax, folded skin that creates a characteristic draped appearance over the cheek.
Festoons can be particularly challenging to treat and may worsen over time.
The fundamental difference between malar bags and classic under-eye bags lies in their underlying causes. Traditional under-eye bags typically result from fat prolapse, in which the orbital fat pads protrude through weakened structures around the eye. In contrast, malar bags are primarily caused by fluid retention, ligament laxity, and specific anatomical factors rather than fat displacement alone. This distinction is crucial because it determines which treatment approaches will be effective and which may actually worsen the condition.
