Festoons: Understanding, Treating, and Reducing Malar Bags Non-Surgically

Festoons, commonly referred to as malar bags, are a distinct yet often misunderstood aesthetic concern that affects the mid-face region. Unlike traditional under-eye puffiness caused by fluid retention or lack of sleep, festoons present as swollen, sagging pouches on the upper cheek area, often extending beneath the lower eyelid. They can create an aged or fatigued appearance, making them a key concern for individuals seeking facial rejuvenation.

The formation of festoons is multifactorial, with contributing elements including:

• Lymphatic Dysfunction – Impaired lymphatic drainage in the mid-face can lead to fluid accumulation, causing persistent puffiness.
• Age-Related Volume Loss – As we age, collagen and elastin fibers degrade, leading to skin laxity and structural weakness in the mid-face.
• Genetics – Some individuals have a hereditary predisposition to festoons due to their underlying facial anatomy and skin integrity.
• Chronic Sun Exposure – UV radiation accelerates the breakdown of collagen, weakening the skin’s structural support and exacerbating festoon formation.
• Lifestyle and Environmental Factors – Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and inflammatory diets may contribute to fluid retention and tissue degradation, intensifying the appearance of festoons.

While under-eye bags result from fat pad protrusion beneath the lower eyelid, festoons are more complex, involving a combination of fluid retention, skin laxity, and weakened structural support in the mid-face. They often require a multi-faceted approach for effective management.

Given the structural complexity of festoons, effective treatment requires a tailored approach, combining advanced aesthetic technology with clinical expertise. At Body Sculpting Clinics, we offer non-invasive solutions designed to tighten, lift, and rejuvenate the mid-face without the need for surgery.

1. HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)

HIFU is a cutting-edge treatment that delivers precise ultrasound energy to targeted depths within the skin, stimulating collagen production and tightening lax tissues. For festoons, HIFU helps to:

• Improve skin elasticity and firmness
• Reduce fluid accumulation by stimulating lymphatic drainage
• Enhance overall skin texture and mid-face contouring

2. Radiofrequency Skin Tightening

Radiofrequency (RF) therapy uses controlled thermal energy to remodel collagen and improve skin density. It is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing festoons due to skin laxity, as it:

• Promotes neocollagenesis (new collagen formation)
• Increases skin firmness and elasticity
• Improves the overall appearance of sagging or swollen tissue

3. Injectable Therapies & Filler Dissolution

For individuals with volume loss contributing to festoons, strategic dermal filler placement may offer support and structural enhancement. However, injectables must be approached with precision, ensuring the mid-face is subtly lifted without exacerbating swelling. In cases where excess or misplaced dermal filler is contributing to festoons, dissolving the filler with hyaluronidase is often necessary as the first step before further treatment. Our trained clinicians assess facial anatomy holistically to recommend the most suitable approach.

4. LED Light Therapy for Inflammation Reduction

Low-level LED therapy can aid in reducing inflammation and promoting skin healing, making it an excellent adjunctive treatment for festoon management. By enhancing cellular regeneration and reducing oxidative stress, LED therapy supports long-term skin resilience.

At Body Sculpting Clinics, we combine clinical expertise with advanced non-invasive technologies to deliver results-driven aesthetic solutions. Our practitioners assess each client’s unique facial structure, skin integrity, and concerns before tailoring a bespoke treatment plan. With a commitment to evidence-based practice and cutting-edge techniques, we ensure our clients receive scientifically backed solutions that prioritise efficacy and safety.

At Body Sculpting Clinics, we specialise in non-invasive aesthetic treatments that deliver visible, clinically proven results. Our team of experienced professionals assesses each client’s facial structure holistically, ensuring a tailored treatment plan that aligns with their unique skin concerns.

Festoons can be challenging to treat, but with advanced non-surgical solutions, noticeable improvements are possible. If you’re experiencing festoons or mid-face puffiness, our expert team can guide you through the most effective treatment options.

To book a consultation and explore how we can help, visit Body Sculpting Clinics today.