Bags under eyes

I suffer from horrible, dark bags under my eyes. They run in my family and make me look tired and stressed when I am not. They also make me look about ten years older. Please tell me what procedures are available to help me with this problem. I have never had a procedure done and I am not necessarily a vain person, but it is really starting to affect my self esteem as I get older. I am now 40 and look 50. I appreciate any information. Thank-you.

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

Consult with a plastic surgeon.  Often a lower lid lift will correct the problem, but the details of your situation need to be evaluated (i.e. could this be the result of excess lower fat with shadowing or is there actually a pigmentation problem).