Tear troughs are the dark circles or hollows under the eyes that can make a person look tired or older. They may result from genetic factors or natural aging and are often more prominent in people with darker skin types. The appearance is due to volume loss under the eyes, skin laxity, and sometimes pigmentation.
Dermal fillers, typically containing hyaluronic acid (HA), are used to address volume loss in the tear trough area. HA is naturally found in the body and helps hydrate and cushion tissues, but it decreases with age. Fillers like Restylane or Juvederm are preferred for this area because they can be dissolved if necessary. Fillers are particularly effective in restoring volume and giving a more youthful, refreshed look to the under-eye area.
Non-permanent fillers containing HA are recommended for the tear troughs. The injector’s skill is crucial, as the skin under the eyes is very thin and prone to visible lumps if too much filler is used. Only experienced medical professionals should perform this treatment, as the delicate eye area is complex.
Procedure and Side Effects
The procedure usually involves applying a topical anaesthetic and then injecting filler with a cannula, which minimizes bruising. Common side effects include temporary swelling, redness, and bruising, which usually resolve in a few days. Ice and cannula use can help reduce bruising.
Aftercare and Expected Results
You’ll notice some immediate improvement, but optimal results appear after 4-6 weeks, as swelling subsides. Aftercare includes avoiding saunas, hot baths, and rubbing the area, along with drinking plenty of water to aid hydration. Results generally last 6-12 months, depending on skin care and lifestyle habits.
In unsuitable candidates, tear trough fillers can result in adverse outcomes such as:
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Alternatives for Non-Ideal Candidates
For those who aren’t suitable for fillers, other options include PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin), or polynucleotide treatments, which stimulate collagen and elastin production to thicken eyelid skin, reducing lines and wrinkles without fillers.
Tear trough fillers are a minimally invasive solution for addressing under-eye hollows and dark circles. By using hyaluronic acid-based fillers, this treatment restores lost volume and enhances the under-eye area for a refreshed and brighter appearance.
Hyaluronic acid fillers are injected with precision into the tear trough area to add volume, smooth out the region, and minimize shadows that contribute to dark circles.
If you struggle with tired-looking eyes, under-eye hollows, or persistent dark circles caused by volume loss, this treatment could be ideal for you. A consultation will confirm your suitability.
The entire treatment usually lasts between 30 and 45 minutes, including the application of numbing cream.
To ensure comfort, a topical anaesthetic is applied before the procedure. Most people find the treatment easy to tolerate.
You’ll notice an improvement immediately after the treatment, although minor swelling or redness may slightly obscure the final outcome for a short time.
The effects typically last for about 12 months, although this can vary depending on factors like your metabolism and lifestyle.
There’s no significant downtime. Some people experience mild swelling or bruising, but these side effects usually fade within a few days.
Yes, they are very safe when administered by an experienced professional. Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the body, reducing the risk of adverse reactions.
Minor side effects include redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. Rarely, uneven results or lumps may occur, but these are typically easy to correct.
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Dr Lisa Fay
MB BCh BAO, DCH, MRCGP, HDip Derm, MSc Derm, BTEC, FPC, MBACD
Dr Lisa Fay is the founder of CosmeticDoctor.ie. She has over 20 years of clinical experience and has been performing aesthetic treatments for over 16 years.
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