Welcome to an in-depth exploration of tear trough filler procedures: the transformative solution to rejuvenating the under eyes. In this blog, we will discuss what the tear trough is and how filler in this area can help you achieve a fresher, more rested appearance. We will include some of our tear trough filler before and after images to showcase the results we can achieve. Read on if you want to say goodbye to tired-looking eyes!
Where is the tear trough?
The tear trough (pronounced tee-uhh troff) is a term that describes the area under the eyes where a hollow or depression can sometimes develop. It is located between the lower eyelid and the upper cheek. The tear trough can appear more prominent due to various factors, including genetics, ageing, loss of facial fat, and volume depletion.
Tear trough deformities often manifest as a hollow or sunken area beneath the eyes. The hollowing of the tear trough can give the appearance of dark circles or bags under the eyes, making a person look tired or older. You can see examples of this in our tear trough filler before and after images. It is a common concern for many individuals seeking cosmetic improvement and wanting a fresher, more youthful look.
Which treatment options are available for tear trough deformities?
The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the issue and individual preferences. The two mainstays of treatment are:
- Tear Trough Fillers: This non-invasive treatment is popular and works well for many people. It involves injecting dermal fillers, typically containing hyaluronic acid, into the hollow area to add volume and reduce the appearance of dark circles and shadows. Our tear trough filler before and after images showcase the fantastic results that can be achieved.
- Lower Blepharoplasty: Surgeons often use this surgical procedure for more severe cases. They remove excess skin, reposition or remove fat, and tighten the skin to address both bags and hollows.
Other treatments can help alongside the above treatments but will not show much improvement when used alone for tear trough deformities. These are:
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy uses a patient’s own blood components to stimulate collagen production, improving the appearance of the tear trough area.
- Fractional Laser Resurfacing: Laser treatments can improve skin texture and pigmentation issues in the under-eye area, complementing other treatments.
- Topical Creams and Serums: Some prescription creams and serums can reduce the appearance of dark circles and improve skin quality. To find out more about which products can help, book in for a free, virtual skincare consultation with Dr Randhawa.
- Microneedling: This procedure uses tiny needles to stimulate collagen production, helping improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of hollows.
- Chemical Peels: Superficial chemical peels can improve skin quality and reduce pigmentation irregularities in the tear trough area. In clinic, Dr Randhawa offers the Obagi Blue Radiance Peel.
The mark up process
Will tear trough filler work for me?
It is not for everyone and a good injector will be able to assess who is a good and bad candidate.
Common characteristics of suitable candidates include:
- Hollow or sunken tear troughs: Individuals with a noticeable concave area or depressions under their eyes may benefit from tear trough filler treatment. Examples of this can be seen by reviewing our tear trough filler before and after photos.
- Mild to moderate dark circles: Those with mild to moderate dark circles due to hollowing or a genetic predisposition can benefit from tear trough fillers. The treatment can help to conceal the darkened areas by restoring volume.
- Minimal skin laxity: Tear trough fillers work best for individuals with good skin elasticity and minimal excess skin. If significant skin sagging is present, other procedures like lower blepharoplasty may be more appropriate. Prior to the procedure, medical-grade skincare may be necessary for clients to optimize the skin in the tear trough area before injecting the dermal filler.
- Realistic expectations: It’s important for candidates to have reasonable expectations about the potential outcomes of the treatment. While it can provide significant improvement, it may not completely eliminate all under-eye concerns. You can look at our tear trough filler before and after photos to see the results you can expect.
- Generally good health: Candidates should be in good overall health and not have any contraindications to receiving dermal filler injections, such as allergies to the filler material.
Who should not have it done?
Although tear trough filler can effectively treat many individuals, certain cases may not warrant its recommendation. People who fall into the following categories may not be suitable candidates for tear trough filler:
- People whose dark circles are due to skin discolouration rather than due to the shadowing from a hollow.
- Under eye bags due to individual anatomy or age.
- Saggy skin under the eye or eyelids.
- Allergies or sensitivities to filler components: If you have a known allergy or sensitivity to the components of the filler, such as hyaluronic acid or lidocaine, you should avoid filler injections.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should generally avoid elective cosmetic procedures, including tear trough filler. Limited safety data exists regarding the use of fillers in these situations.
- Unrealistic expectations: Individuals who have unrealistic expectations about the outcome may not be suitable candidates. Realistic results can be seen by looking at our tear trough filler before and after photos.
Which tear trough filler is best?
Each filler on the market has its own unique characteristics which makes it appealing. However, the best fillers for the tear trough area mimic the natural collagen characteristics, cause minimal water absorption and swelling, are light and easy to inject, and have a good safety profile backed up with solid scientific evidence. We use Teoxane RHA 2 which we believe is the best on the market for the tear trough area and gives the best tear trough filler before and after results.
How much tear trough filler will I need?
This will depends on a few factors:
- Severity of the Issue: If you have mild hollowness or dark circles, you may require less filler. More significant hollowness may necessitate a larger volume of filler.
- Treatment Goals: Your desired outcome plays a vital role. Some individuals prefer a subtle enhancement, while others seek a more dramatic change. Examples of this difference can be seen in our tear trough filler before and after photos.
- Anatomical Considerations: Your unique facial anatomy, including the depth of the tear trough, will influence the required amount of filler.
- Product Used: Different fillers have varying concentrations and properties, which can affect the amount needed.
In the world of aesthetic procedures, it’s easy to get caught up with the number of mls of filler used.
However, every person is unique, and so is their facial structure, skin quality, and desired outcome. What might be the perfect amount of product for one individual may not be the same for another. Aesthetic procedures are as much an art as they are a science. Rather than fixating on the number of mls, it’s essential to trust the experience and artistic skill of your chosen practitioner. When looking at our tear trough filler before and after photos, you will not be able to tell which client has had 0.2mls and which one has had 0.6mls, you will only be appreciating the end result.
Injecting the tear trough filler
How is tear trough filler done?
We administer the filler through a minimally invasive and carefully planned procedure.
Here are the steps:
Consultation: The process will begin with a consultation with Dr Dhillon, our lead of injectables at The Aesthetics Doctors. During this consultation, he will discuss your specific concerns and goals, and will develop a treatment plan.
Cleansing: Before the procedure, he will thoroughly cleanse the under-eye area to ensure a sterile environment.
Anaesthetic: He may apply a topical anaesthetic or local anaesthetic to numb the treatment area, ensuring your comfort during the procedure or the filler itself may have anaesthetic in it.
Injection: Using a fine needle or cannula, he precisely injects the dermal filler into the tear trough area, adding volume to reduce hollowness and diminish the appearance of dark circles.
Massage and Moulding: Dr Dhillon may gently massage and mould the filler to ensure an even distribution and the desired result.
Assessment: We will assess the results with you to determine if any adjustments are necessary.
Recovery: Following the procedure, you may experience some swelling, redness, or mild bruising. This is normal and usually subsides within a few days.
Follow-up: It’s essential to attend any scheduled follow-up appointments to evaluate the results and make any necessary adjustments. This is also when we take our follow up images for the tear trough filler before and after photos.
Here is Dr Dhillon performing a tear trough filler procedure
How long does tear trough filler last?
The duration of results can vary depending on several factors, including the specific filler used, individual metabolism, lifestyle factors, and the amount of filler injected.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, which are commonly used for tear trough rejuvenation, are gradually broken down and absorbed by the body over time. The longevity of HA fillers can depend on the specific brand and formulation. Some HA fillers are designed to be longer-lasting and provide results for up to 12-18 months. The tear trough filler we use in clinic Teoxane RHA 2 lasts 12 months on average. However, it’s important to note that these estimates are approximate and individual results may vary.
Is the procedure painful?
The level of discomfort or pain experienced during the procedure can vary from person to person, however, most individuals report they experienced only minimal discomfort. During the treatment you may feel a slight pressure or pulling and tugging of the tissue.Some individuals may experience a brief pinch or stinging sensation. Overall people tolerate the procedure very well and all the clients in our tear trough filler before and after tab commented that the benefits of achieving a refreshed and rejuvenated under-eye appearance outweighs the temporary discomfort experienced during the treatment.
Is tear trough filler safe?
It is generally deemed safe when administered by a qualified and experienced aesthetic practitioner. Nevertheless, similar to any medical procedure, there are potential risks and considerations to bear in mind:
Practitioner’s Expertise: Safety is largely contingent on the experience and proficiency of the aesthetic practitioner. It’s vital to select a reputable and qualified practitioner specialising in dermal fillers with expertise in tear trough treatments. Our injectable lead at the Aesthetics Doctors is Dr Dhillon, he has extensive expertise and a surgical background.
Product Selection: The type of filler employed is also pivotal. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers, such as Teoxane RHA 2, are commonly utilised for tear trough treatments and are generally considered safe. However, the safety and effectiveness of the product can hinge on its quality and the reputation of the manufacturer. We use Teoxane RHA 2 which is the most reputable product on the market for tear trough procedures.
Consultation and Assessment: A comprehensive consultation with your aesthetic practitioner is imperative. We will evaluate your specific requirements, deliberate potential risks, and confirm your suitability for the procedure.
Potential Side Effects: Common side effects can encompass temporary swelling, bruising, redness, and discomfort. These side effects usually subside within a few days to a week.
Infection and Allergic Reactions: Though infrequent, there is a risk of infection or allergic reactions to the filler. To minimise these risks, it’s crucial to select a sterile and reputable clinic and discuss any allergies or sensitivities with your practitioner.
Undesired Outcomes: Tear trough filler treatments are reversible using hyaluronidase, an enzyme that dissolves hyaluronic acid fillers. This serves as a vital safety feature in the rare event the procedure needs reversal.
Post-Treatment Care: Complying with the aftercare instructions furnished by us is pivotal to ensure a secure and effective outcome. We will generally follow you up after two weeks. This is also when we take our follow up images for the tear trough filler before and after photos.
By and large, when carried out by a proficient practitioner and with the suitable precautions, tear trough filler is a safe and effective means of addressing under-eye hollowness and dark circles. It is indispensable to conduct thorough research, undergo a consultation with a qualified provider, and make an informed decision about the treatment. Examining tear trough filler before and after photos of the practitioner’s work is an essential part of the decision making process.
Can tear trough filler go wrong?
Yes, tear trough filler treatments can go wrong if not performed correctly and by an experienced aesthetic practitioner. Potential issues and complications can include:
Overfilling: Injecting too much filler can result in an overfilled or unnatural appearance. This can make the under-eye area appear swollen or puffy.
Vascular Complications: In rare cases, a practitioner may inadvertently inject the filler into a blood vessel, leading to blockages or complications. This can potentially cause tissue damage or visual disturbances.
Infection: If the practitioner doesn’t follow proper hygiene and sterilisation procedures, there is a risk of infection at the injection site.
Asymmetry: If the filler does not distribute evenly, it can lead to an uneven or asymmetrical appearance.
Allergic Reactions: While uncommon, some individuals may have allergic reactions to the filler substance.
Tyndall Effect: A bluish or greyish tint under the eyes, known as the Tyndall effect, can occur if the filler is too superficial.
While complications are possible with any cosmetic procedure, the key to a successful and satisfying tear trough filler treatment lies in choosing a qualified and experienced practitioner. With the right healthcare professional, you can achieve a natural and rejuvenated under-eye appearance. You can see examples of our work by reviewing our tear trough filler before and after photos.
Can tear trough filler be dissolved?
Yes, you can dissolve tear trough filler. An enzyme known as hyaluronidase breaks down and dissolves hyaluronic acid-based fillers. This allows for adjustments or corrections in rare cases if the results are not as desired or if there are any complications. The process is typically straightforward and is performed by a qualified practitioner to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Are the results instant?
Yes, tear trough filler results are typically immediate, with an instant improvement in the appearance of hollowness and dark circles. However, it’s important to note that dermal fillers, including those used for tear troughs, continue to work and settle over the next few weeks. During this time, any initial swelling and minor bruising gradually subside. You will see the optimal and final results are usually seen a few weeks after the procedure, once the filler has fully integrated with the surrounding tissues and any temporary side effects have resolved. These tear trough filler before and after images are taken two weeks after the procedure at the review appointment.
What are the results like?
Click here to see some of our tear trough filler before and after photos.
In conclusion, tear trough fillers are a transformative solution for individuals looking to rejuvenate their under-eye appearance. As skilled and experienced doctors we will tailor the procedure to meet your individual needs and aesthetic goals. Reviewing our tear trough filler before and after photos is key in deciding whether results like these is what you would be satisfied with.
If you would like to find out more about tear trough fillers and whether the procedure is right for you, please book in for a free, virtual consultation with Dr Dhillon. Following this consultation, we will see you face to face in our clinic in Birmingham.