What is Tear Trough Filler? – Uses, Benefits, and Treatment Guide

In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about tear trough fillers, including the benefits, risks, the treatment process and how they compare to surgical options.

What is Tear Trough Filler?

Tear trough filler is a dermal filler treatment that addresses the indentation or hollow area under the eyes, called the tear trough. As time goes on, the fat and collagen that occurs naturally in this region decrease, causing dark circles and a hollow look. Injecting a hyaluronic acid-based filler into this area will restore volume, which reduces shadows and creates a smoother transition area between the lower eyelid and the cheek.

Hyaluronic acid is the most common type of filler used for this procedure because it holds moisture and integrates well with the skin. The treatment can be done rather quickly and is also minimally invasive and typically requires little to no downtime, making it a common choice for aesthetic patients looking to refresh their under-eye area but without surgery.

How Long Does Tear Trough Filler Last?

The longevity of tear trough filler varies based on the type of filler used, a person’s metabolism and lifestyle factors. Average results will last anywhere from 9 to 18 months. Since the area under the eyes has less movement than, say, the lips or cheeks, fillers there will typically break down at a slower rate.

Several factors may affect how long the results last:

• Fillers – In this area, hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane generally last longer.
• Metabolism – Those with a higher metabolism may be able to dissolve the filler at a faster rate.
• Lifestyle factors – Smoking, excessive sun exposure, and poor skin care can accelerate the breakdown of the filler.
• Injection technique – A skilled injector will position the filler in a manner that will maximise longevity and create a result with a natural appearance.

Though effects are not permanent, patients can maintain results with touch-up treatments as needed. Others notice longer-lasting results after multiple treatments since the filler can stimulate collagen over time.

Is Tear Trough Filler Safe?

Yes, tear trough filler is safe when carried out by a trained and experienced practitioner. The best-known example of temporary fillers, hyaluronic acid fillers are biocompatible, and can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if necessary. However, as any cosmetic procedure has risks associated with it.

Common side effects include:

• Mild swelling and bruising — These tend to be temporary and dissipate in a few days.
• Temporary lumpiness – While this is one of the most common side effects, it usually gets better on its own or with gentle massage.
• Bleeding at the injection site – These symptoms will be temporary.

More serious risks, though rare, include:

• Vascular occlusion – If the filler is injected into a blood vessel, it may block blood flow, resulting in complications.
• If placed too superficially, it can create a bluish tint under the skin – referred to as the Tyndall effect.

To reduce risk, always seek a medically trained injector who performs under-eye treatments regularly.

Who is a Good Candidate for Tear Trough Filler?

Tear trough filler is ideal for patients who have:

• Hollow or sunken under-eyes – This can also be due to ageing or genetics.
• Mild to moderate dark circles – Due to volume loss instead of pigmentation.
• Good skin elasticity – Loose or very thin skin may not hold the filler well.
• Realistic expectations – While filler can improve the look of your under-eyes, it won’t take away all the signs of ageing.

Who may not be a good candidate?

• Those with prominent under-eye bags – These are best treated with surgery.
• People with thin, crepey skin — Filler can look more obvious or won’t settle in well.
• People with chronic puffiness or swelling – Filler can increase fluid retention beneath the eyes.

Understanding the Tear Trough Area

The tear trough refers to the hollowed groove that travels from the inner corner of the eye down toward the cheek. This means fat loss, collagen depletion, and alterations in bone structure that come with age form it.

This is a delicate area because:

• The skin is on the thin and sensitive side, it easily bruises.
• There are many blood vessels, which increases the risk of swelling and complications.
• Over time the orbital septum weakens, contributing to under-eye hollows and shadows.
• Due to these complexities, treatment is best performed by a skilled practitioner who knows facial anatomy.

Tear Trough Filler Treatment Process

It usually takes 30 to 45 minutes to complete, and involves the following steps:

1. Consultation – The practitioner will analyse your under-eye area, ask about your goals, and decide whether filler would be a good fit.
2. Preparation – The skin is cleansed, and a numbing cream may be used for pain reduction.
3. Injection – The filler is precisely injected into the tear trough with a fine needle or cannula.
4. Massage – The therapist gently massages the area, providing a smooth integration.
5. Aftercare instructions – Patients should not touch the area too much, avoid hard work and alcohol for 24-48 hours.

Side Effects and Potential Risks

Most side effects are mild, but it’s important to know possible risks. The most common side effect almost always is swelling and bruising, which generally go away in a couple of days. The less common side effects, such as lumpiness or asymmetry, can often be corrected by massaging gently or with more treatment.

In rare instances, more severe complications, including vascular occlusion or infection, may occur. This is why it is important to choose an experienced injector. An expert physician will know how to minimise the risks, how to detect complications early, and will know how to institute corrective action if necessary.

How Does Tear Trough Filler Compare to Surgical Treatments?

Under eye filler, also known as tear trough filler, is an excellent choice for patients looking for a non-surgical approach to treating hollowness under the eyes. It utilises natural volume redistribution, therefore provides quick results with little recovery time, making it an ideal solution for those wanting a refreshed appearance without surgery. But the effects are permanent and need upkeep sessions.

Lower blepharoplasty, a surgical option, is a more permanent solution that removes excessive skin and fat in that area under the eyes. This month we are discussing individuals who have severe under-eye bags or sagging skin — neither of which can be corrected with filler, though it may be better suited for. Surgery requires a longer recovery, generally two to four weeks, but the effects can last a lifetime.

The ability to reverse filler (unlike a surgical procedure) is one of its major advantages. If a patient is dissatisfied with the results, hyaluronic acid filler can be dissolved using hyaluronidase, while surgery is permanent. Furthermore, up front filler is less expensive, although continual results can get costly over time.

Ultimately, filler or surgery comes down to the person’s issues, budget, and goals. People with mild to moderate hollowness may benefit from fillers; those with heavy under-eye bags or sagging will probably have better results with surgery.

Types of Fillers Used for Tear Troughs

The fillers most frequently used for tear troughs are hyaluronic acid-based, including:

• Restylane-L – Recognised for its smooth consistency and ability to integrate naturally.
• Juvederm Volbella – A softer version that delivers a more natural, subtle result.
• Teosyal Redensity II — A hybrid filler designed to be used on the under-eye area, minimising the risk of swelling.

Key Considerations Before Undergoing Tear Trough Treatment

Make sure to think about the following before opting for tear trough filler:

• Pick an experienced injector — A skilled injector is safer and produces more natural results.
• Understand the limitations – Filler works best for volume loss, not pigmentation or excess skin.
• Watch out for risks – While relatively safe, there can be complications if done incorrectly.
• Committing to upkeep — Fillers are temporary, and you need touch-ups over time.

Conclusion

The under-eye area can be rejuvenated using the effective non-surgical treatment of tear trough filler to replenish lost volume and reduce shadows. It provides a minimally invasive way to get a refreshed, youthful look, with minimal downtime.

The treatment is typically safe, but finding a qualified practitioner is essential for best results. If you are interested in tear trough filler, book a consultation with a qualified provider here at Botonics to see if it’s the right option for you.