Under-Eye Fillers: A Comprehensive Guide
What are Under-Eye Fillers?
Under-eye fillers are cosmetic injections designed to reduce dark circles, hollows, and fine lines by adding volume to the tear troughs. The procedure is minimally invasive and typically uses a hyaluronic acid-based gel to create a smoother, more refreshed appearance.
How Under-Eye Fillers Work
- Restoring Lost Volume: The filler, a gel-like substance, is injected into the tear trough area to restore lost volume, reduce shadowing, and create a smoother transition between the eyelid and the cheek.
- Smoothing Fine Lines: Under-eye fillers can also help smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, giving the under-eye area a more youthful appearance.
The Procedure
- Consultation: An initial assessment by an experienced medical professional determines if you are a suitable candidate and establishes realistic expectations for the outcome.
- Preparation: The injection site is cleaned, and a numbing cream is applied to minimize discomfort.
- Injection: Using a fine needle or a blunt-tipped cannula, the filler is carefully injected deep into the under-eye area.
- Aftercare: You can resume most normal activities immediately, but swelling, bruising, and redness are common side effects for the first 48 to 72 hours.
Common Filler Types
- Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: Most under-eye fillers are made with hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the body that helps retain moisture and add volume.
- Popular Brands: Restylane, Restylane Silk, Juvéderm, and Belotero are popular brands of hyaluronic acid fillers.
Longevity and Cost
- Duration: The results from hyaluronic acid fillers are temporary, typically lasting between 6 and 18 months.
- Cost: The price varies based on the type and amount of filler used, the practitioner’s experience, and geographic location.
Risks and Considerations
- Lumps or Unevenness: Can occur if the filler is not applied smoothly or is injected too superficially.
- Tyndall Effect: A bluish discoloration that happens when filler is placed too close to the skin’s surface.
- Serious Complications: In very rare cases, injecting filler into a blood vessel can cause vascular occlusion, which could lead to blindness.
Alternatives to Fillers
- Topical Treatments: Creams containing retinol or vitamin C can help with skin tone and texture.
- Makeup: Concealers and color correctors can temporarily hide dark circles.
- Laser Therapy: Can address hyperpigmentation or stimulate collagen production.
- Blepharoplasty: A surgical procedure to remove and/or reposition fat pads under the eyes for long-term results.
How it Works
Consultation and preparation.
A qualified and experienced provider will first examine your under-eye area to assess your specific concerns and determine if you are a good candidate. They will then clean the treatment area and may apply a topical numbing cream to ensure your comfort.
Injection of the filler.
Using a very fine needle or a blunt-tipped cannula, the practitioner injects a hyaluronic acid-based filler into the tear trough area. The specific placement is crucial and is injected with care to restore lost volume.
- instructions will be provided
Sculpting and shaping.
After the filler has been injected, the provider will often gently massage the area. This ensures the product is evenly distributed and settles smoothly, creating a natural-looking contour and correcting hollows.
- of weeks to reveal the full results, and follow-up care
Immediate results and follow-up.
have a question?
Quick answers to questions you may have
Are under-eye fillers safe?
Under-eye fillers are generally safe when administered by an experienced, board-certified medical professional.
How long do under-eye fillers last?
The results from hyaluronic acid fillers typically last between 6 and 18 months.
Can under-eye fillers be used to treat dark circles?