What is tear trough filler?

We use small amounts of thicker dermal fillers to perform the tear trough filler treatment. Generally, dense filler is used deeper within the skin, placed on the bone, when used underneath the eyes.

How we conduct this treatment

We will use dermal fillers to perform the following steps. Generally, we perform this treatment in two sessions, spaced four weeks apart, but the details of your treatment plan will be discussed during your initial consultation.

Bone Support

First, the lower eye socket is improved to establish a more balanced alignment for the eye. This is accomplished by strategically applying structural filler along the lower orbit in columns.

Under-Eye Volume Replacement

The next step is adding volume to the deep fat pads under the eye muscles. We aim to place this filler deep within the skin to avoid a puffy under-eye result.

‘Tear Trough’ Filler

We address the bare bone area located at the innermost part of the eye, known as the tear trough hollowing, only after reaching this stage. We’ll also consider other anatomical factors during this treatment to tailor the steps to suit your needs.

Blending

Finally, to achieve a softer look around the eye, the boundary between the eyelid area and the cheek, also known as the lid-cheek junction, is blended. This process involves techniques that result in a smoother transition between these two areas.

Benefits of under-eye filler treatments

Treating the under-eye area with dermal fillers presents a minimally invasive option for treatment, offering temporary outcomes instead of permanent alterations through surgery. By choosing a non-surgical approach, you can benefit from less extensive post-treatment care and the flexibility to modify results in future sessions.

A customised treatment plan will be created, considering your personal preferences and distinctive facial characteristics. Essentially, this means that each patient can find benefits of the procedure based on their own unique needs and preferences.

Suitable candidates for tear trough filler

To be considered a suitable filler candidate, having good overall physical and mental health is essential.

During the consultation, we may inquire about any underlying health conditions and current medications you are taking.

Maintaining realistic expectations for the results is essential. Individual factors, including facial anatomy and response to the treatment, can influence the final results.

When it comes to the right age for treatment, candidates should also have fully developed facial features.

We will evaluate facial anatomy, discuss treatment expectations, and determine if the candidate is suitable for treatment during an in-person consultation.

The consultation will also allow the candidate to gather essential information and decide whether to proceed with the treatment.

The tear trough or under-eye filler procedure

The procedure begins by improving bone support by strategically applying structural filler along the lower orbit, creating a balanced alignment for the eye.

Next, volume replacement is performed by adding filler to the deep fat pads under the eye muscles. Following bone support and volume replacement, attention is directed towards addressing the tear trough area at the innermost part of the eye.

This area addresses tear trough hollowing while considering other anatomical factors for a personalised approach that meets your unique needs.

Lastly, the lid-cheek junction, which marks the boundary between the eyelid area and the cheek, is blended to achieve a softer appearance around the eye.

The typical approach involves dividing this procedure into two stages, with a two to four weeks gap between them. This interval is necessary because fillers naturally tend to attract water, resulting in some swelling.

Therefore, during the initial visit, the goal is generally to achieve 80% of the final results, followed by fine-tuning and refinement in the subsequent appointment. This sequential approach avoids undesired puffiness underneath the eyes.

Risks and side effects

When considering tear trough filler treatment, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks. Swelling, discomfort, and bleeding are common but temporary side effects.

Due to thin skin and numerous blood vessels, bruising is expected in the tear trough area, but there are techniques to reduce this risk.

If you have an upcoming special event within the next two weeks where bruising would be undesirable, it may be wise to postpone filler treatment in this area. Applying ice for 24 hours and using makeup after four hours can help minimise the appearance of bruising.

Although rare, there have been cases of vascular injury in Australia, which can lead to skin necrosis or visual loss if the filler is mistakenly injected into a blood vessel. In the event of any complications, immediate dissolution of the filler is necessary.

Another consideration is the possibility of poor aesthetic outcomes in tear trough filler treatment. This can occur if the filler is placed too superficially, resulting in a bluish appearance (known as the Tyndall effect) or excessive filler, leading to under-eye “puffiness.”

The procedure is usually performed in two visits to achieve gradual results and avoid these complications. Also, proper patient selection is vital, as tear trough filler may not suit individuals with poor skin laxity, prominent eye bags, or allergies.

Recovery and aftercare

After under-eye dermal filler treatment, you can expect a short recovery period with temporary bruising and swelling that usually diminishes within a few days. Discomfort can be relieved with mild pain medication, and using ice can help reduce swelling and bruising faster.

Following the treatment, it is important to avoid wearing makeup for at least four hours and refrain from vigorous exercise for 24 hours. Swimming should be avoided for one week, and alcohol should be avoided for 24 hours to minimise the risk of bruising.

You will need to avoid exposing the treated area to excessive heat or sun exposure for a few days after your appointment. Protecting the delicate under-eye area with sunscreen is also important. We recommend maintaining good hydration by drinking an adequate amount of water per day, as hydrated skin tends to recover more efficiently.

During the initial days after the treatment, being gentle with the treated area is important. Avoid massaging or putting pressure on the under-eye region to allow the filler to settle. Your injector may also recommend avoiding wearing glasses for a certain amount of time to avoid disrupting the filler in the area.

Following your provider’s instructions regarding any prescribed post-treatment skincare products or recommended aftercare routines is essential. They can provide specific guidance tailored to your individual needs.

Dermal filler results typically last between six to 18 months, varying based on factors such as the injection site, the patient’s metabolism, and the type of filler used.

Although the effects can be long-lasting, periodic maintenance treatments are necessary to maintain the results. We can discuss a long-term treatment plan during your consultation.

Costs of tear trough filler treatment at Ascension

At Ascension in Brisbane, we offer personalised treatments, tailored to your facial structure and personal preferences. Therefore, the pricing for our services will be based on your unique treatment plan.

We carefully develop a personalised treatment plan during your consultation to map out your treatment. Various factors within the treatment plan can influence the overall cost of your treatment, but your costs will mainly be determined by the amount of filler required. The amount of filler needed can vary depending on your facial features and the results you would like to achieve.

A comprehensive consultation lets us provide an accurate and personalised quote that reflects your individual needs.

For more details on pricing, please click here.