The delicate area under the eyes, known as the tear trough, can reveal early signs of aging, fatigue, and stress. Hollowing or dark shadows in this region often make people look tired or older than they feel. Tear trough augmentation with dermal fillers is a popular non-surgical solution to restore volume, reduce dark circles, and brighten the under-eye area.
If you’re considering tear trough filler treatment, here’s a comprehensive before-and-after guide to help you understand what to expect and how this procedure can transform your appearance.
What Is Tear Trough Augmentation?
Tear trough augmentation involves injecting a soft, hyaluronic acid-based filler into the hollow groove between your lower eyelid and upper cheek. The filler replaces lost volume, smooths the contour, and reduces the appearance of shadows and dark circles.
Before Treatment
Consultation and Assessment
Your provider will assess the under-eye area to determine if you are a good candidate.
They will discuss your medical history, concerns, and desired outcome.
Photos may be taken for comparison after treatment.
In some cases, other treatments like skin resurfacing may be recommended alongside filler for optimal results.
Preparation
Avoid blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil) for about a week before treatment to reduce bruising.
Minimize alcohol intake 24–48 hours prior.
Ensure you have realistic expectations and understand the potential risks.
The Procedure
Treatment typically takes 15–30 minutes in a medical office.
The area is cleaned and disinfected.
A topical numbing cream or local anesthetic may be applied for comfort.
The filler is injected carefully into the tear trough using a fine needle or cannula.
Your provider may gently massage the area to ensure even distribution.
After Treatment
Immediate Results
You will notice immediate improvement in under-eye volume and contour.
Mild swelling, redness, or bruising may occur but usually resolves within a few days.
Avoid rubbing or massaging the area for 24–48 hours.
Recovery
Most patients return to normal activities right away.
Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and excessive sun exposure for 24–48 hours.
Use cold compresses if needed to reduce swelling or bruising.
Before and After Results
Before:
Hollow, sunken under-eyes
Prominent dark circles or shadows
Tired, aged appearance
After:
Smoother under-eye contour
Reduced shadows and dark circles
Refreshed, youthful, and well-rested look
Results are natural-looking and subtle, enhancing your overall facial harmony without drastic changes.
How Long Do Results Last?
Results typically last between 9 to 18 months, depending on the filler used and individual factors.
Touch-up treatments can maintain or enhance the results.
Risks and Considerations
Common Side Effects
Bruising and Swelling:
Mild bruising and swelling are common immediately after treatment and typically resolve within a few days to a week.
Redness and Tenderness:
Some redness, tenderness, or minor discomfort at injection sites can occur but usually subsides quickly.
Temporary Lumps or Bumps:
Occasionally, small lumps or unevenness may develop under the skin. These often improve with gentle massage or dissolve naturally over time.
Potential Risks
Tyndall Effect:
This is a bluish discoloration that can appear if the filler is injected too superficially. It occurs when light reflects off the filler through thin under-eye skin. Skilled injectors minimize this risk with proper technique.
Infection:
Though rare, infection can occur if the injection site is not properly sterilized. Choosing a qualified provider who follows strict hygiene protocols reduces this risk.
Allergic Reactions:
Most modern Temple Fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in the body, making allergic reactions uncommon but still possible.
Vascular Complications:
The tear trough area has delicate blood vessels. Incorrect injection can potentially cause vascular occlusion — blockage of a blood vessel — which is a serious but rare complication requiring immediate medical attention.
Considerations Before Treatment
Experienced Injector is Essential:
Tear trough augmentation, due to the thin skin and complex anatomy of the under-eye area, should only be performed by a licensed, experienced medical professional with specialized training in tear trough fillers.
Realistic Expectations:
While fillers can dramatically improve the under-eye area, results are subtle and natural-looking, not drastic transformations. It’s important to discuss your goals openly with your provider.
Not Suitable for Everyone:
Patients with active skin infections, certain allergies, bleeding disorders, or unrealistic expectations may not be ideal candidates.
Temporary Results:
Fillers are not permanent; maintenance treatments are needed to sustain results.
Possible Need for Correction:
If results are uneven or unsatisfactory, hyaluronidase — an enzyme that dissolves hyaluronic acid fillers — can often be used to adjust or reverse the treatment.
Final Thoughts
Tear trough augmentation is an effective, minimally invasive way to rejuvenate the under-eye area and combat signs of aging and fatigue. With careful assessment, skillful technique, and proper aftercare, you can expect a brighter, smoother, and more youthful appearance that boosts confidence and enhances your natural beauty.
