Do You Have a Tear Trough Deformity?
For many people with dark circles beneath the eyes, it’s just a matter of getting more sleep. But for some, especially those with a tear trough deformity, the dark circles are actually a reflection of a narrow channel or furrow that developed beneath the lower eyelid. It sounds a lot more serious than it is, so don’t be alarmed if you see this under your own eyes. You can tell if you have a tear trough deformity, as when shedding tears, they don’t run straight down your face but to the sides, due to the little channel under the lower lid.
Genetics, Aging, or Both?
Some people develop a tear trough deformity with age, while others have one as a result of genetics. When the light hits the deformity, the furrow makes a shadow, giving the impression of dark circles beneath the eyes. This can easily be treated by injecting some dermal filler in the area to resolve the problem. If, however, you have puffiness under the eyes that doesn’t go away with adequate sleep, this may need treatment through cosmetic surgery, called a lower blepharoplasty.
What Is the Best Filler for Tear Troughs/Dark Circles?
In my Naples, FL plastic surgery practice, I’ve found Restylane to be an excellent tear trough filler. It comes in a very small (0.4 cc) small syringe, treatment is reasonably comfortable for my patients, and results are very good. Restylane, a hyaluronic acid filler, is much like the hyaluronic acid in your own body; it attracts water to the surrounding collagen fibers, plumping them up. It’s this plumping that eliminates the hollow.
Other fillers may be used for dark circles or tear troughs, but I find Restylane to be the best consistency with the best outcome. Other fillers are more hydrophilic—meaning they attract more water molecules—which isn’t a good thing for the under eye area. Other reasons I prefer Restylane for tear trough treatment:
- Viscosity: Restylane has a high viscosity, which means it can be molded and shaped to create a natural-looking result in the tear trough area. The high viscosity also allows for better longevity of the filler, which means the results can last longer.
- Safety: Restylane has a good safety profile, and its effects can be easily reversed with the use of hyaluronidase if needed. This is important because tear trough injections require skill and experience, and it is essential to have a safe and effective option in case of any complications.
- Clinical studies: Restylane has been clinically studied for use in the tear trough area and has shown to be effective in reducing the appearance of dark circles, hollowing, and wrinkles.
How long Does Tear Trough Filler Last?
Restylane under the eyes lasts 6 months to a year before you need re-treatment. Touch-up treatments at around 6 to 9 months require less filler than the initial treatment, and can keep your results looking fresh indefinitely.
Call us at (239) 262-5662 if this is an issue for you and let’s see how quickly we can help you get rid of it! You can also request a consultation online.
To your health & beauty,
Kent Hasen, MD
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