Tear Trough Treatments in Boston

Filler treatments for tear troughs can reduce the appearance of puffy and tired eyes. In our 30s and 40s the tear trough, which is the groove near the corner of the eye, can become depressed and hollow. This can result in a few problems, including:

Dark under-eye circles
Eyes that look puffy
A perpetually tired-looking expression

Causes of Tear Trough Deformities

Most tear trough deformities are due to age-related changes that affect the facial skin, muscles, bone and fat. With age, the skin between the lower eyelid and upper cheek thins and loses elasticity. The muscles of the lower eyelid stretch and loosen. Fatty tissue in the lower eyelid starts to sag out of its normal position, making the eyes look puffy. In addition, all of us tend to lose bone volume along the lower rim of the eye socket. The convergence of these factors leads to the formation of hollow, tired-looking eyes, which we recognize as tear trough deformities.

Not all tear trough deformities are due to advancing age. Some people are genetically predisposed to tear trough deformities and notice the formation of bags or bulging in their 20s or earlier.

How Do Tear Trough Fillers Help?

Tear trough fillers are injected along the rim of the bone, in the area of the hollow, to add subtle volume and smooth out the visible transition in the skin. Tear trough fillers are made of a naturally occurring substance called hyaluronic acid that helps skin look young and hydrated.

To be successful, the injector must have a thorough understanding of the natural anatomy of the eyelid and tear trough area. A steady hand and meticulous technique are critical in order to place the injections precisely and avoid over-volumizing the area. Overcorrection may actually accentuate the natural demarcation and draw more attention to the area between the lower eyelid and cheek.

The procedure to correct the tear trough area with fillers is quick and minimally invasive. Most of our patients find the treatment quite tolerable and love their results. They look more awake and rested after treatment.

Overview of Treatment

The treatment typically takes about 15 minutes and is done in the exam room.
The lower eyelid area is cleaned and made numb with ice.
Ultrafine threads of the filler are carefully placed along the rim, with a special needle called a cannula, to fill the groove without making it look overfilled.
Cannulas have a blunt (not sharp) tip, making the treatment more comfortable and less likely to result in bruising.

Recovery After the Treatment

Often there is no bruising but approximately 10% of the time there can be a small bruise about the size of an eraser tip.
If there is bruising, one can usually cover the area with makeup.
Arnica and ice are provided to minimize bruising if it occurs.
Patients can resume normal activity immediately though we advise not rubbing the area for 24 hours.
Most patients are advised not to have the treatment done within 24 hours of an important event.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tear Trough Fillers

How long do tear trough fillers last?

Results vary by patient and by the specific filler. Most patients enjoy their results for around 12 months or longer. Repeat treatments are required to maintain the results long-term.

Who should not get tear trough fillers?

Tear trough fillers are generally not recommended for individuals who are under the age of 21 or those who currently take medication that affects bleeding or who have a medical condition that increases the risks of filler treatment. Women who are pregnant or nursing should postpone treatment.

Individuals who have a significant amount of looseness and puffiness in the lower eyelids may be better suited to surgical correction with blepharoplasty.

How much do tear trough fillers cost?

The total cost of treatment depends on the type and amount of filler used. Shallow tear trough deformities typically require less filler than deeper deformities. In some cases, one syringe of filler may adequately treat both sides of the face; other cases may require one syringe per side.

For specific details about tear trough filler pricing, please reach out to our team.