If you have dark circles under your eyes, you must have undoubtedly tried every brightening cream available in the market. But the truth is that under eye filler is one of the few treatments that can actually change your appearance for real.
If you have discussed puffy eyes or dark circles, there is a good chance that the words under eye filler have popped into your mind already. Interestingly under-eye filler is an extremely popular facial rejuvenation injectable designed to deliver your ultimate under-eye goals. But, the question that everyone asks is, how effective is it?
But before you pursue a procedure like this, it becomes all the more important to know what it actually is and what you can really expect from the treatment.
You also need to understand what is causing your dark circles. So get all the info you need by talking to your board certified dermatologist before getting yours under eye fillers.
What Is Under-Eye Filler?
Under-eye filler, also known as dermal soft tissue filler, is a hyaluronic acid injection used to improve the appearance of discolored or sunken under-eye areas. The dermal filler is not technically FDA approved for use under the eyes.
But dermatologists use it extensively – as it has the ability to reverse dark circles and bags completely. Dermatologists have also extended its use, and today fillers are also designed for lips (lip fillers), cheeks and the hands.
You might have noticed many people develop dark circles under their eyes. These appear as shadows that are created either by bulging fat directly underneath their lower lid. Many others develop a depression of soft tissue just over the bone underneath their eye. Your dermatologist can reduce the shadow by placing soft tissue filler within your shadowed area, in both cases.
Because of the small surface of the under-eye region, this rejuvenating procedure does not require a few injections. Just one to two syringes of filler per session can easily cater to both eyes. However, each of these syringes might be costly and can last you up to 18 months. Some syringes might cost you less as they vary from city to city.
As hefty as the price tag may seem, many people believe that under-eye fillers to be well worth the money. Unlike some facial treatments that might take time to settle into place, the benefits of under-eye filler are noticeable immediately after it is injected. Though you might notice some swelling or bruising, they disappear after a few days.
Benefits of Under Eye Filler
- Immediate results
- Brighter under-eye area
- Plumper under-eye area
- Overall, more youthful, less tired-looking under-eye area
There is a solid reason why so many people consider under eye fillers to be the one-stop solution for looking bushy-tailed and bright-eyed. The procedure gives you a fresher and more awake look within hours of the treatment. As a result, you have to use much less concealer and makeup to cover up your undereye circles. Hence treatment has become more popular.
These results are even more noticeable because hyaluronic acid fillers – such as Belotero, Juvederm, and Restylane actually do wonder for the under eye area. The hyaluronic acid injections plump your fine lines and wrinkles, smoothing out the overall complexion and adding volume to your face. In addition, you can see long-term benefits from injectables because dermal fillers build collagen and elastin as well.
What Can Under Eye Filler Treat?
The main reason to get under eye fillers is to fill the hollowness under your eye, commonly called a ‘tear trough’. If you have this type of eye hollows or loss of volume around your eye, you might have dark circles or shadows in the area.
It is important to distinguish dark circles caused by loss of volume or your basic anatomy of having dark circles. But both cases are hereditary.
If you have volume loss under your eyes, it is what filler works best for, but it can also be used to treat puffy bags. But if you have a natural pigmentation, it is what filler will not work for. If the darker pigment in your skin actually causes the dark circles, fillers will not help.
So the next question is how to identify? Hold a mirror and look up so that bright overhead lighting hits your face directly. If the shadow under your eyes disappears, your dark circle is caused by a hollow. If the color is still visible, it is pigment.
Under eye fillers will not have much effect on larger bags under your eyes. Your dermatologist will usually recommend blepharoplasty, a surgical procedure, instead.
So if you are truly interested in managing your dark circles under your eyes, the first step is to talk to your dermatologist to diagnose the actual cause of the issue. If you have a combination of factors causing dark circles, then your doctor may recommend a combination of treatments, including fillers.
Under Eye Filler vs. Botox
Folks who are not very familiar with the world of facial rejuvenation often get under eye filler and Botox treatments mixed up. But, if you chat with your dermatologist, you will learn that the two are very different things.
Fillers help address volume loss; Botox addresses fine lines, crepiness, and wrinkles. Botox addresses different aspects of this anatomical region and often is used together. Some believe that fractionated CO2 and radiofrequency with Microneedling can also help improve your skin texture in the area under your eyes. Specifically, if there is hollowing in your tear trough, fillers work best.
To reap the benefits of fillers or Botox you must understand what effect each has on your eyes. Only then should you opt for the treatment.
What to Expect During an Under Eye Filler Treatment
The under eye filler procedure is super easy. To start with – you can expect a topical anesthetic. Once it has had its effect and the area is numbed using numbing cream the injection will take place. In total, the entire procedure takes anywhere from 15 – 30 minutes depending on the exact under eye needs of the patient.
When it comes to the injection, two different approaches are followed. Some doctors prefer to use the tiny needles that come with the fillers to inject the medicine. While an increasing number of plastic surgeons and dermatologists opt to use a cannula. The cannula acts like a dull straw, allowing the needle to pass through. This preferably requires only one poke.
Some argue this second procedure allows for more precise placement of the injection with less bruising and swelling. But what everyone recommends is to go to an experienced medical professional who understands the intricate anatomy surrounding your eye.
There is nothing to worry about during the procedure. It is only an unfamiliar sensation of pressure by the orbital bone, which might feel odd but not super uncomfortable. After the procedure, you will start to notice results right away. It will get better over the next two weeks.
Lastly, you should only expect some bruising and swelling. Sometimes it can be quite noticeable because there are a lot of vessels around your eye and the skin is thin. Sometimes there is minimal bruising.
What Kind of Side Effects Are Associated With Under Eye Fillers?
First, know that the area under your eyes is very delicate and full of blood vessels. That thin skin around the area is prone to bruising, one of the most common side effects of this procedure.
To reduce the bruising your doctor might recommend that you avoid certain medications and supplements before your procedure. The other most common side effect is swelling. However, both of those issues should resolve within a week.
As common with most facial treatments, bruising and swelling are the biggest things to be concerned about. Even if you experience either, it should typically last one to two days.
Bruising and swelling are common, as previously stated. Swelling lasts about one to two days. Especially after the procedure, you should avoid exercises where your head is below your waist for 24 hours.
You might not experience extreme bruising as it is not the norm, but noticeable bruising is possible. At times it can be tougher to conceal and some might require up to 10 days to feel comfortable enough as before. You should apply cold compresses to the area several times a day to help with any swelling.
You should make sure that you only have under-eye filler performed by a licensed medical professional who has extensive experience in the use of injectables. The procedure must be done under the supervision of a medical officer after seeking proper medical advice.
Another thing to take note is that the filler used should be only hyaluronic acid. The synthetic fillers are made up of polymethylmethacrylate, calcium hydroxylapatite, or poly-L-lactic acid which should not be used under the eyes.
The Final Takeaway
Today under-eye filler is a popular treatment for folks looking to plump and brighten their under-eye area. When performed by your dermatologist, the treatment is very safe.
So, if you have been considering under-eye filler, know that it’s a beneficial facial rejuvenation treatment when performed with care, and can immediately change the appearance of your under-eye area.
