Tear Trough Filler
Carefully selected hyaluronic acid dermal filler may soften suitable under-eye hollows following detailed clinical assessment.
Clinical Introduction
The tear trough is the hollow that can develop between the lower eyelid and upper cheek. Its appearance may be influenced by facial anatomy, volume distribution, skin quality, pigmentation, visible blood vessels and fluid retention. Tear trough filler is not suitable for every under-eye concern. At EQUA Clinic, treatment is considered only after careful assessment of the under-eye area, cheeks, skin quality and tendency towards puffiness. Where appropriate, a small amount of carefully selected hyaluronic acid dermal filler may soften the hollow and improve the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek. The aim is subtle correction rather than complete removal of the hollow. Filler will not treat every cause of dark circles and may be unsuitable where there are prominent eye bags, significant skin laxity or fluid retention. Suitability, expected results, limitations and risks are discussed during consultation.
Suitability Indicators
- Adults with a clearly defined under-eye hollow following clinical assessment
- Patients with suitable skin quality and minimal tendency towards under-eye swelling
- Those seeking subtle correction rather than complete removal of the hollow
- Patients suitable for hyaluronic acid dermal filler in this higher-risk area
Target Concerns
- Selected under-eye hollows
- Shadowing associated with volume distribution
- The transition between the lower eyelid and upper cheek
- Facial balance through the under-eye and mid-face
Consultation Process
Your consultation includes a medical history and assessment of the tear trough, cheeks, skin quality, pigmentation, eye bags and tendency towards fluid retention. We discuss whether filler, an alternative treatment, referral, or no treatment is most appropriate.
The Treatment Journey Steps
- Detailed clinical assessment of the under-eye and mid-face
- Cleansing and antiseptic preparation of the treatment area
- Conservative placement of selected hyaluronic acid dermal filler where appropriate
- Assessment of symmetry, tissue response and vascular safety
- Clear aftercare advice and access to clinical support
Safety & Downtime
Safety Note: The tear trough is a complex, higher-risk area containing important blood vessels and delicate structures. Technique is selected according to individual anatomy, and neither a needle nor cannula removes vascular risk. Potential complications, including persistent swelling, contour irregularity and the rare risk of vascular occlusion, are discussed before treatment.
Expected Downtime: Swelling, tenderness or bruising may occur and can be more noticeable in the under-eye area. Recovery varies, and swelling can occasionally persist for longer than expected.
Clinical Benefits & Limitations
Primary Benefits
- May soften a suitable under-eye hollow and associated shadowing
- Can improve the transition between the lower eyelid and upper cheek
- Uses conservative amounts of selected hyaluronic acid dermal filler
- Treatment is planned in relation to the under-eye area and mid-face
Anatomical Limitations
- Will not correct pigmentation, visible blood vessels or every cause of dark circles
- May be unsuitable where there are prominent eye bags, fluid retention or significant skin laxity
- Persistent swelling or contour irregularity can occur
- Results vary and cannot be guaranteed
Precautions & Contraindications
- Active infection, inflammation or open skin near the treatment area
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Recent eye surgery or an under-eye concern requiring medical assessment
- Any medical or anatomical factor identified during consultation that makes treatment unsuitable
Home Aftercare Instructions
- Keep the treated area clean and avoid applying make-up or skincare for 24 hours
- Do not rub, massage or apply firm pressure unless specifically advised
- Avoid alcohol, strenuous exercise and excessive heat for 24 to 48 hours
- Contact the clinic promptly if you experience unusual pain, colour change, visual symptoms or any other concern
When will I see the results?
Some reduction in hollowing may be visible immediately, although swelling can affect the early appearance. Allow approximately two to four weeks for the area to settle before assessing the result. Outcomes vary between individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will tear trough filler treat my dark circles?
Only when shadowing from a suitable hollow contributes to their appearance. It will not correct pigmentation, visible blood vessels or every cause of under-eye darkness.
Is everyone with under-eye hollows suitable?
No. Prominent eye bags, fluid retention, significant skin laxity and other anatomical factors may make filler unsuitable or increase the risk of an unsatisfactory result.
Clinical Alternatives
Polynucleotides (where skin quality rather than volume loss is the principal concern)
Explore clinical alternatives under professional direction.
Learn More →Cheek Filler (where selected mid-face support may be more appropriate)
Explore clinical alternatives under professional direction.
Learn More →