TEAR TROUGHS
The so-called tear trough's form when volume is lost from the tissues around the eye and cheek areas. Some people inherit this feature from their parents but as we get older it becomes more obvious. Having hollow areas under the eyes with flattened cheeks is one of the most significant changes that we perceive as a sign of 'aging'. As the youthful plumpness of our cheeks slowly fades, a visible hollow line begins to develop from the inner corner of the eye that often extends laterally across the lower cheek.
Further fat loss here leads to obvious hollows under the eyes. The tissue directly under the eye is more resilient and is seen as the so called 'eye bags' that hang unsupported. Dark circles, the result of visible tiny blood vessels under ageing and thinning skin further add to the tired look.
How can we treat the tear troughs?
Dermal fillers can be used under the eyes to dramatically improve these features. By treating areas of lost volume, the hollows and shadows look less obvious. This is one of the most rewarding treatments, with patients often noting that they look considerably younger and less tired afterwards.
In almost all cases, it's essential to treat both the lateral and anterior cheek, as well as the tear troughs as a combined procedure. A tear trough needs support from the cheek bone and the 'apple' of the cheek before we can add filler to the under eye itself.
In people with loose or very thin under eye skin, eyes that get puffy in the mornings or people with classic 'eye bags', fillers can make the swelling worse. This will be assessed during your consultation and not every face is suitable for under eye fillers.