Are you a good candidate for Tear Trough Filler?
Tear trough filler is a popular treatment aimed at improving the appearance of dark circles, hollowness, and under-eye shadows. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, very few people are actually suitable candidates for this treatment. In this blog, we’ll explore how tear trough filler works, who can benefit from it, and the best alternatives for those who aren’t suitable.
How Does Tear Trough Filler Work?
Tear trough filler involves injecting hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler into the ‘tear trough deformity’ to restore lost volume, reduce the appearance of hollows, and create a smoother transition between the lower eyelid and cheek. This can help to make the under-eye area look fresher and less tired.
When performed on the right candidate, tear trough filler can be very effective. However, the under-eye area is extremely delicate, making it one of the most challenging areas to treat with filler.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Tear Trough Filler?
Not everyone is a good candidate for tear trough filler. The best candidates typically have:
A noticeable hollow under the eyes
Firm, thick skin with minimal laxity
No significant bulging fat pads or under-eye bags
No history of chronic seasonal allergies or sinus issues that cause puffiness
Realistic expectations—100% correction is not possible
Who Is NOT Suitable for Tear Trough Filler?
If you fall into any of the categories below, tear trough filler may not be the right option for you:
Bulging Fat Pads – If you have puffiness under the eyes, adding filler can make the area look even more swollen rather than improving it.
Significant Skin Laxity – Loose or crepey skin won’t be improved by filler and may actually accentuate the issue.
Deep Ligament Anchoring – Some people have tight ligaments around the lower eyelid, which prevents filler from integrating smoothly.
Hollowing Combined with Discoloration – Filler won’t correct pigmentation or darkness caused by thin skin, vascular issues, or hyperpigmentation.
Unrealistic Expectations – No treatment can provide complete correction, and results vary from person to person.
Prone to Puffiness or Fluid Retention – If you experience frequent under-eye swelling, filler can make this issue worse.
History of Previous Filler Complications – If you've previously had filler migration, puffiness, or dissatisfaction with tear trough filler, you may not be a good candidate for retreatment.
Long term considerations
Before having Tear Trough Filler, it’s vital that you fully understand all the risks and long term implications:
Results will not be perfect, and while touch-ups may be needed, the effects can also last for years.
Filler may need to be dissolved or adjusted in the future to achieve a reasonable (but not perfect) result.
Over time, filler can potentially migrate or “rise to the surface,” requiring dissolving and readjustment.
Most patients will need mid-face filler in combination with under-eye filler for the best results.
What Are the Alternatives?
If you’re not suitable for tear trough filler, don’t worry—there are several other treatments that can help improve the appearance of your under-eye area:
✔ Polynucleotides – Stimulate collagen production, improve skin quality, and strengthen the under-eye area over time.
✔ Microneedling – Boosts collagen and elastin, helping to thicken and strengthen the delicate under-eye skin.
✔ Medical-Grade Eye Creams – Look for actives like retinol, peptides, vitamin C, and caffeine to improve circulation, brighten, and firm the skin.
✔ Chemical Peels & Laser Treatments – Target pigmentation and improve overall skin texture and tone.
✔ Surgical Options – If you have significant eye bags or excess skin, lower blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is the most effective and long-term solution.
Tear trough filler can be a fantastic treatment—but only for the right candidate. If you’re unsure whether it’s suitable for you, a consultation is essential to assess your under-eye anatomy and explore the best options for your unique concerns.
Book a consultation at our clinic in Portadown, Northern Ireland, so we can create a tailored treatment plan to give you brighter, fresher-looking eyes!
