The term “tear trough” is used to describe the groove between the lower eyelid and the cheek. Due to ageing process this groove can become more pronounced and dark circles become more apparent under the eyes. This occurs due to thinning of overlying skin and soft tissue above the bony orbital rim.
Tear troughs develop mainly as a result of age related changes in the orbit around the eyes as well as specific life-style factors such as smoking and excessive sun exposure.
Clients who have dark eye circles and minimal ‘bags’ below the eye can benefit from this procedure. Those with a groove between the lower eyelid and the cheek can also expect a considerable improvement in the appearance of their under-eye area.
Tear trough correction is not suitable clients with larger ‘bags’ under the eyes. If you fall in this category, our doctor will advise you on the alternative treatment options.
Clapham Skin Clinic offers a range of dermal fillers suitable for tear trough correction. Our doctor will help you in choosing the best dermal filler that suits you. For some clients optimal results can be achieved by treating “Crows feet” with Botox, as well as replacing lost cheek volume with dermal fillers. For clients with more advanced signs of ageing under the eye area tear trough correction using dermal filler may not be suitable. In such cases we are happy to advise regarding alternative treatment.
Prior to the treatment, you will have a consultation to assess the suitability for the procedure. Our doctor will also help you choose the best dermal filler for tear trough correction. Selection of the dermal filler varies depending on the thickness of your skin and the depth of the tear troughs. We use the following dermal fillers for tear trough correction: Restylane LYFT®, Teosyal Redensity 2® and Juvederm Volbella®.
The procedure is carried out using a micro cannula to minimise side effects (such as bruising and swelling) so subsequent down time is kept to a minimum and most clients return to work the same or next day. Following the procedure, it is normal for the treatment area to appear slightly swollen and mild bruising may also be present. However, make-up can adequately conceal this discoloration. Discomfort following the procedure is unusual but if this does occur it can be managed with oral paracetamol.
Possible complications of tear trough correction include a small possibility of bruising and swelling, that settles within a few days. There are rare case reports of blindness. Use of microcannula for tear trough treatment significantly reduces the complication rate.
Dr Baba, a highly trained and experienced aesthetic doctor who is also a senior trainer for this procedure at London Aesthetic Academy (www.londonaestheticacademy.co.uk) will perform your procedure.