Tear Trough Fillers Side Effects: Understanding & Minimising Risks

Getting fillers under your eyes helps minimise the hollowness and dark shadows. While they give you a fresher look, tear trough fillers’ side effects are essential to consider.

However, any treatment on any part of the body has possible side effects to consider before having them done. To help you make an informed choice about this cosmetic procedure, this blog simplifies some of the side effects of tear trough fillers.

Here are Tear Trough Fillers Side Effects

1. Tyndall effect
2. Swelling
3. Bruising
4. Pain or discomfort
5. Persistent lumpiness
6. Infection
7. Asymmetry 
8. Allergy
9. Granuloma
10. Blood flow restriction
11. Nerve irritation

Let’s discover all these tear-trough fillers’ side effects in detail. 

1. Tyndall Effect

The Tyndall effect is the bluish or discoloured appearance of the under-eye area. It usually occurs when the filler is injected more superficially than to the appropriate skin depth. Tyndall effects are a side effect of tear trough fillers when an inexperienced doctor injects them. In this case, dissolving the filler is usually the best action.

2. Swelling

The most common after-effect of getting tear trough fillers is swelling, caused by micro-injury to the skin and structures below. Usually, in most people, the swelling dissolves on its own in a few days to a week or two. However, swelling that lasts can be caused by too much filler, the wrong type of filler, or poor lymphatic fluid drainage. Occasionally, swelling continues for months and may be treated with some solvent to dissolve the filler.

3. Bruising

Bruising occurs because small blood vessels within the skin layer get punctured from the point of a needle or cannula inserted at the injection. The more bruises you bruise, the more it depends on the skin you are using, the technique, and any blood-thinning drugs or supplements. Bruises can take as little as one week to resolve. You may consider an ice compress and rest during physical activities.

4. Pain or Discomfort

Some level of pain or discomfort is normal during and after the injection. The treated area may feel tender for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief can help, but contact your doctor if the pain is severe or doesn’t improve.

5. Persistent Lumpiness

Another side effect of tear trough fillers is lump formation. This may happen because the filler clumps together and moves from its intended spot, or it was used improperly. Persistent lumps might need massaging or further treatment to smooth them out. 

6. Infection 

Though rare, infection can occur when bacteria enter the injection site. The signs of infection include redness, swelling, pain, and pus. If any of these signs appear, one must seek immediate attention from a physician. A sterile environment prevents infection risks.

7. Asymmetry

Asymmetrical results are not common but are possible tear trough filler side effects. This can occur if the filler does not disperse evenly under the skin or body absorbs it unevenly. Asymmetry can be corrected with further treatment or by your doctor adjusting the treatment.

8. Allergy 

Although rare, allergic reactions to fillers can occur. Symptoms might include itching, redness, swelling, or a rash. Rarely, more severe reactions, such as trouble breathing, can occur. Call a physician if any of these occur. If you know you have allergies to certain components, talk to your physician before your procedure.

9. Granuloma 

Granulomas are small, firm lumps that occur when the body considers the filler a foreign body. These inflammatory reactions are extremely rare with modern fillers but can occur, especially with non-biodegradable products. Granulomas often occur months or even years after the procedure and can require treatments.

10. Blood Flow Restriction

Blood flow restriction—vascular occlusion—in the under-eye area is a severe but rare side effect of tear trough fillers. It happens when a filler blocks a blood vessel. Tissue damage and a cutoff of blood flow may result. Rarely, it can cause blindness due to a disrupted eye blood supply. If you feel severe pain or have a change in skin colour, medical attention is required due to a problem with vision.

11. Nerve Irritation

Nerve irritation is a rare side effect of tear trough fillers, but it can occur if the needle or cannula used during the procedure contacts a nerve. This may cause numbness, tingling, or mild pain around the treated area. While these symptoms are usually temporary and resolve independently, persistent nerve irritation can lead to discomfort or changes in sensation. 

Bonus Tip: Learn how tear trough filler go wrong and how to avoid side effects with proper care and treatment.

Avoiding The Side Effects of Tear Trough Fillers

While the side effects of tear trough fillers may sound alarming, most of them are temporary and manageable. To reduce risks, it’s important to:

• Learn if they are for you: Before getting fillers under your eyes, discuss with your doctor whether they are the right option for you and whether you are a good candidate.
• Choose an experienced practitioner: A seasoned injector knows how to minimise complications and produce natural-looking results.
• Be honest about your medical history: Let your doctor know if you have any allergies or medical conditions or are taking medications.
• Follow aftercare instructions: Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and touching the treated area unnecessarily.

Bottomline

Tear trough fillers often help the appearance of tired and hollow eyes look better, but risks should be discussed before treatment. Most minor adverse reactions resolve on their own, but severe risk occurs though seldom and prompt attention is necessary.

With a qualified practitioner for tear trough filler in Leeds and their advice, you can have the benefits of tear trough fillers while minimising risks. Safety always comes first, and decisions regarding cosmetic treatments should be made with proper information.

FAQs

1. What can go wrong with tear trough fillers?

Tear trough fillers may cause swelling, bruising, Tyndall effect, vascular occlusion, allergic reactions, lumpiness, asymmetry, or nerve irritation. 

2. Is under-eye filler high risk?

Hyaluronic acid-based facial fillers are generally considered safe when performed by an expert doctor.

3. Can under-eye fillers cause eye problems?

Improper injection placement may lead to blockage of blood vessels under the eye. Getting your fillers from an expert practitioner minimises this risk.

4. Who is a bad candidate for tear trough fillers?

The following conditions make one an unsuitable candidate for tear trough fillers:

• Puffy under eyes
• Dark circles due to bad lifestyle habits.
• Extremely deep tear troughs
• Thin under eye skin
• Skin infection
• Medical conditions leading to blood thinning.