Tear trough fillers have become incredibly popular as a non-surgical way to address dark circles, fatigued looks, and under-eye hollows. This procedure can revitalise the face and give it a more youthful appearance when done properly.
However, there are some risks and consequences associated with tear trough fillers, just like with other aesthetic procedures. Without the right care, problems like bruising, inconsistent outcomes, or more serious issues like vascular occlusion can arise.
This blog explores why fillers under eyes gone wrong and how you’ll be able to fix them for you.
Common Complications with Tear Trough Fillers
While tear trough fillers can provide excellent rejuvenating results, complications can arise due to improper technique, excessive filler use, or incorrect placement. Below are some common issues and their solutions.
1. Bruising and Swelling
Bruising and swelling are among the most common side effects after tear trough filler treatments. These effects are typically temporary and subside within a few days. However, persistent swelling or bruising that lasts beyond a couple of weeks might indicate an underlying issue, such as improper injection technique or an allergic reaction.
Applying ice packs immediately after the procedure and following aftercare instructions can minimise swelling and bruising.
2. Overfilled Tear Trough Area or Lumps
A frequent issue caused by excessive filler use is puffiness or the formation of lumps in the tear trough area. These lumps can become more noticeable when smiling or seeing the area from above. The subtle nature of the tear trough requires precise filler application to improve the area without completely eliminating the natural hollow.
To address overfilling, practitioners often use the enzyme hyaluronidase to dissolve the excess filler. After allowing the area to settle, the correct amount of filler can be reapplied to achieve a natural appearance.
3. Discolouration Under the Eyes
When the filler is injected too superficially, it can result in a blue or green discolouration, commonly known as the “Tyndall effect.” This becomes more pronounced in natural daylight and is sometimes mistaken for bruising. Proper injection depth is crucial to avoid this issue.
The discolouration can be resolved by dissolving the filler with hyaluronidase. After a waiting period to ensure the area has stabilised, the filler can be correctly placed in deeper layers of the skin for a flawless finish.
4. Malar Oedema
Swelling in the cheek area, known as malar oedema, can result from improper filler placement or the use of unsuitable filler types. This condition can persist if not addressed and may require additional interventions.
Reducing filler volume or dissolving the filler with hyaluronidase can often correct malar oedema. Proper placement during subsequent treatments ensures this complication is avoided.
5. Infection
Although rare, infections can occur if the procedure is not performed under sterile conditions. Symptoms include redness, warmth, pain, or discharge around the injection site.
Infections require immediate medical attention and may involve antibiotics or, in severe cases, dissolving the filler.
6. Allergic Reactions
Some patients may experience an allergic reaction to the filler material, resulting in symptoms such as redness, swelling, or itching.
It is crucial to inform your practitioner about any known allergies before undergoing treatment. Allergic reactions may require antihistamines, steroids, or removal of the filler.
7. Vascular Complications
In rare cases, filler can inadvertently be injected into a blood vessel, causing vascular occlusion. This can lead to skin necrosis or, in extreme cases, blindness. Recognising and addressing these symptoms promptly is critical.
8. Lumps and Nodules
Uneven filler distribution or unsuitable filler types can lead to lumps or nodules under the skin. These are often visible and may cause discomfort.
Gentle massage, additional treatments, or dissolving the filler can resolve these issues. Corrective measures should be taken to ensure even filler distribution in future applications.
Why do Tear Trough Fillers Go Wrong?
Tear trough filler treatments are popular for addressing under-eye hollows and dark circles. However, like any cosmetic procedure, there are risks, and tear trough filler can go wrong if not administered properly. Here are some key reasons why this might happen:
1. Incorrect Injection Technique
The delicate skin under the eyes requires a precise technique. If the filler is injected too deeply, too superficially, or in the wrong areas, it can lead to visible lumps, an unnatural look, or an uneven appearance. An experienced practitioner who understands facial anatomy is essential to avoid these outcomes.
2. Choosing the Wrong Filler
There are various types of dermal fillers, each designed for different areas of the face. Using a filler that is too thick or heavy for the tear trough area can cause a puffy, swollen look. On the other hand, using a filler that is too thin may not provide the desired results. Selecting the right filler is crucial for achieving a smooth, natural-looking outcome.
3. Overfilling
While it’s tempting to add more filler to achieve a more dramatic result, overfilling the tear troughs can lead to a swollen or “puffy” look under the eyes. This can make the area appear unnatural and even worsen the appearance of bags under the eyes. It’s always better to start with a conservative approach and add more if necessary.
4. Infection or Allergic Reaction
Though rare, infections or allergic reactions to the filler material can occur. These complications can cause redness, swelling, pain, or more severe reactions. It’s important to ensure that the procedure is done in a clean, sterile environment and to discuss any allergies or concerns with the practitioner beforehand.
5. Untrained Practitioner
Not all providers are equally skilled, and selecting someone without proper training or experience in facial anatomy can increase the risk of complications. It’s crucial to choose a licensed and experienced professional, such as a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon, who understands the intricacies of tear trough filler injections.
6. Blood Vessel Damage
The under-eye area is rich in blood vessels, and improper injection can inadvertently damage these vessels. If a filler is injected into a blood vessel, it can cause bruising, swelling, or even more serious issues like tissue necrosis. This is why it’s important to choose an injector who is well-versed in anatomy and techniques to minimise these risks.
7. Underlying Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders or vascular issues, may increase the risk of complications from fillers. It’s important to be upfront with your practitioner about your medical history so they can tailor the treatment accordingly.
How to Fix Botched Tear Trough Filler?
To correct a poorly administered tear trough filler, the most common approach is to use an enzyme known as hyaluronidase, which effectively breaks down hyaluronic acid-based fillers. This allows a qualified practitioner to reinject the area with the appropriate amount of filler to achieve the desired effect; the process usually entails first dissolving the problematic filler and then carefully reinjecting the area with a more accurate placement of filler.
Key points about correcting a poorly administered tear trough filler:
- Hyaluronidase is the main solution: This enzyme efficiently degrades hyaluronic acid fillers, which are the most frequently used for tear trough injections, facilitating a swift correction of undesirable outcomes.
- Seek a qualified practitioner: It is essential to consult with an experienced injector who specialises in the sensitive under-eye area to evaluate the problem and decide on the best plan of action.
- Possibility of revision injections: Following the dissolution of the problematic filler, the practitioner may reinject the area with a reduced amount of filler to achieve a more natural appearance.
- Reflect on the cause of the issue: Comprehending why the initial filler was poorly administered, such as improper placement or excessive product, can assist the practitioner in avoiding similar errors during the revision.
Final Thoughts
While tear trough fillers can provide a nonsurgical solution to under-eye issues, it is essential to know about the potential complications. If you choose a qualified practitioner, understand the risks, and adhere to recommended care practices, people can minimise these risks and achieve their desired aesthetic results.
Frequently Asked Questions
When filler is over-injected or improperly placed, it can lead to lumps, bumps, or a swollen, unnatural look. This is especially evident because the skin beneath the eyes is delicate and thin.
Treatments for tear troughs (injections of dermal fillers like hyaluronic acid) are typically quite safe, though they can have possible side effects that patients should be informed about. The most frequent side effects are bruising and swelling, which are generally temporary and resolve naturally.
A common solution for a poorly administered tear trough filler is to use hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down fillers composed of hyaluronic acid. This treatment can often provide immediate improvement, though some swelling may linger for a short time.
Although genetic traits that cause tear troughs cannot be avoided, there are several actions you can take to reduce or postpone their appearance. It’s important to shield the skin beneath your eyes from sun exposure. Always remember to apply sunscreen in this often-neglected area.
Excess filler can occasionally result in an undesirable look for the area below the eyes. It can alter the natural contours and slopes. If this occurs, rest assured that the filler usually does not last many years, and you may need a hyaluronidase injection to dissolve the filler.
For tear trough treatments, hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are frequently the most recommended option. Since HA is a substance naturally found in the body, it is very compatible and safe for use in sensitive areas such as the under-eye area.
