Under Eye Fillers: Potential Problems Patients Should Be Aware Of
For many, dermal fillers have become an incredibly valuable treatment option for tackling the signs of aging. The treatment is highly tailored to each person, making it perfect for restoring lost volume without risking the look of overt cosmetic treatment.
One of the most popular applications of dermal fillers is below the eyes. As we age, fat cells begin to diminish in this part of the face, causing dark circles to appear below the eyes and making patients look older than they truly are. However, just because the treatment is non-surgical, there are still some risks involved with the procedure.
If you’re considering under-eye fillers, here’s what you need to know.
Not all specialists are experienced
As dermal fillers require no surgery, many patients feel that undergoing this treatment is less serious than more aggressive facial rejuvenations. In truth, the skin around the eyes and tear trough is among the most sensitive parts of the body. Successful under eye filler treatment therefore requires a specialist with extensive anatomical knowledge and an eye for detail in order to provide patients with natural looking results. Without this important background in technical skill, patients can be at serious risk for a number of complications including:
Incorrect filler being used
Fillers made from hyaluronic acid (HA) are considered among the safest on the market, in part because the formula is derived from a naturally occurring substance and can be dissolved as needed.
However, innovation in HA filler types over recent years has seen the development of different HA formulas, each of which are designed to address diminished volume in different parts of the face. For the delicate under eye skin, the formula is much thinner and smoother than the kind used to lift sagging cheeks. Using the wrong formula can create an overdone appearance and can be challenging to immediately reverse.
Improper application
While the bags beneath your eyes may seem endless, the area is anatomically much smaller than any other part of the body that would be potentially treated with dermal fillers. As such, technical knowledge of the muscles, skin and bone below the eye are critical for any experienced cosmetic specialist. When dermal fillers are applied in the wrong position, patients can be left with lumpy, uneven and unflattering results.
Too much filler can also be an unfortunate complication associated with inexperienced physicians. As the skin in this part of the face is so thin, it can be easy to over-inject the gel and create a lumpy, bulging looking undereye treatment. Going slow and planning for gradual application is often the best way of achieving a look that appears more natural rather than over volumized.
Under-eye fillers may not provide the complete solution
Collagen depletion doesn’t just affect one part of the face – usually, the entire face will experience volume loss as production slows. While adding fillers strategically below the eyes can help improve an individual’s overall appearance, it can appear mismatched if the surrounding cheeks and skin are left sagging.
Likewise, too much skin laxity can be difficult to successfully address with dermal fillers alone. For some patients who’ve already shown signs of aging, combination treatments that leverage dermal fillers as well as injectables like BOTOX® and even minor plastic surgeries may provide better, longer lasting results.
During your consultation, an experienced cosmetic dermatologist will apply a holistic eye to treatment plan development to ensure that the result lifts your overall look, not just your eyes. For example, at Aria DermSpa patients meet one-on-one with board-certified cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Donofrio to discuss their concerns and identify short- and long-term solutions that stall the aging process. By offering the latest anti-aging and facial rejuvenation options, our Madison cosmetic specialist is able to transform appearances and self-confidence.
Find the best solution at Aria DermSpa
Whether you’re set on under eye fillers or are exploring your options, Dr. Donofrio is committed to helping all patients identify the best treatment for their appearance. To learn more about available treatment options, call our office at (203) 421-6674 and schedule your consultation today!