Dermal Filler Discoloration Under Eye Treatment: Overview, Benefits, and Side Effects
Dermal filler discoloration under eye treatment is among the non-surgical procedures available for people who wish to lighten and smooth out bags or dark circles located in the tear trough (the depressed region of the face where the lower eyelid and upper cheek meet). Experienced dermatologists who use injectable dermal fillers are often able to significantly improve the gaunt, sunken facial appearance of people with discolored under eye regions. Several types of dermal fillers are available, each of which has certain benefits and drawbacks.
About the Procedure
Dermal filler injections are commonly performed in a dermatologist’s office. The patient is first given a local anesthetic, which is followed by injections of the filler into the tear troughs. Dermatologists use thin needles when injecting dermal fillers into the under eye region, and the location of the injection varies according to which type of filler is administered.
A dermatologist can use one of several types of dermal fillers to mask the bothersome appearance of dark under eye circles. Examples of commonly used soft tissue dermal fillers include those composed of:
• Non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid. This filler is available under brand names such as Restalyne, Juvederm, and Perlane. Injected near the bone located under the eye socket, this type of temporary filler can last for up to a year.
• Autologous fat. This dermal filler is comprised of the patient’s own fat cells from other areas of the body. Autologous fat injections are inserted deep within the tear troughs.
• Silicone. A permanent dermal filler, silicone is injected into the tear troughs during a series of in-office visits. For optimal results, most patients should receive silicone dermal filler treatments once every four to six weeks for a total of two to four sessions.
• Poly-L-lactic acid. This type of filler should only be applied by dermatologists who are very experienced in under eye dermal injections. Inserted at uniform points along the bone of the tear trough, poly-L-lactic acid fillers are refreshed over several four-to-six week intervals, with results lasting up to two years.
Benefits of Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers offer several cosmetic benefits for people with prominent discoloration in the area beneath the eyes. This type of dermatological procedure is advantageous for those who:
• Desire the appearance of healthy, evenly-toned skin. Dermal fillers are designed to smooth the contours of the tear troughs and plump up the skin. Patients who undergo this treatment often lose the “tired and sickly” look associated with dark under eye circles.
• Wish to avoid the potential risks of a surgical procedure. Unlike lower eyelid surgery, dermal filler injections are non-invasive, much less likely to result in complications, and involve a shorter period of recovery.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
The process of injecting dermal fillers into the skin to treat under eye discoloration is generally safe and not associated with severe side effects. Patients who undergo this procedure may develop minor issues such as:
• Bruising. This side effect is temporary, though patients can decrease the likelihood of bruising by avoiding alcohol, aspirin, and herbs such as St. John’s Wort in the few weeks prior to receiving dermal fillers.
• Redness or irritation. This condition is also temporary in most patients and can be disguised with makeup or concealer.
• Swelling at the injection site. People can reduce swelling after the procedure by applying ice to the affected areas.
More serious complications include an allergic reaction to the dermal filler (typically avoided through a skin test prior to the procedure) and the development of skin nodules (associated with improperly-applied poly-L-lactic acid injections).
A person who is interested in dermal filler discoloration under eye treatment should consult a qualified dermatologist in order to discuss all aspects of the procedure and to determine which type of filler is most appropriate. Other methods of improving the appearance of dark circles under the eyes include applying topical creams, getting adequate sleep, and eating a nutrient-rich diet for healthy skin.
References
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American Academy of Dermatology–https://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/cosmetic_softtissue.html
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MedScapeCME–https://cme.medscape.com/viewarticle/573716
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Liquid Face Lift Association–https://www.liquidfacelift.com/eye_area_facialcontouring.asp
