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Under eye filler is touted as an effective treatment for diminishing dark circles. But is it for everyone? The answer, according to the pros, is no.

Whether the result of stress, screen time, lack of sleep or genetics, dark circles under the eyes are not uncommon. And in most cases, they tend to become more pronounced with age. “This is because the area underneath the eyes, known as the tear trough, loses volume as we age – becoming more sunken,” explains Daniel Ezra, specialist ophthalmic and oculoplastic consultant at Moorfields Eye Hospital.

It is a natural part of the ageing process (albeit one we may not like) that doesn’t need cosmetic intervention. The best concealers and eye creams can truly work wonders here. But if you are contemplating a cosmetic procedure to remove dark circles caused by volume loss – specifically under eye filler (also known as tear trough filler) – swot up on the facts first. Increasingly in-demand, Google searches for ‘tear trough filler’ have shot up 50% in the past year. On TikTok, ‘tear trough filler results’ has amassed 18 million views and counting.

But before you get pulled in by the before and afters, be sure to do your research. As with all cosmetic procedures, it is not without risk and finding a highly qualified, reputable expert is key. Ahead, expert injectors break down everything you need to know about under eye filler – including downtime, side effects and results.

“Under eye filler is a popular cosmetic solution for tackling tired looking eyes,” explains Ezra. “It is a non-surgical procedure that involves carefully injecting a gel-like substance into specific areas around the eyes, which works to replace the lost volume brought about through the ageing process.”

Not that dissimilar to any other hyaluronic acid fillers, under eye filler is like a watered down version. “Regular fillers will be noticeable under the very thin skin under the eye and are likely to attract water, resulting in puffiness or swelling,” says Dr Joney De Souza, award-winning cosmetic doctor based in Marylebone. This is why under eye fillers are much softer and more liquid in consistency.

“Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers injected into the tear trough can help add volume to areas where volume has been lost,” says Dr Maryam Zamani, oculoplastic surgeon, facial aesthetics doctor and founder of MZ Skin. And as we already mentioned, we lose volume as we age which can lead to hollowing under the eyes that, in turn, creates shadows and exposes bags. “Without the hollowing, the eyes look immediately brighter and less tired,” continues Zamani.

So, under eye fillers are an effective option for patients with tear trough hollows and under-eye bags. “They are not, however, helpful with swelling,” notes De Souza, “and in fact, are more likely to worsen this issue.” It’s also worth noting that while under eye fillers can improve darkness under the eyes – “this isn’t always the case,” says De Souza, “when the darkness is a result of excessive pigmentation, it will have no impact.”

“Tear trough filler works best in individuals who have dark circles or bags caused by volume loss or mid face descent,” says Zamani.

It may be a simple procedure, but it still has potential risks. “Beyond the risk of bruising, swelling and occasional infection, the main risks include excessive placement of fillers, that cause an unnatural appearance; superficial injection of the filler, making it visible and unsightly; placement of a filler that attracts water, giving the appearance of swelling,” lists De Souza.

In the extremely rare episodes in which the product is injected inside a vein, particularly when using a needle instead of a cannula, it may lead to vision loss. “This is why it is so important to seek a qualified and highly experienced injector who not only knows the anatomy but also knows the signs and symptoms of potential issues and how to treat them effectively,” adds Zamani.

According to Zamani, hyaluronic acid fillers can last anywhere between six to 18 months. “Although in my experience, I have seen that it can be even longer.” De Souza seconds this and adds that results tend to last for at least two years.

As with any other injectable treatment like Botox or profhilo, there is some level of discomfort. But, as Zamani assures, under eye filler is a quick procedure. “Before the treatment, numbing cream is applied onto the area, followed by the insertion of the cannula that will place the filler at a deeper level, which can cause some discomfort,” explains De Souza.

When using a cannula, one to three insertion points are created and the cannula is inserted. With a needle, injection points vary. “I air on the side of caution and inject less rather than more,” says Zamani. “If patients feel they need more, they can rerun after two weeks for re-evaluation.”

The experts confirm that results are noticeable immediately. “But it is only after 10 days that the final result can be seen,” says De Souza. In most cases, there is no downtime and there is very little swelling or bruising.

Prices vary depending on who you see and where you go to have the procedure. Generally speaking, under eye filler usually costs upwards of £650. At Zamani’s clinic in London, treatment starts from £875.

If you are seriously considering this treatment, don’t shop around for a good deal. It’s always best to go to a reputable doctor with lots of experience in this area.

“Don’t exercise on the day of treatment,” says Zamani. “After treatment, I recommend no steam, sauna, facial or massage for one week.” If you do experience swelling, Zamani recommends taking an antihistamine to help.

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