Tear troughs and dark under-eye circles are cosmetic imperfections that occur to many people as they age. While they are not signs of a serious medical condition, they do add to a tired and worn out appearance that many people wish to correct. Fortunately there are several cosmetic treatments that can address tear troughs and under-eye circles, including dermal fillers.
In this blog post, Dr. Ali Ghafouri, an experienced and skilled Scottsdale facial plastic surgeon shares more information on dermal fillers and how they can treat tear troughs and under-eye circles.
What Causes Tear Troughs and Under-Eye Circles?
The area beneath the lower eyelids naturally has small pads of fat. Over time, the skin in this area begins to loosen and thin, causing the fat pads to sag and bulge. This in turn creates the appearance of puffy under-eye bags or circles. As you age, tear troughs also begin to form. A tear trough is a fold or groove that begins at the inner eye corner and extends to create a semi-circle arc under the eye. This is a result of loss of volume and drooping of the cheek and mid-face area. A deep tear trough can create a shadow that accentuates the appearance of bulging under-eye bags.
Eating certain foods, drinking alcohol, smoking and lack of sleep can all worsen the appearance of under-eye circles and troughs. While following a good skin care regimen, not smoking and getting plenty of sleep can minimize under-eye circles in the short term, only cosmetic procedures can produce long-lasting results.
How Dermal Fillers Can Help
Dermal fillers are a non-surgical solution to smooth out dark under-eye circles and tear troughs so they are less noticeable. Dr. Ghafouri offers several fillers that are formulated with hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance that adds volume and fullness to the area. The doctor can inject small amounts of a hyaluronic acid-based filler in the tear troughs, as well as along the borders of the under-eye circles and cheek area to smooth out the transition between upper cheek and lower eyelid. This minimizes the appearance of under-eye circles. Because hyaluronic acid helps the skin to retain moisture, the area under the lower eyelids will begin to appear plumper and more nourished, adding to a youthful appearance.
Potential patients should be aware that dermal fillers only offer temporary results. Depending on the specific product, results can last between one to two years. Repeat sessions are needed to maintain the effects of dermal fillers. Dr. Ghafouri can discuss the benefits and limitations of each dermal filler and recommend one based on your specific needs and goals.
Contact Us Today
To learn more about dermal fillers, or the other cosmetic treatment options Dr. Ghafouri offers for under-eye circles and tear troughs, schedule a consultation. Please contact Arizona Oculoplastic Specialists by calling (480) 905-1010 or emailing our office today.