Have you been struggling with dark circles, eye bags, or a sunken appearance under your eyes? If so, you’re not alone. These common concerns can make us look tired and aged, even when we’re feeling our best.
As we age, our eyes can be one of the first areas to show visible signs of ageing. Dark eye circles and puffy under eye bags are common concerns among both men and women, with many seeking ways to rejuvenate their tired-looking eyes. While there are various treatment options available, tear trough fillers have been gaining popularity in Singapore as a safe and effective solution for ageing eyes.
What are Tear Trough Fillers?
Tear trough fillers are also known as under eye fillers. Tear trough fillers are injectable treatments designed to improve the appearance of dark eye circles and puffy under eye bags. Made from hyaluronic acid or synthetic materials such as polylactic acid (PDLLA), these fillers help to restore volume and improve skin quality in the under eye area.
So why are they becoming increasingly popular in Singapore? The answer lies in their ability to provide natural-looking results without the need for invasive surgery or downtime. Plus, with the advancements in technology and techniques, getting under eye fillers done is now a quick and relatively painless procedure.
Ageing Eyes
Before we can fully appreciate the benefits of tear trough fillers, it’s important to understand what causes our eyes to age. Dark eye circles, also known as periorbital hyperpigmentation, can be caused by a variety of factors such as genetics, lifestyle habits, and even allergies. As we age, our skin also becomes thinner and less elastic, making the underlying blood vessels more visible and resulting in dark circles. Loss of volume in the undereye area can also lead to undereye sunkenness which can manifest as a dark eye circle appearance.
On the other hand, puffy under eye bags are caused by a combination of factors including ageing skin, weakened muscles, and fat deposits that accumulate over time. This can give the appearance of tired-looking eyes or a perpetually sad expression.
How Under Eye Fillers Improve Dark Eye Circles and Eye Bags
So how exactly do tear trough fillers help with these common concerns? By injecting dermal fillers such as hyaluronic acid or collagen stimulators such as polylactic acid into the under eye area, the filler helps to improve skin quality and reduce sunkenness. This not only reduces the appearance of dark circles but also improves undereye support and helps to make eye bags less visible.
One of the main benefits of using under eye fillers is that they provide immediate results with minimal downtime. Unlike surgery, which requires incisions and recovery time, getting tear trough fillers done can take as little as 15 minutes and you can resume your normal activities immediately after.
Types of Under Eye Fillers
Now that we understand the issues affecting the undereye area, let’s explore the different types of dermal fillers used for tear troughs in Singapore. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers are the most commonly used type for this procedure. It’s a naturally occurring substance in our bodies that helps retain moisture and keep our skin plump and hydrated. When injected into the undereye area, it can restore volume and improve the appearance of dark circles and hollows.
There are various brands of hyaluronic acid-based fillers available in Singapore, such as Restylane®, Juvederm®, Teoxane and Belotero®. Each brand may have different formulations or consistencies, making them suitable for different concerns. For example, a thicker filler may be used for deeper hollows, while a thinner one may be used for fine lines.
Other types of fillers include purified collagen gel fillers such as Deusaderm and collagen stimulators such as polylactic acid or calcium hydroxyapetite.
Collagen is another natural substance found in our bodies that helps with skin firmness and elasticity. Collagen gel fillers such as Deusaderm have a whitish color and can be injected superficially without risk of tyndall effect, making them suitable for helping to conceal periorbital hyperpigmentation.
Collagen stimulator fillers such as Juvelook (Poly-DL-lactic acid or PDLLA) stimulate collagen production and have a dual benefit of gentle volumization in addition to improvement of skin texture and quality.
Ultimately, the type of filler used will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It’s important to consult with a qualified doctor who can assess your condition and recommend the best option for you.
Type of Under Eye Filler Technique Used for Injections
There are two main techniques used when injecting under eye fillers: sharp needle injection technique and the blunt cannula technique.
The needle technique involves using a small, thin needle to inject filler directly into the desired area. This is typically used for smaller or more precise areas.
On the other hand, the cannula technique involves using a blunt-tipped tube to distribute filler along a larger area. This can be useful for treating multiple areas at once. This technique also minimises the number of injection points needed and greatly reduces the risk of bruising and downtime.
Choosing the Best Tear Trough (Under eye) Treatment for You
With so many treatment options available for ageing eyes, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which one is best for you. When choosing an eye bag treatment, there are a few factors to consider:
- Severity of dark circles or under eye bags: Depending on the severity of your concerns, you may need more than just fillers to achieve the desired results. In some cases, a combination of treatments such as machine assisted skin tightening (eg. Lasers or radiofrequency), skinboosters (eg. Juvelook) and fillers may be recommended.
- Personal preferences: Some people prefer non-invasive or reversible treatments. In that case, tear trough fillers would be a better option compared to surgery.
In comparison to other treatments like surgery or laser therapy, under eye fillers have several advantages. Under eye fillers are minimally invasive and require no downtime, making them more convenient for those with busy schedules. Plus, with the use of numbing cream and a skilled doctor, pain during the procedure can be minimal. Under eye fillers also usually lead to immediate improvement, compared to a more gradual process requiring a few repeated sessions with machines such as lasers.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Now that you’ve decided on getting under eye fillers done, what can you expect during the actual procedure? Before any injections are made, your doctor will first assess your concerns and determine the most suitable type of filler for you. Once this is established, they will then apply a numbing cream to minimise any discomfort.
Next, tiny injections will be made into strategic points around the under eye area. The number of injections needed depends on individual needs and desired results. You may feel a slight pinch or pressure during the injections but rest assured it is bearable and over quickly. Your doctor will also massage and mould the filler to achieve a natural-looking result.
Aftercare and Results
Once the procedure is completed, your doctor will provide you with aftercare instructions to ensure optimal results. You may experience some mild swelling or bruising immediately after but this should subside within a few days. It’s important to avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area to prevent any displacement of the filler.
The results of tear trough fillers are immediate, with improvements in dark circles and under eye bags visible right after the procedure. However, it’s important to note that results can vary from person to person depending on factors such as skin type and lifestyle habits. On average, results can last up to 6-12 months before a touch-up treatment is needed.
Post-Filler Care and Maintenance
While tear trough fillers require minimal downtime, there are some aftercare tips that can help maintain and prolong their effects. These include avoiding strenuous exercise or activities that may increase blood flow to the face for 24-48 hours after treatment. It’s also recommended to avoid wearing makeup in the treated area for at least 12 hours.
To maintain the results of your filler, it’s essential to follow a proper skincare routine and protect your skin from sun damage by using sunscreen daily.
Conclusion
Under eye fillers are a popular and effective option for improving the appearance of ageing eyes. With minimal downtime, natural-looking results, and various options available, it’s no wonder why they are gaining popularity in Singapore. If you’re looking to rejuvenate your under eye area, consult with a reputable doctor to determine if tear trough fillers are the right choice for you.
FAQs about Tear Trough Fillers in Singapore
Yes, when performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner, tear trough fillers are considered safe and have minimal side effects. It’s important to follow post-procedure care instructions to avoid any complications.
As mentioned earlier, this depends on various factors but on average, results can last anywhere from 6 months to 1 year. Touch-up treatments may be required every 6-12 months to maintain the effects.
The discomfort during the procedure is usually minimal, thanks to topical numbing creams and ice that are applied beforehand. Some mild soreness or bruising may occur after the treatment, but it should subside within a few days.
Tear trough fillers are generally safe when performed by an experienced doctor. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects such as swelling, bruising, infection, and allergic reactions. It’s essential to discuss these with your doctor before undergoing the treatment.
Yes, hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase if necessary. However, collagen-stimulating and non-hyaluronic acid fillers cannot be reversed.