While the trend for tear troughs may not be as strong as before, many people still seek to enhance the under-eye area, as a lack of volume can make the face appear flat.

 

Tear trough fillers are not just about filling in sunken areas, but also about shaping the area like lip fillers.

 

Therefore, the technique of injecting the appropriate amount at the correct location is crucial.

 

Both needles and cannulas can be used for this procedure, and in this article, we will explain in detail the benefits and drawbacks of each, as well as the precautions to take during the treatment.

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What is Tear Trough Filler?

The tear trough refers to the area of subcutaneous fat just below the eyes.

 

When it naturally bulges, especially when you smile, it creates a cute and youthful impression, which is why it is called "애교살" (Egyeosal) or "charming meat" in Korea.

In the procedure, fillers are injected above or inside the orbicularis oculi muscle, which is located under the eyes.

 

The amount of filler varies depending on the patient’s preferences and the type of filler used, but generally, a total of up to 1cc for both sides is common.

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Tear Trough Filler: Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Needle

In tear trough filler procedures, both needles and cannulas can be used, but the appropriate method depends on the practitioner and the patient’s tear trough condition.

 

Let’s first look at the benefits and drawbacks of using a needle:

 

✅ Benefits

• Easier to create a clear shape if the tear trough is not well-defined.
• Allows for finer adjustments, resulting in a more natural finish.
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❌ Drawbacks

• Multiple needle insertions are required, which can lead to increased pain.
• There is a higher chance of bruising, swelling, and hematomas.
• If blood vessels are damaged, the size may vary between sides, requiring a touch-up.

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🔹 Example of a Needle Procedure

 

In this case, the patient’s tear troughs were not well-defined, so a needle was used to shape the area and achieve a clearer result.

The photos are provided with the patient's consent.
2024.02.24, On the Day of Treatment
(Left) Before Treatment / (Right) After Treatment

 

Possible side effects of fillers include complications related to blood vessels, bruising, bleeding, and necrosis.

 

Looking at the post-treatment photo, there is noticeable bruising and swelling.

 

As shown, when there is no distinct tear trough shape, the needle can be used for detailed design.

 

However, this method tends to have a longer downtime.

 

Therefore, except for special cases, cannulas are generally used for this procedure.

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Tear Trough Filler: Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Cannula

 

Next, let's look at the benefits and drawbacks of using a cannula:

 

✅ Benefits

• Minimizes bruising and swelling.
• Since it is not sharp like a needle, it causes less damage to blood vessels, making it safer.
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❌ Drawbacks

• If the tear trough does not have a defined shape, it can be difficult to create a clean line.
• Designing uneven areas and making fine adjustments can be more challenging.

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🔹 Example of a Cannula Procedure

The photos are provided with the patient's consent.
2024.02.29, On the Day of Treatment
(Left) Before Treatment / (Right) After Treatment

 

Possible side effects of fillers include complications related to blood vessels, bruising, bleeding, and necrosis.

 

This patient had previously received tear trough fillers, and since the shape was well-defined, a cannula was used.

 

Even immediately after the procedure, there was minimal swelling and bruising, and the natural shape was maintained.

 

Cannulas have a lower risk of blood vessel damage and shorter downtime, which is why they are commonly used in many cases.

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Characteristics of Faces Not Suitable for Tear Trough Fillers

 

Tear trough fillers are not suitable for everyone.

 

Particularly, if you have the following characteristics, extra caution is needed:

 

🔹 People with narrow or sharp-shaped eyes

For individuals with narrow or sharp eyes, creating a tear trough can cause the outer corners of the eyes to lift, which may further emphasize the sharpness of the eyes.

🔹 Excessive Tear Troughs for Age
Tear troughs are naturally formed in younger individuals, but as we age, they gradually diminish. Therefore, adding excessive filler to the tear troughs can result in an unnatural appearance.

 

🔹 Individuals with Excess Fat Under the Eyes
If there is already a significant amount of fat under the eyes, adding more filler can create unevenness and lead to an unnatural result.

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Always Consult a Specialist Before the Procedure!

 

Tear trough fillers can greatly change your appearance, but it’s not recommended to undergo the treatment without a clear plan.

 

Especially if the tear troughs are not naturally defined or if there is excess fat under the eyes, the results may not be as expected.

 

It’s crucial to have a thorough consultation with a specialist before the treatment to determine a design that suits your face. 😊

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🔹 Summary (3-line overview)

 

✔ Needles create a well-defined tear trough but are more likely to cause bruising and swelling.

✔ Cannulas cause less bruising and swelling but are not suitable if the tear troughs are not already defined.

✔ Not suitable for everyone, so it's important to consult with a specialist before the procedure.

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I hope this has been helpful to everyone!

 

💬 If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment 😊

 

Thank you for reading until the end!

 

📍 Primi Clinic
52 Seongsu-ilro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 3F (Primi Clinic)