Can there be damage to the lymphatic drainage system around the eyes from Restylane injections in the tear trough?

Most often, the weak lymphatic drainage is there before the injection, just undiagnosed. You could still have filler in place and you may need more Vitrase. Best wishes, Dr. ALDO 

Thank you for your question.  I'm sorry to hear that you're experiencing chronic swelling after your Restylane injections.  Chronic swelling under the eyes (also known as malar edema) is a known complication of under eye and tear trough filler injections.  This typically occurs because the superficial fat compartment under the eyes has relatively poor lymphatic drainage to begin with.  If an injector places too much filler superficially under the eyes, this can further block lymphatic drainage, resulting in chronic swelling.  Generally speaking, this is not permanent damage to the lymphatic system, and this swelling typically resolves once the filler has been dissolved.  Please keep in mind that it can often take multiple sessions of hyaluronidase injections to fully dissolve Restylane.The under eyes and tear troughs are among the most complex areas to treat with fillers.  I would recommend seeing a highly experienced cosmetic dermatologists, plastic surgeon, or oculoplastic surgeon for treatment.  Best of luck!

This does not sound right. It would be helpful to know when you were injected with the filler.  any injection should not affect lymph drainage and Vitrase if indicated should have helped.  I suggest you seek a second opinion with a board certified oculoplastic surgeon

I've never heard of this theory so I would look at other causes.  Could you still have residual filler that still needs to be dissolved?  Have you had Botox to your crows feet over the last few months?  Botox in this area can definitely affect fluid drainage.  I don't believe you have permanent damage and I also don't think surgery would be the solution. Hope this helps and best of luck.