How to get rid of tear troughs without surgery? (under eye bags) (photos)

Question

I have terrible under eye bags which I was told were tear troughs? A doctor advised I get fillers when I am older but I really don't want to get surgery or injections, is there any creams or actions that could at least improve them a little? Done some research which said the tear troughs might be caused by fat, if I exercised would that go away? This is completely destroying my self confidence and people keep telling me to 'grow to love them' but i really really can't do that. PLease help me!

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Fillers can work wonders, but I don't think your bags look bad. I would suggest that you try investing in a good, creamy concealer to be used on the inside crease. I think this will brighten your eye and make you feel less self conscious.  
My best,
Dr. Sheila Nazarian
@drsheilanazarian on Instagram

James R. Gordon, MD, FACS, FAAO · Answer

Thank you for the question and photos. Sorry to hear that your eyelid bags are so bothersome. Unfortunately, there are no creams that will get rid of them. Fillers are a safe way of masking them by blending the bags into the cheek. There are surgical options as well which can be performed when you are older. For now, use cold compresses, sleep with your head slightly elevated and don't eat too much salty foods. I hope you find this helpful. Good luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

There are many ways to treat dark circles, as well as under eye wrinkles and bags. It is important to note however, that the majority of times the cause for discoloration is genetic and due to the viability of the blood vessels below the skin. A combination approach is always needed to get the best results in this area and this includes: topical skin care, laser and/or radiofrequency treatments, and fillers if placed appropriately. All my patients are on topical lightening agents, typically a vitamin C serum product in the AM and a brightening agent and/or a vitamin A based product in the PM. Sun protection is essential.Resurfacing and tightening are essential. My patients get offered a menu of options, for which a combination gives the best results. Light salicylic acid peels help give textural and pigment improvement; nonablative lasers (Fraxel or Clear + Brilliant) can be used to tighten and improve fine lines/wrinkles and crepe skin; fractional radiofrequency devices (Sublative, Viva) are cutting edge and improve texture, tone, and wrinkles with very little downtime; radiofrequency with pulsed electromagnetic fields (Venus) are amazing for puffiness and bags, in patients who do not want eyelid surgery; appropriately placed fillers can replace lost volume, cover up the vessels and fat pads below improving the appearance -- patients should pick a well experienced practitioner to prevent complications such as Tyndall (blue discoloration) and irregularities, one that uses a cannula for injection will help give results with little bruising or swelling; microsecond Nd:YAG laser treatments (Laser genesis) has produced dramatic improvement in discoloration in some of my patients and is safe in dark skin types, similar to the radiofrequency devices. For lifting, ablative laser resurfacing such as co2 laser combined with monopoloar radiofrequency deep heating (thermage) give amazing results. The key is for a patient to see a cosmetic dermatologist with experience in all the latest devices and techniques so the persons goals can be met by a combination approach of individualized treatments and skin care. In some cases, those who smile and have crepe skin or under eye wrinkles, a small amount of neurotoxin (botox, dysport, xeomin) strategically placed in the lower eyelid skin can improve wrinkles dramatically and give the eye a more "open" appearance.

Soheila Rostami, MD, FAAO, FAACS · Answer

There is great improvement of the lower eyelid tear trough with filler injection. I like Restylane and Voluma for the lower eyelids.

Jose Rodríguez-Feliz, MD · Answer

Thank you for posterior photos.  What you are seeing in with concern in the most it is related to early development what is known as the tear troughs.  Fillers in this area could help improve the indent that you are noticing.  This is a temporary measure and would need to be done every 6-12 months.  This area tends to be very tricky to inject you must go to a physician that has experience doing this.  Expect some mild bruising and swelling, and always plan this during the time where you do not have any major events.  Hope this was helpful.  Good luck!

How to get rid of tear troughs without surgery? (under eye bags) (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Filler injection of tear trough

Answer: Filler injection of tear trough

Answer: Tear troughs

Answer: Tear troughs

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How to get rid of tear troughs without surgery? (under eye bags) (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Filler injection of tear trough

Answer: Filler injection of tear trough

Answer: Tear troughs

Answer: Tear troughs

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.