Is it risky to inject Volbella under the eyes without a cannula? (Photo)

Many board-certified dermatologists prefer cannulas because there may be less chance of bruising when inserting dermal fillers. However, an expert injector who’s comfortable and experienced using needles can get results that are just as good. That’s why the most important part of your job, when considering any kind of cosmetic or medical procedure, is to find the absolute best doctor. Ask to see your doctor’s before-and-afters or talk to a few of her patients, if you need to. Taking your time consulting with board-certified dermatologists to find the best one ultimately saves you time and money.

Eyelid filler injection using needle is very safe but it would depend on the injector's preference and comfort level. 

This will be due to your practitioner's preference. I recommend injections with cannulas to limit swelling and/or bruising. Keep in mind, a combination approach will give the most improvement. Fillers, lasers, and microneedling/PRP can improve under the eyes. My patients try to get non surgical treatments to avoid surgery. We use PRP and stem cells there often. I suggest consulting with an expert to develop a treatment plan best suited for your short and long term goals. Best, Dr. Emer

First of all, the notion that cannulas are any safer than needles was put to rest in a recent study in the Dermatology literature.  While I prefer to use needles, I know a number of my colleagues who prefer cannulas.  This is really more of a style issue and a personal preference.  But to say that there is any less bruising or less risk with a cannula is simply not correct.  Most importantly, choose an injector with experience in this area and ask about their training qualifications.  Here in Colorado, we literally have non-medical personnel injecting these products and so you absolutely need to know who is performing your procedure.I hope that helps and wish you the very best!Warmest regards,-Gregory A Buford MD FACSBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon and AuthorCertified Allergan MASTER Facial Injectables Trainer

Microcannulas are blunt tipped and if used correctly should not puncture a vein or artery limiting the risk of intravascular injection and bruising. 

Both needles and cannulas are used to place fillers into the lower lids.  I prefer to use a cannula as I think that there is lower incidence of bruising.  With the cannula, I make one small opening over the cheek with a needle and then use the cannula through this opening to fill both the tear trough and the outer/lateral part of the lower lid. So if someone gets a bruise, it is from that needle stick, and this can occur.  With a needle there are a series of injections given.  So this will increase the chances of bruising.  For any filler you need to be prepared to have some bruising. 

Both techniques are low risk to the patient overall but I do prefer a cannula since there is less bruising.  Regardless of technique, I highly recommend you choose a board certified dermatologist or plastics surgeon with experience in this delicate technique.  One to two syringes is typical.  

Having injected many hundreds, if not thousands, of tear troughs, using both needles and cannulas, I feel that I am qualified to comment on your question.  In skilled hands, cannula lowers the risk of bruising and intravascular injection.  It's not just the cannula. It's the injector directing and controlling the cannula.  Also, Restylane is my favorite and most widely used filler for the tear trough.Best,Dr. Ort

Thank you for this very interesting and relevant question.
There are always risks associated with the injection of filler ... with both methods.  It truly depends on the skill, technique and experience of the Board Certified Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon who is doing the injection.  It is VERY important that you research the qualifications and experience of the physician you chose to treat you.
Physicians who inject dermal fillers have their preference as to the method of injection.  Understand, however, that bruising can occur with cannulas as well as with conventional syringes.