The Tyndall effect under eyes from filler? (Photo)

Question

I am 63 years old and always did fine with needle depositing filler under my eye but opted for cannula this time. After the initial swelling went down I noticed it was blue and it kept getting bluer. Is this the Tyndall effect?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

The symptoms you describe do indeed sound like the Tyndall effect, which can occur after dermal filler injections, particularly in areas with thin skin such as under the eyes. The Tyndall effect is characterized by a bluish discoloration resulting from the light scattering through superficial placement of the filler. Here are some key points and recommendations:

1. Understanding the Tyndall Effect:

It occurs when hyaluronic acid fillers are injected too superficially under the skin, causing light to scatter and create a bluish tint.
2. Causes and Considerations:

The use of a cannula might have led to a more superficial placement of the filler compared to needle injections, which could explain the change in technique resulting in the Tyndall effect.
3. Management Options:

Hyaluronidase Treatment: This enzyme can be used to dissolve the hyaluronic acid filler, effectively reducing or eliminating the bluish discoloration.
Consultation: Schedule a follow-up consultation with your injector or a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to assess the situation and discuss treatment options.
4. Prevention in the Future:

Ensure that future filler injections are placed at the appropriate depth by an experienced practitioner to minimize the risk of the Tyndall effect.
5. Monitoring:

Keep an eye on the area for any changes or additional symptoms, such as swelling or pain, and report these to your healthcare provider.
It is advisable to contact your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and explore possible corrective measures. They can provide tailored advice and treatment to address the discoloration effectively.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It does appear that you may have the Tyndall effect.  It's not related to the use of the cannula but but the placement of the filler.  You can have the filler dissolved with hyaluronidase which should improve the blueish hue.

Stefan Weiss, MD · Answer

Although hard to assess in the photo, and not knowing the exact placement of filler, for reference the Tyndall Effect in the context of under-eye filler refers to a bluish discoloration that can occur when hyaluronic acid fillers are placed too superficially in the delicate under-eye area. This effect happens because light passing through the skin is scattered by the filler particles, creating a bluish hue.

Shaden Mohammad, MD · Answer

Based on the limited provided images, it does appear bluish and superficially placed filler is suspected (Tyndall effect). It is something that can improve/resolve with dissolve. Best of luck! Dr. Shaden, Woodland Hills, CA

The Tyndall effect under eyes from filler? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Tyndall effect and dissolve

Answer: Tyndall effect and dissolve

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Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

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The Tyndall effect under eyes from filler? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Tyndall effect and dissolve

Answer: Tyndall effect and dissolve

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

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