Am I too young to have tear trough fillers?

Question

I recently turned 18 and has also recently realized that I have deep, prominent tear troughs that are accentuated due to my dark circles. I have tried covering them with makeup to no avail, and with support from my parents am considering having them filled. I am just wondering if there will be any repercussions due to how young I would be getting this procedure. I'd like to hear about any and all risks of getting fillers at my age just so I can weigh the pros and cons. Thank you!

Ivan Wayne, MD · Answer

Without seeing photos of the area you are concerned with I can't tell you if that is a good option for you. If you have a hollow under your eye creating shadows soft tissue fillers can work well here. We like Restylane Silk and Belotero in this area and we use blunt cannulas to reduce bruising. Allergic "bags" or the blueish swelling under the eyes is not usually improved with fillers. Seek an experienced injector who understands the anatomy of this area.

Douglas Wu, MD · Answer

There are many reasons why we get dark circles under the eyes, including volume loss, increased pigmentation, and increase vasculature.  Fillers can only treat the volume loss.  Therefore, it's important to consult with a board certified specialist with expertise and experience in treating this tricky area so as to determine the best approach for you.In terms of the risks associated with fillers in the tear troughs, these include pain and bruising.  Additionally, if the product is placed incorrectly in this area, then contour irregularities and a bluish discoloration can result.  Only non-permanent fillers should be used.  The fact that you are 18 is not as important as determining exactly why you are having dark circles under the eyes and treating in accordance with the cause.  If fillers are determined to be appropriate, then it is important to choose the correct product with the correct placement in the correct amount.

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.

Roberta Lucas, MD · Answer

It's very important not to do something you could regret. Tear trough treatments are probably the trickiest filler procedure and the most variable in results. However, younger patients do much better and so your age actually works in your favor. You should get a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist and be sure your provider has extensive experience with fillers.

Am I too young to have tear trough fillers?

Answers (4)

Answer: Tear Trough treatment at age 18

Answer: Tear Trough treatment at age 18

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.

Am I too young to have tear trough fillers?

Answers (4)

Answer: Tear Trough treatment at age 18

Answer: Tear Trough treatment at age 18

Browse related questions

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.