About Tear Troughs (Brisbane)

The tear trough describes the groove beneath the lower eyelid, running from the inner corner toward the cheek. Its depth and visibility vary by individual and can be influenced by genetics, midface support, skin quality, pigmentation and lighting/shadowing. With time, some people notice more pronounced hollowing or shadows at the eyelid–cheek junction.

Why consider a tear trough consultation?

Because the lower eyelid is a delicate, anatomy-dense area, care should be doctor-led. After assessment, we can discuss personalised, non-surgical options that may help:

  • Soften the appearance of hollowing at the eyelid–cheek junction

  • Reduce the look of shadowing that can make the area appear tired

  • Improve contour continuity between the lower lid and upper cheek

Suitability & assessment

Candidacy is confirmed in a clinical examination that may review eyelid shape, orbital rim anatomy, lower-lid tone, midface support, skin quality and pigmentation. In some cases, adjacent areas (e.g., midface/cheek) or skin-quality measures are prioritised for the most natural-looking outcome. Alternatives and staged approaches are discussed where appropriate.

Important: Some options discussed in consultation may involve a prescription-only medicine. We do not advertise prescription-only medicines to the public. Any such option can only be discussed and, if appropriate, provided after a consultation with a registered medical practitioner. Individual results vary; no outcome is guaranteed.

Volume

The eyes are in constant motion, and perhaps more than we realise (when squinting or smiling, for example), which affects the surrounding areas. This makes it essential to see an experienced injector who will recommend the most appropriate amount for injecting in the tear trough as the tear trough is one of the most complicated areas to inject. It is also imperative that patience is exercised and that this area does not become over-treated, which will result in overfilled tear trough, giving an unnatural look

Shape

Proper injecting technique is a crucial component in ensuring that small white ‘bumps’ do not appear several months after your treatment. Tear trough correction is very common worldwide and correcting misplaced treatment from treatment elsewhere is a very common procedure at our clinic. Additionally, utilising the proper volume & contour treatment product is imperative as one should be chosen that provides lift, whilst not attracting water to the area. Both of these factors will ensure that the shape remains smooth and consistent long after your appointment.

Rejuvenation/Restructuring

Loss of fat pads and orbital bone all contribute greatly to the darkening and hollowing of the tear trough area; all of which further age you. Most people only inject the middle section of the under eye area to inner eye corner area but it is also important to be able to see and treat the outer section of the under eye area (which is very often neglected or under-treated) to achieve a smooth, blended look.

Beyond The Box

We think far ahead before we pick up our syringe and inject. Many factors come into our mind when we treat your under eye areas. It is crucial to make the correct diagnosis for the reason of undereye hollowing – is it due to cheek deficiency or true undereye hollowing, or both? Without addressing the actual underlying cause, the undereye area will not look well-treated.

FAQs

Purpose of Tear Trough Treatment

Periorbital Volume Loss Patterns

Classification of Morphology of the Periorbital Volume Loss Patterns

Image Credit: Codner M, Hirmand H. Plastic Surgery Key. 2016. Lid–Cheek Blending: The Tear Trough Deformity. [online] Available at: https://plasticsurgerykey.com/lid-cheek-blending-the-tear-trough-deformity/ [Accessed 14 June 2020].

Clinical Dosage

The clinical dosage is solely determined by:

  1. Volume of cheeks
  2. Degree of undereye hollowing
  3. Volume of temples

Tear trough treatment may require multiple sessions with graduated treatment approach due to the anatomical complexity and unforgiving nature of the area.

Areas To Be Treated

If there is cheek volume deficiency, this needs to be treated first.

Once the cheeks are adequated volumised, this often results in reduction of lid-cheek junctions and may indirectly improve the tear trough without the need for further treatment.

Pain Relief

Most patients do not require any form of anaesthesia as the procedure is very tolerable.

If needed, ice and topical anaesthesia are available.

There is anaesthetic agent in the treatment which will make the procedure even more tolerable.

Tear Trough Procedure

  1. Detailed consultation and contraindications screened.
  2. Physical evaluation of the undereye & surrounding areas.
  3. Pre-procedure: Antiseptic wash.
  4. Disinfection of the face again with Chlorhexidine and Ethanol.
  5. A dermal filling cannula will be introduced.
  6. Your tolerance and progress is monitored throughout.
  7. You might be required to sit up or animate during the procedure multiple times throughout for aesthetic outcomes.
  8. Disinfect and pressure/massage may be applied.

Procedure Downtime

Swelling is possible and common for the first 48 hours. Any swelling and bruises after 24 hours can usually be covered with makeup easily.

Potential Side Effects/Complications

As with all medical procedures, side effects or complications are possible. These are usually very mild, minor and self-limited.

Common 

  • Swelling
  • Bruises
  • Possible asymmetry
  • Possible need for further treatment/product

Rare

  • Delayed allergic reaction
  • Granuloma
  • Infection

Very Rare

  • Vascular occlusion causing skin necrosis leading to scarring if not treated early
  • Blindness

Procedure Aftercare

Please refer to our Pre- & Post Procedural Instructions page.

Book a Consultation — Undereye Hollowing (Brisbane)

Enhancing your profile is a personal choice. At Eleventh Heaven Brisbane, your doctor-led consultation is a one-on-one space to discuss goals, ask questions and review options tailored to your facial anatomy—whether you’re seeking subtle definition, improved symmetry or a more balanced side profile. We focus on clear guidance, informed consent and natural-looking refinement.

Ready to get started?

Book online or contact our clinic to schedule your consultation.