How is tear trough hollows treated?

A tear trough is a groove between the lower eyelid and cheek. Shadowing can make the area look darker or tired, while thin skin, under-eye bags or facial volume loss may add to the appearance. These features do not all need the same treatment. An assessment considers the groove, surrounding cheek support, skin laxity, pigmentation and swelling. Read more about [Tear Trough Hollows](/conditions/tear-trough-hollows/) and [Dark Circles](/symptoms/dark-circles/).

For selected people, [Under-Eye Filler](/treatments/injectables/tear-trough-filler/) can soften a hollow by restoring volume beneath the skin. It requires precise technique because the under-eye area is delicate, and swelling or unevenness can occur. [Eyelid Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/blepharoplasty/) may be considered when excess skin or prominent bags are major contributors. [Fat Transfer](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/fat-grafting/) uses fat from another body area to add volume. A clinician should first check whether swelling, pigmentation or a medical eye problem is being mistaken for a hollow.

Arrange an assessment if the change is new, one-sided, rapidly worsening, or accompanied by pain, redness, vision changes, marked swelling or discharge. After a procedure, seek urgent help for severe pain, pale or mottled skin, sudden visual symptoms, or rapidly increasing swelling. These symptoms need prompt clinical review rather than more cosmetic treatment.

Ask what is creating the shadow, which option addresses that cause, and what alternatives exist if filler is unsuitable. Discuss swelling, asymmetry, recovery, reversibility and how an eye specialist would be involved if needed.