A tear trough is an anatomical groove that sits between the eyelid and cheekbone, its deformity creates a hollow space which will lead to a common problem known to us as the dark circle. Dark circles can be caused by several factors, for instance, lack of sleep, the natural ageing process, excessive pigments deposition or allergic condition like hay fever. This hollow space with a dark circle can be aesthetically displeasing as it makes a person look tired all the time. Hence, people are seeking various ways to rejuvenate themselves by correcting this anatomical defect, and the hot topic nowadays is using Hyaluronic acid-based fillers such as Restylane for tear troughs treatments.
Restylane is approved by the FDA since 2003 for the use of lip and cheek fillers, however, Restylane has gained its popularity as tear trough fillers even though this use has not been approved by the FDA. It can only be used on individuals who are above 21 years old. This hyaluronic acid-based product is able to fill in the defect and enhance the volume under your skin, subsequently attracting more water to be retained at the area, making your tear troughs look full and appear to be more energetic. Generally, the procedure is safe and takes not more than half an hour, you can go straight back to work or your activities right after the procedure. The trained aesthetician or physician will inject Restylane under defective part of your skin by an ultrafine needle which causes only minimal pain. There may be cases where local anaesthesia is needed if the patients cannot tolerate the pain.
The effect of Restylane to exhibit a plump and glowing tear trough will show within one week. You are recommended to limit your sun exposure to prevent swelling and bruising after the procedure. Mind in that, this is not one treatment session but a series of treatment sessions to maintain the desired outcome as Restylane can only last between 6 to 18 months depending on the type of Restylane you received. Not everyone can undergo this treatment, individuals who are allergic to the bacterial protein, immunocompromised, pregnant, breastfeeding and taking blood thinners are not allowed for the treatment as it will impose more risks than benefits. Hence, a good aesthetician or physician will first evaluate your clinical status before commencing any sort of treatment on you.
Like any other procedures, Restylane injection has side effects as well. The patient may have bruising or bleeding at the injection site, eventually leading to infection. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance, but it still may cause an allergic reaction on a certain individual though it is rare. If the operator is not experienced or professional, the defect in the tear troughs may not be filled smoothly, so some patients may find irregularities in the skin. These side effects usually will resolve within a week, if the issues persist, patients are recommended to revisit to the clinic for reevaluation.
Restylane treatment for tear troughs is widely accepted to date although FDA has not approved its use on the tear troughs treatment. So, it is very important that you find the most reliable clinics to have your filling done so that your journey for beauty will be smooth sailing.