The under-eye area — clinically called the tear trough — is one of the first places to show signs of ageing and fatigue. Several factors contribute to those dark shadows and hollow grooves:
The result? You look tired even when you are not. Concealer can mask it temporarily, but it cannot replace lost volume or address the structural cause.
Tear trough filler uses a very soft, low-viscosity hyaluronic acid product placed carefully into the depression beneath the eye. The filler restores lost volume, lifting the skin away from the underlying dark vasculature and smoothing the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek.
The goal is not to "fill" in the traditional sense — it is to replace what has been lost. A well-treated tear trough looks natural because the filler simply restores the contour that was there before volume loss occurred.
Critical distinction: Not all dark circles are caused by volume loss. If your dark circles are primarily due to pigmentation (melanin deposits in the skin), filler alone will not resolve the issue. A thorough consultation will determine the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.
The tear trough is widely regarded as one of the most technically demanding injection sites in cosmetic medicine. There are several reasons for this:
This is why we approach tear trough treatment conservatively at Mirror Mirror Aesthetics. Cameron Holland, RN, assesses each client individually, starts with the minimum effective volume, and schedules a follow-up to add more if needed. The philosophy is simple: underfill and refine, rather than overfill and correct.
Our standard: If, during your consultation, we determine that filler is not the right approach for your under-eye concerns, we will tell you — and recommend an alternative. We would rather give you the right advice than perform a treatment that will not deliver the result you want.
Cause analysis — volume, pigment, or skin quality
Topical anaesthetic for 20 minutes
Micro-doses via cannula for precision and safety
2-week follow-up to assess and refine
Most experienced injectors use a cannula technique for tear trough filler rather than a needle. A cannula enters through a single point (typically near the cheekbone) and glides under the skin to deposit filler precisely where needed. This approach dramatically reduces bruising risk and gives the injector better control over placement.
The entire injection process takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes. The filler is placed in micro-droplets — tiny amounts layered carefully to build a smooth, even correction. You can see results immediately, though mild swelling will be present for the first few days.
The tear trough requires very small volumes — this is a precision treatment, not a volume treatment.
| Severity | Volume (Both Eyes) | Sessions |
|---|---|---|
| Mild hollowing | 0.3–0.5ml | 1 session, review at 2 weeks |
| Moderate hollowing | 0.5–0.8ml | 1–2 sessions |
| Significant volume loss | 0.8–1ml | 2 sessions (staged) |
The total volume is split between both eyes — so 0.5ml total means approximately 0.25ml per side. Staging the treatment over two sessions (initial placement, then a 2-week top-up) is the safest and most precise approach for this delicate area.
Tear trough filler carries specific risks that differ from other filler areas. Understanding these helps you make an informed decision.
This is the most common complication specific to tear trough filler. It occurs when filler is placed too superficially beneath the thin under-eye skin, creating a bluish or greyish discolouration. It is not dangerous, but it is aesthetically undesirable. The fix: dissolving the filler with hyaluronidase and, if appropriate, retreating at a deeper plane.
Overfilling or placing filler in the wrong plane can create persistent puffiness — the opposite of the desired effect. This is why conservative, staged treatment is essential. Some clients are also prone to fluid retention in this area, which can worsen with HA filler (hyaluronic acid attracts water).
As with all injectable treatments, there is a rare but serious risk of vascular occlusion — filler inadvertently blocking a blood vessel. In the periorbital area, this can affect vision. An experienced injector mitigates this risk through cannula use, aspiration technique, and thorough anatomical knowledge.
Safety first: The tear trough is not a treatment to choose based on price. The skill of your injector is the single most important factor in achieving a good outcome and avoiding complications. Always choose a qualified, experienced practitioner.
Filler is not the only option for under-eye rejuvenation. Depending on your specific concern, one of these alternatives may be more appropriate — or may complement filler treatment.
| Treatment | Best For | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Rejuran (PDRN/PN) | Fine lines, crepey texture, skin quality | Polynucleotides stimulate skin repair and thickening from within |
| Skin boosters | Hydration, fine lines, dullness | Micro-injections of HA hydrate and improve skin texture |
| PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) | Dark circles from thin skin, general rejuvenation | Your own growth factors stimulate collagen and skin renewal |
| Tear trough filler | Hollows, shadows, volume loss | HA filler restores volume in the tear trough depression |
Combination approach: Many clients achieve the best result by combining treatments. For example, Rejuran to improve skin quality and thickness, followed by a small amount of tear trough filler to address any remaining volume loss. This combination treats both the skin and the structure.
Tear trough filler delivers immediate, visible improvement — though the final result takes 2 weeks to settle as swelling resolves.
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Immediately | Visible reduction in hollowing and shadows |
| Days 1–3 | Mild swelling, possible light bruising |
| Week 1 | Swelling settles, early result visible |
| Week 2 | Final result — follow-up and potential refinement |
| 9–18 months | Gradual natural breakdown of filler |
The under-eye area has very little movement, which means filler tends to last longer here than in more mobile areas like the lips. Many clients find their tear trough filler lasts 12 months or more before a maintenance session is needed.
Tear trough filler is a precision treatment that reflects the expertise required and the specialised products used.
| Treatment | Volume | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Mild correction | 0.3–0.5ml | $450–$550 |
| Moderate correction | 0.5–0.8ml | $550–$650 |
| Full correction | 0.8–1ml | $650–$750 |
| Rejuran (alternative/complement) | 1 session | $450–$600 |
The price includes the initial treatment and a 2-week follow-up assessment. If additional filler is needed at the follow-up, this is quoted separately. We believe in transparent, upfront pricing with no pressure to commit to more than you need.
The under-eye area requires gentle aftercare to ensure the best possible result. For the first 48 hours:
Bruising is more common with tear trough treatment than with other filler areas, simply because the skin is so thin. If it occurs, it typically resolves within 7–10 days. Arnica cream and avoiding blood thinners before treatment can help minimise this risk.
Related reading: For a broader look at skin rejuvenation options, explore our guides to Rejuran therapy, skin boosters, and facial rejuvenation.
Typically nine to twelve months, sometimes longer. The under-eye area has relatively little movement, which means filler tends to last well in this region.
Some bruising is possible given the delicate nature of the area. Using a cannula technique reduces this risk significantly. We recommend avoiding blood-thinning medications and alcohol for twenty-four hours beforehand.
If bags (puffiness) are the primary concern rather than hollowing, filler can sometimes accentuate them. This is why a thorough assessment is essential — Millie will only recommend tear trough filler if she's confident it will improve your appearance.
Book a complimentary consultation with our registered nurse. We\u2019ll discuss your goals and create a personalised treatment plan — no obligation.