Tear troughs are delicate areas located under the eyespecifically in the groove in between the lower eyelid and the cheeks. Also known as the nasojugal groove, this dark and thin skin layer is a product of fatigue, lack of sleep, aging, or genetics. As the individual continues to age, there is a natural decline of fatty tissue content in this area and there is shrinkage of the bone and the loss of the cheek fat pad’s elasticity. Unfortunately, this condition may appear in people as young as 20 in some cases. Other than revealing dark circles, tear troughs may appear puffy. The bulge appears due to the pseudo-herniation of the infraorbital fat pads.
Prominently visible tear troughs can be difficult to reduce or eliminate entirely using topical over-the-counter skincare products and natural remedies alone. Fortunately, there is a way these stubborn and unsightly tear troughs can be corrected without undergoing any surgery. Hyaluronic acid-based cosmetic fillers, the first of which were introduced by Restylane, offers quick, convenient, dramatic improvements to this area.
Why Restylane?
Restylane is a brand of aesthetic cosmetic fillers that restores marked imperfections in the skin with sterile, nonpyrogenic, and water-attracting hyaluronic acid (HA). This particular substance has become an important topic in the beauty industry for the past decade because of its beneficial properties and high patient tolerability. The loss of this naturally-occurring sugar molecule from the dermal layer’s extracellular matrix causes the low production of collagen, which maintain the elasticity of the skin. Thus, replacing the content helps to revive the workings of the connective tissue in the dermal layer.
Restylane’s particular hyaluronic acid content is sourced via biofermentation and is processed to create sturdy, long-lasting cross-linked gel. It is cohesive enough to be injected via thin needles or cannula and firm enough to fix itself to the targeted area. With an adequate amount, it adds a little volume to the sunken skin and does not provoke any pyrogenic reactions. Most importantly, this implant is reversible by using hyaluronidase.
How does it work?
Since the tear trough’s skin is thin and fragile, many clinicians prefer to use a cannula, so as to prevent causing skin trauma or bruising. Slowly inject the appropriate dose of Restylane injectable gel into the middle layer of the dermis. If it is not located superficially to the skin, there will be less chances of the Tyndall effect. It is also recommended to apply any topical anesthetic cream, such as lidocaine, to ease the injection sensation. Restylane also has lower hydrophilic and low-viscosity properties compared to other dermal fillers, which helps to maintain the cohesiveness of the gel and ensure the low risk of moisture attraction and swelling. That being said, the Restylane filler used will depend on your needs. Often, doctors recommend Restylane 1ml, Restylane Vital Light, or Restylane SubQ.
The expected outcome of the treatment is a more radiant and fresher look with a less conspicuous tear trough. The improvements may include softer skin, less wrinkles and fine lines, and a brighter complexion. Restylane products can last up to one year, which is cost effective, as it does not require frequent trips to the clinic.
What to expect with the treatment?
As the whole procedure only consists of an intradermal injection, it can be easily completed within 30 to 45 minutes. The patient can return immediately to their daily life with minimal complications. It is advisable to avoid wearing makeup and performing any strenuous exercises within the first 24 hours so to let the implant settle down. Some patients may experience mild to moderate swelling, pain, redness, or tenderness at the area of injection; however, these potential side effects usually subside within one or two weeks. To reduce any potential swelling, use an ice pack on the treated area if necessary.
It is not surprising as to why Restylane cosmetic fillers have become a top nonsurgical treatment around the world. Indeed, the quick correction of dark tear troughs is an attractive and impressive therapy that can maintain a youthful look for an individual.
