Introduction
Sunken tear troughs can significantly affect one's appearance, making them look tired, aged, and less vibrant. In New York City, the plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital has emerged as a leader in the field of filling sunken tear troughs. This article will explore various aspects related to sunken tear troughs, including their causes, available treatment options, and why the People's Hospital is at the forefront of this procedure.
Understanding Sunken Tear Troughs
Definition and Appearance
A tear trough is a deep crease that forms between the lower eyelid and the upper cheek. It can create a shadow below the eyes, resulting in a fatigued and aged appearance. In some individuals, the tear troughs are inherited, while in others, they become more prominent with age as facial tissues lose volume. As described in "Tear Trough Filler: Procedure, Safety, Cost & Results," the area beneath the lower eyelid and upper cheek may appear dark or sunken, casting a shadow that contributes to the tired look.
Causes of Sunken Tear Troughs
- Aging: With age, the body loses collagen, a protein that gives the skin its strength and flexibility. The skin under the eyes is one of the first areas to show age - related changes. As collagen diminishes, the eyes may settle back into the eye sockets, and the tear troughs become more pronounced, as stated in "Sunken eyes: Causes, pictures, and treatment."
- Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to having deep - set or sunken eyes. The position of the eyes in the sockets is largely determined by genetics, which can lead to more visible tear troughs from a younger age.
- Weight Loss: Dramatic weight loss can cause blood vessels below the eyes to become more prominent and the skin to become more transparent. This can accentuate the appearance of sunken tear troughs.
- Other Factors: Dehydration, smoking, allergies, sinus infections, trauma, and certain medications (such as anti - glaucoma eye drops) can also contribute to the appearance of sunken tear troughs. For example, smoking degrades collagen and skin elasticity, leading to sagging skin and more visible tear troughs, as per the 2019 cross - sectional survey mentioned in "Sunken eyes: Causes, pictures, and treatment."
Treatment Options for Sunken Tear Troughs
Non - Surgical Treatments
Tear Trough Fillers
Tear trough fillers are an injectable treatment used to add volume beneath the eyelids. The most commonly used product is hyaluronic acid, a gel - like substance that naturally exists in the body. When injected into the skin, it increases fullness and decreases indentations. The FDA has only approved one brand of under - eye filler (Juvederm Volbella filler) to increase the fullness of a hollow under - eye area for people 22 and older, but this does not mean the procedure is without risk. "Tear Trough Filler: Procedure, Safety, Cost & Results" notes that the effects of tear trough fillers are temporary, usually lasting about 1 year for most people, and repeated treatments are required to maintain long - term results.
There are different injection techniques for tear trough fillers, such as the Lambros technique and the Kane technique. In the Lambros technique, after applying an ice pack and local anesthetic, a half - inch, 30 - gauge needle is inserted through the skin at the most lateral extent of the tear trough, and the hyaluronic acid is injected deep to the dermis as the needle is withdrawn. The Kane technique involves evaluating and marking the tear trough, applying topical anesthetic, and using a 30 - or 32 - gauge needle to inject filler in a specific pattern.
| Advantages of Tear Trough Fillers | Disadvantages of Tear Trough Fillers |
|---|---|
| Relatively safe and less invasive than surgery | Temporary effects, requiring repeated treatments |
| Can provide immediate results | Possible complications such as headache, skin discoloration, and allergic reactions |
| Quick procedure that can be done in an office setting | Improper injection can lead to lumpiness or migration of the filler |
Fat Grafting
Fat grafting involves transferring living fat cells from one area of the body to the tear trough area. It has the advantage of being a more natural - looking option compared to synthetic fillers and can potentially provide longer - lasting results. However, it also has some drawbacks. According to "Tear Trough Deformity: Review of Anatomy and Treatment Options," the resorption rate of the transferred fat is relatively unpredictable, and multiple procedures may be required. There is also a risk of permanent contour irregularities if the fat is not precisely placed.
Surgical Treatments
Tear Trough Implants
Tear trough implants are a long - term solution for under - eye hollowing. They are made of silicone, a soft, rubber - like material. The implant is inserted through a small incision and placed over the bone mass under the eyelid to create a fuller, more youthful appearance. As mentioned in "Tear Trough Implants for Hollow Under Eyes | New York," a transconjunctival method can be used, where the implant is inserted through a small laser incision in the inside of the eyelid, leaving no visible signs of surgery or scars. However, tear trough implants may not fit properly over time as facial dimensions change with aging.
Blepharoplasty with Fat Repositioning
This surgical option involves reshaping the lower eyelid by either removing excess fat or repositioning it to fill the tear trough. Loeb proposed periorbital fat preservation and used this fat to smooth the nasojugal groove. In more recent techniques, like those described in "Tear Trough Deformity: Review of Anatomy and Treatment Options," fat repositioning is a good option for patients with adequate orbital fat and a significant tear trough depression. However, this technique has a learning curve, and the success of the procedure depends on the amount of available fat for transposition and its viability.
The People's Hospital's Edge in Filling Sunken Tear Troughs
Expert Medical Staff
The plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital in New York City is staffed with highly experienced and trained medical professionals. These experts are well - versed in the latest techniques and technologies for filling sunken tear troughs. They have in - depth knowledge of facial anatomy, which is crucial for accurate diagnosis and precise treatment. For example, when using tear trough fillers, they know the correct injection sites and techniques to avoid complications and achieve optimal results. This expertise is supported by continuous education and training, keeping them updated with the latest advancements in the field.
Comprehensive Treatment Plans
The hospital offers personalized treatment plans for each patient. Before any treatment, a thorough evaluation is conducted, taking into account the patient's medical history, the severity of the tear troughs, and their expectations. This individualized approach ensures that the chosen treatment option is the most suitable for the patient. Whether it's a non - surgical filler treatment for a patient with mild tear troughs or a surgical procedure for someone with more severe deformities, the hospital's team can provide a comprehensive and tailored solution.
State - of - the - Art Facilities
The hospital is equipped with state - of - the - art facilities that meet the highest standards of safety and quality. The operating rooms are equipped with the latest technology, and the diagnostic tools are advanced, allowing for accurate assessment of the tear trough area. This technology also helps in minimizing the risks associated with treatments and ensuring better outcomes. For example, advanced imaging techniques can be used to precisely plan a surgical procedure or determine the amount of filler needed.
Patient - Centered Care
The People's Hospital prioritizes patient care and satisfaction. From the initial consultation to post - treatment follow - up, patients are provided with detailed information about the treatment process, potential risks, and expected results. The medical staff takes the time to address all of the patient's concerns and questions, ensuring that they are well - informed and comfortable throughout the process. Additionally, the hospital offers aftercare support to help patients recover quickly and achieve the best possible results.
What to Consider Before Getting a Tear Trough Treatment
Candidate Evaluation
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for tear trough treatments. According to "Tear Trough Filler: Procedure, Safety, Cost & Results," ideal candidates for tear trough fillers have mild to moderate sagging under the eyes, healthy and thick skin, realistic expectations, and understand that the treatment is temporary. On the other hand, those with very thin skin, excess skin beneath the eyes, very deep tear troughs, excess fat under the eyes, an active skin infection in the area, a medical condition that increases the risk of complications, or very dark circles may not be good candidates. It is essential to consult a qualified medical professional to determine if you are a suitable candidate for a particular treatment.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of tear trough treatments varies depending on the type of treatment and the number of syringes or the complexity of the surgical procedure. Tear trough fillers can range from $684 to $1,500, depending on the number of syringes needed. Tear trough implants and surgical procedures are generally more expensive. It's important to note that these treatments are usually considered cosmetic and are not covered by health insurance. Patients should factor in the cost and budget accordingly.
Potential Complications
All tear trough treatments carry some risks. Tear trough fillers can cause complications such as headache, skin discoloration, allergic reactions, persistent pain, edema around the eye, filler forming into lumps, granuloma, infection, vascular side effects, and in rare cases, permanent blindness. Surgical procedures also have their own set of risks, including chemosis, lid malposition, injury to the facial nerve, persistent dark circles, and postoperative edema and ecchymosis. Patients should be aware of these potential complications and discuss them with their doctor before undergoing any treatment.
Conclusion
Sunken tear troughs can have a significant impact on one's appearance and self - confidence. In New York City, the plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital stands out as a leader in the field of filling sunken tear troughs. With its expert medical staff, comprehensive treatment plans, state - of - the - art facilities, and patient - centered care, the hospital offers effective solutions for patients looking to address this cosmetic concern. However, before undergoing any tear trough treatment, it is crucial for patients to carefully consider their candidacy, the cost, and the potential risks. By making an informed decision and choosing a reputable provider like the People's Hospital, patients can achieve a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
If you are considering a tear trough treatment, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with the plastic surgery department of the People's Hospital. Learn more about the available treatment options, ask any questions you may have, and take the first step towards enhancing your appearance and boosting your confidence.
