Learn how under eye filler treats hollows and dark circles. Safe, physician-led care at Spectrum Skin Clinic in Irvine, CA. See real before and after results.
Understanding Under Eye Filler: What Is It and How Does It Work?
Under eye filler—also called tear trough filler—is a non-surgical, injectable treatment designed to correct the hollowing, dark circles, and volume loss under the eyes. These changes are often due to a combination of age-related fat pad loss, skin thinning, genetics, and lifestyle factors such as poor sleep, stress, or weight fluctuations.
At Spectrum Skin Clinic in Irvine, CA, we use hyaluronic acid (HA)-based dermal fillers including Restylane Eyelight, Restylane-L, and Belotero Balance, as well as a physician-developed PRFM + HA blend for patients who need a regenerative boost. These products are chosen for their smooth texture, safety profile, and ability to integrate naturally into delicate under-eye tissue.
The treatment is performed with precision and, in complex cases, under ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement and minimize risk—an approach that distinguishes physician-led care from more commercial injector chains.
Understanding Under Eye Filler: What Is It and How Does It Work?
Under eye filler—also called tear trough filler—is a non-surgical, injectable treatment designed to correct the hollowing, dark circles, and volume loss under the eyes. These changes are often due to a combination of age-related fat pad loss, skin thinning, genetics, and lifestyle factors such as poor sleep, stress, or weight fluctuations.
At Spectrum Skin Clinic in Irvine, CA, we use hyaluronic acid (HA)-based dermal fillers including Restylane Eyelight, Restylane-L, and Belotero Balance, as well as a physician-developed PRFM + HA blend for patients who need a regenerative boost. These products are chosen for their smooth texture, safety profile, and ability to integrate naturally into delicate under-eye tissue.
The treatment is performed with precision and, in complex cases, under ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement and minimize risk—an approach that distinguishes physician-led care from more commercial injector chains.
Who Is a Candidate for Under Eye Filler?
Not all patients with dark circles are candidates for under eye filler. The best candidates are those with:
- Mild to moderate volume loss or hollowing
- Tear trough depression without excessive skin laxity
- Shadowing from facial structure, not pigmentation
- Minimal under-eye fat pad protrusion
- Overall good skin quality
Those with heavy puffiness, prominent fat pads, or melanin-based dark circles may be better served by skin boosters, laser treatments, or surgery. At Spectrum Skin Clinic, Dr. Munib performs a detailed exam to determine if filler is appropriate—or if another option will yield better, longer-lasting results.
Who Is a Candidate for Under Eye Filler?
Not all patients with dark circles are candidates for under eye filler. The best candidates are those with:
- Mild to moderate volume loss or hollowing
- Tear trough depression without excessive skin laxity
- Shadowing from facial structure, not pigmentation
- Minimal under-eye fat pad protrusion
- Overall good skin quality
Those with heavy puffiness, prominent fat pads, or melanin-based dark circles may be better served by skin boosters, laser treatments, or surgery. At Spectrum Skin Clinic, Dr. Munib performs a detailed exam to determine if filler is appropriate—or if another option will yield better, longer-lasting results.
What Conditions Can Under Eye Filler Treat?
Under eye filler is effective for:
- Tear trough hollows (depressions beneath the eyes)
- Under-eye shadows due to bone structure
- Sunken eyes post-weight loss or due to age
- Volume imbalance between the cheeks and orbital rim
- Fat pad atrophy from medications or GLP-1s (e.g., Ozempic)
This treatment is not a one-size-fits-all fix for all dark circles. True hyperpigmentation—especially in skin types IV–VI—often requires targeted therapies such as tranexamic acid, Rejuran, or Nordlys IPL.
What Conditions Can Under Eye Filler Treat?
Under eye filler is effective for:
- Tear trough hollows (depressions beneath the eyes)
- Under-eye shadows due to bone structure
- Sunken eyes post-weight loss or due to age
- Volume imbalance between the cheeks and orbital rim
- Fat pad atrophy from medications or GLP-1s (e.g., Ozempic)
This treatment is not a one-size-fits-all fix for all dark circles. True hyperpigmentation—especially in skin types IV–VI—often requires targeted therapies such as tranexamic acid, Rejuran, or Nordlys IPL.
Which Filler Products Are Best for Under Eye Use?
Under eye filler selection is critical to both safety and aesthetic outcomes. The most commonly used and preferred options at our clinic include:
- Restylane Eyelight – Specifically formulated for the tear trough with low water attraction and high cohesivity. Minimal swelling.
- Belotero Balance – Excellent for patients with thin, translucent skin. Integrates smoothly and reduces risk of the Tyndall effect.
- Restylane-L – Suitable for deeper hollows or thicker skin types.
- PRFM + HA Blend – Combines the regenerative power of platelet-rich fibrin matrix with volume correction. Ideal for patients post-weight loss or those concerned about long-term tissue health.
High G-prime fillers or those designed for structure (e.g., cheek or chin) should never be used in the tear trough due to increased risk of lumpiness, migration, and edema.
Which Filler Products Are Best for Under Eye Use?
Under eye filler selection is critical to both safety and aesthetic outcomes. The most commonly used and preferred options at our clinic include:
- Restylane Eyelight – Specifically formulated for the tear trough with low water attraction and high cohesivity. Minimal swelling.
- Belotero Balance – Excellent for patients with thin, translucent skin. Integrates smoothly and reduces risk of the Tyndall effect.
- Restylane-L – Suitable for deeper hollows or thicker skin types.
- PRFM + HA Blend – Combines the regenerative power of platelet-rich fibrin matrix with volume correction. Ideal for patients post-weight loss or those concerned about long-term tissue health.
High G-prime fillers or those designed for structure (e.g., cheek or chin) should never be used in the tear trough due to increased risk of lumpiness, migration, and edema.
What to Expect During the Procedure
What to Expect During the Procedure
The treatment process at Spectrum Skin Clinic includes:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Facial anatomy, vascular mapping, and skin thickness are assessed by Dr. Munib.
- Product Selection: Based on goals, filler type, and safety considerations.
- Ultrasound Mapping (if indicated): Used in revision or complex cases to visualize vessels and prior filler.
- Cannula Injection Technique: A blunt-tip cannula is used to reduce bruising, avoid vessels, and allow smooth placement.
- Real-Time Adjustment: Small volumes (often less than 0.5 mL per side) are placed slowly and conservatively.
The entire process typically takes 30–45 minutes.
What to Expect During the Procedure
What to Expect During the Procedure
The treatment process at Spectrum Skin Clinic includes:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: Facial anatomy, vascular mapping, and skin thickness are assessed by Dr. Munib.
- Product Selection: Based on goals, filler type, and safety considerations.
- Ultrasound Mapping (if indicated): Used in revision or complex cases to visualize vessels and prior filler.
- Cannula Injection Technique: A blunt-tip cannula is used to reduce bruising, avoid vessels, and allow smooth placement.
- Real-Time Adjustment: Small volumes (often less than 0.5 mL per side) are placed slowly and conservatively.
The entire process typically takes 30–45 minutes.
Downtime, Side Effects, and Recovery
Recovery is generally minimal. Most patients return to normal activities the same or next day.
Common, temporary side effects include:
- Swelling (typically 24–72 hours)
- Bruising
- Asymmetry (usually resolves as swelling subsides)
- Mild tenderness
Less common risks:
- Tyndall effect (bluish tint from superficial filler)
- Filler migration
- Chronic swelling or lymphatic backup
- Vascular occlusion (rare but serious; requires immediate reversal)
Dr. Munib is experienced in ultrasound-guided correction and hyaluronidase dissolving if complications arise or prior filler needs revision.
Downtime, Side Effects, and Recovery
Recovery is generally minimal. Most patients return to normal activities the same or next day.
Common, temporary side effects include:
- Swelling (typically 24–72 hours)
- Bruising
- Asymmetry (usually resolves as swelling subsides)
- Mild tenderness
Less common risks:
- Tyndall effect (bluish tint from superficial filler)
- Filler migration
- Chronic swelling or lymphatic backup
- Vascular occlusion (rare but serious; requires immediate reversal)
Dr. Munib is experienced in ultrasound-guided correction and hyaluronidase dissolving if complications arise or prior filler needs revision.
How Long Do Results Last?
- Duration: Typically 9–12 months, but some patients retain results for up to 18 months.
- Product Dependent: Softer fillers degrade faster; thicker HA blends may last longer.
- Patient Factors: High metabolism, frequent exercise, and facial movement may shorten duration.
For best outcomes, patients should follow maintenance schedules and consider combining with skin-quality treatmentslike PRFM, exosomes, or laser resurfacing.
How Long Do Results Last?
- Duration: Typically 9–12 months, but some patients retain results for up to 18 months.
- Product Dependent: Softer fillers degrade faster; thicker HA blends may last longer.
- Patient Factors: High metabolism, frequent exercise, and facial movement may shorten duration.
For best outcomes, patients should follow maintenance schedules and consider combining with skin-quality treatmentslike PRFM, exosomes, or laser resurfacing.
How Does Under Eye Filler Compare to Other Options?
| Treatment | Purpose | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fractional CO2 Laser | Volume loss, shadowing | Immediate correction, long-lasting | Not ideal for pigment or loose skin |
| RF Microneedling | Skin tightening | Boosts collagen, reduces laxity | Requires multiple sessions |
| Rejuran / Polynucleotides | Skin quality | Improves dermal density and tone | No volume restoration |
| PRFM | Mild hollowing, regeneration | Natural and regenerative | Slower onset, limited volume lift |
| Blepharoplasty (surgery) | Fat pad removal or repositioning | Long-term correction | nvasive, downtime required |
Safety for Skin of Color (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Patients with melanin-rich skin must be evaluated with extra care. HA fillers are safe in darker skin types, but misplacement or excessive volume can result in:
- Prolonged swelling
- Hyperpigmentation
- Puffiness due to poor lymphatic drainage
At Spectrum Skin Clinic, we use ultrasound to avoid vessel compression and custom product selection to minimize risk. We also combine under eye filler with Nordlys IPL, SkinVive, or tranexamic acid protocols when hyperpigmentation is the primary concern.
Safety for Skin of Color (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Patients with melanin-rich skin must be evaluated with extra care. HA fillers are safe in darker skin types, but misplacement or excessive volume can result in:
- Prolonged swelling
- Hyperpigmentation
- Puffiness due to poor lymphatic drainage
At Spectrum Skin Clinic, we use ultrasound to avoid vessel compression and custom product selection to minimize risk. We also combine under eye filler with Nordlys IPL, SkinVive, or tranexamic acid protocols when hyperpigmentation is the primary concern.
Under Eye Filler vs “Ozempic Face”
With the rise in GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and ZepBound, many patients are experiencing rapid facial volume loss—including in the under eye area. Filler is often the first-line option for structural hollowing, but at Spectrum Skin Clinic, we go further.
- PRFM or Sculptra can support long-term collagen production
- Cheek filler may be layered strategically to support the orbital rim
- Skin boosters improve elasticity in patients with significant weight fluctuation
We take a comprehensive approach to under eye rejuvenation in post-weight loss patients, not just a “spot treat” mentality.
Under Eye Filler vs “Ozempic Face”
With the rise in GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and ZepBound, many patients are experiencing rapid facial volume loss—including in the under eye area. Filler is often the first-line option for structural hollowing, but at Spectrum Skin Clinic, we go further.
- PRFM or Sculptra can support long-term collagen production
- Cheek filler may be layered strategically to support the orbital rim
- Skin boosters improve elasticity in patients with significant weight fluctuation
We take a comprehensive approach to under eye rejuvenation in post-weight loss patients, not just a “spot treat” mentality.
Real Results: Before and After Cases
Patients often see a dramatic improvement in:
- Under eye hollows
- Fatigue-related facial appearance
- Facial symmetry
- Dark circle reduction
Photos taken at 1-week and 1-month intervals show natural, refreshed outcomes with minimal swelling. In revision cases, Dr. Munib uses HiLunix to dissolve poorly placed filler prior to retreatment, ensuring clarity and precision.
Real Results: Before and After Cases
Patients often see a dramatic improvement in:
- Under eye hollows
- Fatigue-related facial appearance
- Facial symmetry
- Dark circle reduction
Photos taken at 1-week and 1-month intervals show natural, refreshed outcomes with minimal swelling. In revision cases, Dr. Munib uses HiLunix to dissolve poorly placed filler prior to retreatment, ensuring clarity and precision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does under eye filler cost?
Pricing typically ranges from $650–$900 depending on the product used and whether ultrasound is required.
Is under eye filler painful?
Discomfort is minimal. We use numbing cream and cannula techniques to keep the procedure tolerable.
How long does swelling last?
Most swelling resolves within 48–72 hours. Minor residual puffiness may last a week.
Can filler make my under eyes look worse?
Yes—if done improperly. Overfilling or superficial placement can lead to puffiness, migration, or a bluish hue. That’s why physician-led care with conservative dosing is essential.
What if I don’t like the result?
Hyaluronic acid fillers can be reversed with hyaluronidase. At Spectrum Skin Clinic, we use HiLunix under ultrasound to dissolve filler with precision.
How often will I need touch-ups?
Most patients return once per year for maintenance. Some may benefit from staggered touch-ups every 9–12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does under eye filler cost?
Pricing typically ranges from $650–$900 depending on the product used and whether ultrasound is required.
Is under eye filler painful?
Discomfort is minimal. We use numbing cream and cannula techniques to keep the procedure tolerable.
How long does swelling last?
Most swelling resolves within 48–72 hours. Minor residual puffiness may last a week.
Can filler make my under eyes look worse?
Yes—if done improperly. Overfilling or superficial placement can lead to puffiness, migration, or a bluish hue. That’s why physician-led care with conservative dosing is essential.
What if I don’t like the result?
Hyaluronic acid fillers can be reversed with hyaluronidase. At Spectrum Skin Clinic, we use HiLunix under ultrasound to dissolve filler with precision.
How often will I need touch-ups?
Most patients return once per year for maintenance. Some may benefit from staggered touch-ups every 9–12 months.
Why Choose Spectrum Skin Clinic in Irvine, CA?
Under eye filler requires a level of expertise that goes beyond routine aesthetic care. At Spectrum Skin Clinic:
- All treatments are performed by Dr. Sabeen Munib, a physician trained in ultrasound-guided injections
- We select fillers that prioritize natural integration and safety
- We treat complex anatomy, including revision and post-weight-loss cases
- Our approach is always customized, not commoditize
We prioritize long-term outcomes and patient safety, especially for sensitive areas like the under eyes.
Why Choose Spectrum Skin Clinic in Irvine, CA?
Under eye filler requires a level of expertise that goes beyond routine aesthetic care. At Spectrum Skin Clinic:
- All treatments are performed by Dr. Sabeen Munib, a physician trained in ultrasound-guided injections
- We select fillers that prioritize natural integration and safety
- We treat complex anatomy, including revision and post-weight-loss cases
- Our approach is always customized, not commoditize
We prioritize long-term outcomes and patient safety, especially for sensitive areas like the under eyes.
Schedule Your Consultation
f you’re considering under eye filler in Irvine or Orange County, trust Spectrum Skin Clinic for physician-led expertise, advanced safety techniques, and customized care. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn if under eye filler is the right approach for your goals.
Schedule Your Consultation
f you’re considering under eye filler in Irvine or Orange County, trust Spectrum Skin Clinic for physician-led expertise, advanced safety techniques, and customized care. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn if under eye filler is the right approach for your goals.
