What is tear trough (under-eye) filler?
The tear trough is the groove that runs from the inner corner of the eye along the top of the cheek. As we age, or simply through genetics, this area can hollow and cast a shadow that reads as tiredness or dark circles. Tear trough filler uses hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring sugar molecule that holds water and adds soft volume. Placed precisely, a small amount of gel can lift the hollow, reduce shadowing and give a smoother transition between the lower eyelid and cheek. Because hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body, it is gradually broken down over time and, in most cases, can be dissolved if needed.
Under-eye filler may help with a hollow or sunken look beneath the eyes, shadowing that creates the appearance of dark circles, a tired appearance despite adequate rest, and volume lost through natural ageing. It is not a treatment for pigmentation (true colour-based dark circles), significant eye bags or excess skin. It is one type of dermal filler, and Dr Natalia will say so honestly if another approach would suit you better.
Who is it suitable for?
Tear trough filler suits some people very well and is unsuitable for others. Good candidates typically have a genuine hollow or groove with good skin quality and no significant fluid retention or eye bags. It may not be suitable if you have prominent eye bags or puffiness, a tendency to fluid retention, very thin or lax lower-eyelid skin, pigment-based dark circles, certain medical conditions, or an active infection near the area. This is exactly why a proper medical assessment matters: Dr Natalia examines your under-eye anatomy carefully and will only recommend treatment if she believes it is appropriate and safe for you.
Why choose a doctor-led clinic in Leicester?
- Treated by a GMC-registered doctor. Dr Natalia Hancock personally carries out every consultation and treatment. You will not be passed to anyone else.
- Medical assessment first. As a doctor, Dr Natalia assesses your health, medical history and facial anatomy before recommending anything.
- Complication awareness. In the rare event of a complication, being treated by a doctor means clinical experience is on hand. Hyaluronic acid filler can also be dissolved if needed.
- Honest, measured advice. If tear trough filler is not right for you, we will say so. We would rather you had the right treatment, or none, than the wrong one.
- Registered and accountable. Dr Natalia Clinic operates to professional medical standards.
Your consultation and the treatment
Every journey always begins with a consultation to confirm your suitability. This is where we discuss your goals, review your medical history, examine the under-eye and cheek area, and create a personalised treatment plan with Dr Natalia. There is no obligation to proceed.
On the day, a topical numbing cream is usually applied first, and many hyaluronic acid fillers also contain a local anaesthetic to help with comfort. Dr Natalia places small, measured amounts of filler using a fine needle or cannula. You can usually see an initial change straight away, though some swelling is normal at first, and your final result becomes clearer once any swelling has settled, usually within about two weeks.
Results and how long they last
How long does tear trough filler last? Longer than most people expect. Results are often quoted at 6 to 18 months, but that is when the visible effect softens, not when the filler is gone. Recent MRI studies show hyaluronic acid filler can remain in the tissues for several years. This is exactly why Dr Natalia works conservatively: the least product necessary, built gradually, and reviewed over time rather than assuming previous filler has fully dissolved.
Because the visible effect softens over time, top-up treatments can be arranged to maintain your look if you wish. We will never pressure you into a maintenance schedule; it is entirely your choice. No two people respond identically, and individual results cannot be guaranteed.
Aftercare
Good aftercare helps you heal comfortably. Any initial swelling or tenderness is common and settles within a few days. General guidance includes:
- Avoid touching, pressing or massaging the under-eye area for the first 24 hours, unless Dr Natalia advises otherwise.
- Avoid strenuous exercise, heat and alcohol for the first 24 to 48 hours.
- Avoid heat treatments such as sauna, steam, hot showers and tanning for 2 weeks.
- Avoid facials or facial waxing treatments and massages for 2 weeks.
- Avoid radiofrequency, IPL, laser or other heat-based treatments near the treated area for 2 weeks.
You will be given full personalised aftercare advice at your appointment. If anything concerns you afterwards, contact the clinic.
Safety and dissolving
Tear trough filler is a medical procedure and, like any treatment, carries some risks. Common, temporary side effects include swelling, tenderness, redness and bruising. Less common risks will be explained to you honestly during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.
One reassuring feature of hyaluronic acid filler is that it can, in most cases, be dissolved using an enzyme (hyaluronidase) if you are unhappy with the result or in the rare event of a complication. This reversibility is one reason hyaluronic acid is so widely used, and a key reason to be treated by a doctor who understands how to manage both the filler and, if ever needed, its reversal. Tear trough filler is not suitable for everyone. It is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, if you have certain medical conditions, or if you have an active infection near the treatment area. Suitability is always confirmed individually at consultation.
Tear trough filler pricing in Leicester
Your exact cost depends on your individual treatment plan, which is agreed with Dr Natalia at your consultation before anything goes ahead, so there are no surprises. We believe in transparent pricing and honest advice about what you do and do not need. Prices are a guide and are confirmed at consultation.
Areas we serve
Dr Natalia Clinic is based in Great Glen, just south of Leicester, and welcomes clients from across Leicestershire, including Great Glen, Leicester, Market Harborough, Oadby and Wigston. Find us at The Annex, 27 Heron Close, Great Glen, Leicester, LE8 9DZ, with easy access and parking.