Tear Trough Filler Aftercare
Your complete recovery guide from the Luxe Lips clinical team
Educational Resource — This page provides general aftercare guidance for patients who have received tear trough filler treatment. It does not constitute medical advice. If you have any concerns about your recovery, contact the Luxe Lips clinic directly.
Tear trough filler, also known as under-eye filler, is used to address hollowing and dark shadowing beneath the eyes, which can contribute to a tired appearance. It is also considered as one of the most delicate areas for filler treatment.
The under-eye skin is very thin and the area can bruise or swell more easily than some other treatment areas, which means recovery may be more noticeable.
This guide explains common recovery experiences such as under-eye puffiness, what to watch for (including the Tyndall effect), and how to care for the area after treatment.
Before your tear trough filler appointment
AVOID BLOOD-THINNING SUPPLEMENTS AND MEDICATIONS
Stop taking fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, and aspirin-based products at least one week before your appointment. These increase the likelihood and severity of bruising. If you take prescription blood thinners, do not stop them without consulting your prescribing doctor — but do let your injector know.
NO ALCOHOL FOR 48 HOURS BEFORE TREATMENT
Alcohol thins the blood and dilates blood vessels. Drinking alcohol in the days before treatment may increase the likelihood of bruising. This applies to all types of alcohol, including wine and beer.
INFORM YOUR PRACTITIONER OF ALL MEDICATIONS
Disclose every medication, supplement, and herbal remedy you are currently taking. Some may interact with the procedure or with the anaesthetic used in the filler. This includes over-the-counter products.
CONSIDER STARTING ARNICA
If your practitioner recommends it, begin taking arnica tablets two to three days before your appointment and continue for the first few days after treatment. Arnica is sometimes used with the aim of supporting recovery and bruising resolution. It is available from most pharmacies without a prescription.
BE PREPARED FOR VISIBLE RECOVERY
Unlike some filler treatments where swelling and bruising can be concealed with makeup or clothing, tear trough recovery is visible. The under-eye area may swell, and bruising is relatively common. Plan your schedule accordingly. Many patients choose to have this treatment before a quieter social period.
What to expect immediately after treatment
Swelling beneath the eyes is common after treatment and can sometimes be noticeable. During the first 24 to 48 hours, the area may appear quite puffy as swelling develops. This can occur as part of the normal early recovery process. The thin under-eye tissue can respond with noticeable swelling even when a small amount of filler is used.
Bruising can occur because the skin in this area is thin and contains many small blood vessels. Bruises may appear dark and can extend across the under-eye region. Bruising may take around one to two weeks to fade, although recovery times vary.
The under-eye area may appear lumpy or uneven initially. This is usually related to swelling during early recovery. The thin skin in this area can make even minor swelling more visible.
Tenderness beneath the eyes can occur after treatment. The area may feel tight, swollen, or sensitive to touch for the first few days.
Tear trough filler aftercare guidance
What to do and what to avoid during recovery
Use a clean, cold compress wrapped in a soft cloth beneath the eyes for 10 minutes at a time. Be extremely gentle — the under-eye skin is delicate and the tissue is swollen. Do not press. Light contact only.
This is often recommended after tear trough filler treatment. Sleep on your back with two pillows for the first three to five nights. Head elevation may help reduce under-eye swelling. Sleeping on your side may increase pressure on the treated area during early recovery.
Hyaluronic acid fillers interact with water in the surrounding tissue. Staying well hydrated may support overall recovery. Aim for at least two litres of water per day.
The treated area may continue to settle over several weeks, and changes are usually assessed at the six to eight week follow-up appointment. Because the skin in this area is thin, swelling can be very visible in the first few days and may change noticeably over the following weeks. Avoid assessing the outcome too early and wait for your follow-up appointment before considering additional treatment.
Photograph the under-eye area each day at the same time and in the same lighting. This helps you track improvement and provides useful information for your practitioner at your follow-up appointment.
If something does not look or feel right, call the clinic. The 24/7 medical professional is available for post-treatment queries at any time.
Avoid rubbing, pressing, or massaging the under-eye area. Rubbing may place pressure on the treated area and can increase swelling or bruising. Be conscious of habitual eye rubbing – when tired, when removing makeup, or if you have itchy eyes.
Avoid applying any makeup to the under-eye area for at least 24 hours. This includes concealer, eye shadow, eyeliner, and mascara. The injection sites require time to close, and applying cosmetic products too soon may increase the risk of irritation or infection.
If you wear contact lenses, be very gentle when inserting and removing them for the first 48 hours. The pulling and stretching of the lower eyelid during lens removal can put pressure on the treated area. Consider wearing glasses temporarily if comfortable.
Alcohol may increase swelling and bruising during early recovery. Because the under-eye area is very visible, swelling or bruising may be more noticeable during recovery. Wait at least 48 hours.
Activities that significantly raise blood pressure may increase swelling or bruising. Avoid the gym, running, bending forward, and heavy lifting for at least 24 hours.
Saunas, steam rooms, hot baths, and prolonged sun exposure may contribute to swelling. Keep the area cool and protected for the first two days.
Bending forward may increase blood flow and fluid accumulation in the under-eye area. Minimise head-down positions for the first 48 hours to help manage swelling.
Skincare and nutrition after anti-wrinkle treatments
Skincare
Avoid eye creams containing retinol, retinaldehyde, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, peptides, or any other active ingredients for at least seven days. These products may irritate the delicate under-eye skin during early recovery and increase sensitivity.
For the first week, use only a plain, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic eye cream or moisturiser beneath the eyes. Apply it by patting gently with your ring finger — do not rub or drag the product across the skin.
Once injection sites have closed (after 24 hours), apply a gentle SPF 50+ sunscreen to the under-eye area. UV exposure may contribute to pigmentation changes in bruised skin and can affect overall skin health. Choose a mineral sunscreen if your skin is particularly sensitive post-treatment.
Food & Drink
The 48-hour alcohol restriction mentioned above is an important dietary consideration during recovery. When dining out or socialising, opt for sparkling water, herbal tea, or coconut water. These options can help maintain hydration during recovery.
Water-rich foods — soups, smoothies, cucumber, watermelon, and leafy greens — complement the two litres of daily water recommended above. A balanced diet that includes nutrients such as vitamin C and zinc supports normal tissue recovery.
Heat may increase blood flow to the treated area and may contribute to swelling. Allow hot drinks and soups to cool to a comfortable temperature before consuming them on the day of treatment.
High-sodium foods may contribute to fluid retention, which can make under-eye puffiness more noticeable. Reducing salt intake in the first few days after treatment may help limit fluid retention during recovery.
Tyndall effect
The Tyndall effect refers to a bluish or greyish discolouration that can sometimes appear when hyaluronic acid filler is visible through very thin skin. The under-eye area is one of the areas where this phenomenon may occur because the skin in this region is very thin.
If you notice a persistent blue, grey, or violet tint beneath the eye that does not resolve as swelling subsides, contact the clinic. This is not bruising – bruising changes colour and fades. The Tyndall effect may remain visible rather than fading in the same way that bruising does.
The Tyndall effect may be addressed if it occurs. In some cases, your practitioner may consider treatments such as hyaluronidase (an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid filler). Early identification allows the practitioner to assess and discuss appropriate management options.
This effect is not commonly reported, particularly when appropriate product selection and placement techniques are used. Understanding what it looks like helps patients identify any unusual changes and contact the clinic if needed.
Under-eye swelling
Swelling after tear trough filler can sometimes appear noticeable. The under-eye area may look quite puffy in the early stages of recovery. This can occur because the skin in the under-eye region is very thin and may respond with visible swelling.
The degree of swelling does not necessarily reflect the amount of filler used. Even small amounts of product may be associated with noticeable swelling in this area. For this reason, it is important to allow time for the area to settle.
Strategies that may support recovery include sleeping on your back with your head elevated, applying gentle cold compresses, staying hydrated, limiting salt intake, and avoiding prolonged bending forward. Many patients notice improvement within the first week, although swelling may take several weeks to settle fully.
Your treatment plan
At Luxe Lips, the consultation plays an important role in treatment planning. Under-eye concerns are often influenced by multiple factors, including skin quality, collagen changes, pigmentation, and mid-face volume.
Your practitioner performs a comprehensive assessment before recommending treatment, using the Luxe Lips framework: Skin Quality → Structure → Refinement.
For some patients, bioremodelling may be considered before tear trough filler, often spaced by several weeks. These treatments may be used to support skin hydration and overall skin quality in the under-eye area. PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) treatment may also be considered in combination with microneedling as part of some treatment plans.
Energy-based treatments such as Fotona 5D may also be incorporated depending on individual concerns, particularly where skin quality changes are present. Your practitioner may recommend sequencing treatments over time depending on your assessment and goals.
Some clinical literature has explored patient satisfaction in multimodal aesthetic treatment approaches (Weinkle et al., 2017). This reflects the Luxe Lips philosophy of staged treatment planning and ongoing skin maintenance. Tear trough filler may be considered as part of a broader treatment plan depending on individual goals.
Every treatment plan is individualised. Your practitioner will make recommendations based on your anatomy and concerns. A conservative approach is typically used when planning treatment. Next steps will be discussed at your follow-up appointment.
When you’re ready, you can schedule a session to discuss your next steps at our Moonee Ponds, Camberwell, or Brighton cosmetic clinic.
Healing timeline
Day 1 (Day of treatment)
Swelling may be most noticeable during the first day. The under-eye area may look puffy and appear different from the final outcome. Bruising begins. Tenderness and tightness can occur. Apply cold compresses gently and sleep on your back with your head well elevated.
Days 2–3
Swelling may still be noticeable. Bruising may darken and spread. The area may appear more swollen before improvement becomes noticeable, which can occur during early recovery. Continue cold compresses and head elevation.
Days 4–7
Swelling may begin to improve. Bruising starts to transition through colour changes. TThe under-eye contour may become more visible as swelling reduces. Some patients still prefer to avoid social commitments.
Weeks 1-2
Many patients notice improvement. Bruising fades. Swelling continues to reduce. Changes in the treated area may become more noticeable. Makeup can be used to conceal residual discolouration.
Weeks 2-4
The treated area continues to settle over time. The under-eye contour may appear more defined as swelling resolves. This stage often allows a clearer assessment of the treatment outcome.
Weeks 6-8 (Follow-Up)
By this stage, the treated area has usually settled enough for assessment. Your follow-up appointment allows your practitioner to assess the treatment outcome, including volume, symmetry, and surface contour.
What is normal vs what warrants a call
Normal
- ✓Significant swelling beneath the eyes, which can make the area appear puffy
- ✓Bruising that appears dark and may spread across the under-eye region
- ✓Tenderness and tightness beneath the eyes
- ✓Visible lumpiness or unevenness, which may occur during the early recovery period
- ✓Watery eyes or mild sensitivity to light on the day of treatment
- ✓Mild asymmetry — one eye may swell more than the other
Swelling and bruising in the under-eye area can appear more noticeable than patients expect. These changes usually improve as healing progresses. The treated area generally requires several weeks to settle before the outcome can be properly assessed.
Contact the clinic promptly if you experience
- !Swelling that increases significantly after day three rather than improving
- !A persistent bluish or greyish tint that does not change or fade (sometimes referred to as the Tyndall effect)
- !Signs of infection — increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever
- !Persistent lumpiness that does not improve after three to four weeks
- !Significant asymmetry that does not resolve as swelling subsides
Seek urgent care if you experience
- ⚠Sudden vision changes — blurred vision, partial vision loss, or any visual disturbance
- ⚠Skin that turns white (blanches) and does not return to its normal colour within a few seconds
- ⚠Severe, disproportionate pain that increases rather than decreases over time
- ⚠Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- ⚠Signs of anaphylaxis — widespread swelling, hives, dizziness, rapid heartbeat
These symptoms require urgent medical assessment. Contact the Luxe Lips emergency line immediately and follow the instructions provided. If advised, attend your nearest emergency department promptly.
Your follow-up appointment
Your follow-up is scheduled approximately six to eight weeks after treatment.Tear trough filler is a highly precise treatment, and follow-up assessment allows your practitioner to review how the area has settled.
At your follow-up, your practitioner will assess the volume, contour, and skin surface of the under-eye area. If concerns such as asymmetry or a bluish tint (sometimes referred to as the Tyndall effect) are identified, your practitioner will discuss appropriate next steps with you. If additional treatment is considered appropriate, it may be discussed at this appointment.
Bring your recovery photos to this appointment — they help your practitioner understand how your healing progressed
session.
If you are ready to discuss your treatment plan, book your consultation now.
Common questions about tear trough filler aftercare
How long does tear trough filler swelling last?
Swelling is often most noticeable during the first 24 to 48 hours and can remain visible for five to ten days. Mild residual swelling may persist for up to two to three weeks. The treated area generally requires several weeks to settle before the outcome can be properly assessed.
Why do my under-eyes look worse after filler?
The under-eye skin is very thin, which means even small treatment volumes can lead to noticeable swelling. The area may appear more swollen around days two to three before improvement becomes noticeable. This can occur during the early recovery period, and it is best to allow time for swelling to settle before assessing the outcome.
What is the Tyndall effect?
The Tyndall effect refers to a bluish or greyish tint that can appear beneath very thin skin after hyaluronic acid filler treatment. Unlike bruising, this type of discolouration may not change colour or fade over time. If you notice persistent blue-grey discolouration, contact the clinic so your practitioner can assess the area and discuss appropriate management.
Can I wear contact lenses after tear trough filler?
Yes, but be very gentle when inserting and removing them for the first 48 hours. The movement of the lower eyelid during lens insertion or removal can place pressure on the treated area. Consider wearing glasses temporarily if comfortable.
Can I wear eye makeup after tear trough filler?
Avoid eye makeup for at least 24 hours. After that, apply it gently and avoid rubbing or dragging products across the under-eye area. Use gentle, fragrance-free makeup removers.
How long does tear trough filler last?
Tear trough filler may last around twelve to eighteen months. The under-eye area generally experiences less movement than other facial areas, which may influence longevity. Results vary based on the product used and individual factors.
Is tear trough filler painful?
Levels of discomfort vary between individuals. The filler contains local anaesthetic, and topical numbing cream is applied before treatment. Many patients describe the sensation as pressure or mild stinging rather than significant pain.
Can tear trough filler go wrong?
As with any injectable treatment, complications can occur. Potential risks include a bluish tint beneath the skin (sometimes referred to as the Tyndall effect) and uneven or excessive correction. If concerns arise, your practitioner can assess the area and discuss appropriate management. Careful assessment and treatment planning are important parts of this procedure.
Should I take time off work after tear trough filler?
Some patients choose to take one to three days away from social or work commitments depending on swelling or bruising. The under-eye area is highly visible, and signs of recovery may be noticeable. Plan accordingly.
Can I exercise after tear trough filler?
Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 to 48 hours. Intense activity may increase swelling during early recovery. It is also advisable to minimise prolonged head-down positions during early recovery.
Do I need anything else besides tear trough filler?
Tear trough filler addresses volume loss beneath the eyes, though some patients may consider additional treatments as part of a broader treatment plan. Treatments such as bioremodelling agents or energy-based devices (for example Fotona 5D) may be considered depending on individual concerns. Your medical professional can discuss the most suitable plan for your goals at your follow-up.
Is tear trough filler enough on its own for under-eye concerns?
Some patients may benefit from a combination approach rather than filler alone. Treatments such as bioremodelling may be considered to support overall skin quality in the under-eye area. PRF combined with microneedling may also be considered depending on individual concerns. Energy-based treatments (for example Fotona 5D) may be incorporated into some treatment plans to address additional concerns. A comprehensive assessment determines the most appropriate plan for your individual concerns — the approach is always patient-centric, not treatment-centric.
How do I know if my under eye filler has migrated?
Filler migration in the tear trough area may present as puffiness or fullness in the area just below or beside where the filler was placed — often described as a ‘shelf’ or ‘ridge’ that was not there before. During the early weeks after treatment, swelling may sometimes resemble migration. It is generally advisable to allow time for swelling to settle before assessing the area. If you notice persistent puffiness that does not improve, contact the clinic for assessment. Migration is considered uncommon but can occur with any injectable treatment.
Is puffiness normal after under eye filler?
Puffiness can occur after under-eye filler and is a common concern during recovery. The under-eye skin is very thin, which means even small treatment volumes may lead to noticeable swelling. It often improves over several days, though minor swelling may persist for a few weeks. Sleeping elevated and applying gentle cold compresses help.
Your Next Step
If you have questions about your recovery, would like to discuss your aftercare, or are ready to book a follow-up appointment, the Luxe Lips clinical team is here to support you with clarity and care.
Tear trough filler aftercare support at Luxe Lips
Post-treatment support is part of the service at Luxe Lips. A 24/7 medical professional is available to answer queries after your appointment. If you have a concern about your healing, regardless of the time, call the clinic and press 1 to alert the team to a medical concern relating to your procedure.
If something concerns you before your follow-up, do not wait. Contact the clinic directly. For appointments, consultations, or general enquiries, visit luxelips.com.au or call the clinic during business hours.
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is intended as general guidance for patients who have received tear trough filler treatment at Luxe Lips. It does not constitute medical advice. Every individual is different, and recovery experiences vary. If you are concerned about any aspect of your recovery, contact the Luxe Lips clinic directly rather than relying solely on this page. For urgent medical concerns unrelated to the procedure, contact your GP or call 000. Individual results may vary. No guarantee of specific outcomes is expressed or implied.
References
- Funt, D. & Pavicic, T. (2013). Dermal fillers in aesthetics: An overview of adverse events and treatment approaches. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 6, 295-316.
- Goodman, G.J. et al. (2020). Current concepts in the use of voluminising hyaluronic acid fillers. Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 61(3), 180-191.
- DeLorenzi, C. (2014). Complications of injectable fillers, Part 2: Vascular complications. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 34(4), 584-600.
- Beleznay, K. et al. (2015). Avoiding and treating blindness from fillers: A review of the world literature. Dermatologic Surgery, 41(10), 1097-1117.
- Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). (2023). Safety information for injectable cosmetic treatments. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.
- Weinkle SH et al. (2018). Impact of comprehensive, minimally invasive, multimodal aesthetic treatment on satisfaction with facial appearance: The HARMONY Study. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 38(5), 540-556.
- Carruthers J et al. (2016). Consensus recommendations for combined aesthetic interventions in the face using botulinum toxin, fillers, and energy-based devices. Dermatologic Surgery, 42(5), 586-597.
- Sundaram H et al. (2016). Global Aesthetics Consensus: Hyaluronic acid fillers and botulinum toxin type A — recommendations for combined treatment. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 137(5), 1410-1423.
- Kim H et al. (2014). The efficacy, longevity, and safety of combined radiofrequency treatment and hyaluronic acid filler for skin rejuvenation. Annals of Dermatology, 26(4), 447-456.
- Kapoor KM (2025). Overfilled face syndrome: A narrative review and proposal for a new classification framework. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
- Sharad, J. (2014). Dermal fillers for the treatment of tear trough deformity: A review of anatomy, treatment techniques, and complications. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 5(4), 229-238.
