Do your eyes feel tired, even after getting a full night’s sleep? Dark circles and hollows under the eyes can make you look aged and burnt-out. This can lead a lot of people to getting under-eye fillers to repair the situation. These fillers have the ability to restore volume, smooth out shadows and give a fresh, youthful appearance.
Under-eye fillers offer a speedy, non-invasive solution. They plump up areas where the skin has thinned to reduce the appearance of dark circles and hollows. The treatment is popular with men and women who want quick results without surgery.
But are fillers a good fit for you? What do they cost? Are there risks?
Here are the answers to all your questions. Continue reading to find out how under-eye fillers work, what you can expect once you have them, and how to get the best results.
What Are Under Eye Fillers?
Under-eye fillers are injectable gels that replace lost volume under the eyes. They also help minimize dark circles, hollows and a sunken appearance. The vast majority of fillers are made with hyaluronic acid (HA), a compound that occurs naturally in skin. HA draws in moisture, making the skin fuller and smoother.
Why Do Hollows Form Under the Eyes?
The under-eye area consists of thin, delicate skin. With age, collagen and fat degrade. This loses volume in the area, and makes the under-eyes look darker and hollow. Genetics can cause some people to have this issue even from a young age.
Fillers work by lifting and smoothing this area, minimizing the shadows that lead to dark circles. They are a great solution when dark circles are a result of volume loss instead of pigment or visible veins.
Types of Under-Eye Fillers
Most experts use hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers because they blend well with the skin and can be reversed if needed. Some common HA fillers for the under-eye area include:
- Restylane-L – Soft, smooth, and less likely to swell.
- Juvederm Volbella – Light and natural-looking, best for subtle corrections.
- Belotero Balance – Spreads evenly for a seamless finish.
Other fillers, like poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) or calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse), are sometimes used but are riskier under the eyes. They are better for deep wrinkles in other areas of the face.
Can Fillers Fix All Dark Circles?
Not always. If your dark circles are due to thin skin or hollowness, fillers can help. But if they come from hyperpigmentation (excess melanin) or visible veins, fillers won’t work. In such cases, laser treatments, chemical peels, or skincare products may be better options.
Am I a Good Candidate for Under-Eye Fillers?
Not everyone with dark circles or hollows needs fillers. They work best for volume loss, not for skin discoloration or puffy eyes. Here’s how to know if they’re right for you.
Ideal Candidates
You are a good candidate if:
- You have hollow under-eyes due to aging or genetics.
- Your dark circles come from shadows, not skin pigmentation.
- Your skin is not too thin or too loose.
- You want a non-surgical fix with little downtime.
- You have realistic expectations and understand the results are temporary.
Who Should Avoid Under-Eye Fillers?
- If your dark circles are from hyperpigmentation, fillers won’t help. Skincare, chemical peels, or lasers may work better.
- If you have large under-eye bags, fillers can make them look worse. Surgery (blepharoplasty) may be the better option.
- If you have very thin skin, fillers might show through, creating a blue tint (Tyndall effect).
- If you have certain medical conditions or allergies, consult a doctor first.
However, you must consult with a qualified injector first. They will look under your eyes, talk about your goals, and recommend the appropriate treatment. If fillers are not appropriate, they may discuss other options, such as laser resurfacing, skin care or surgery.
Dermal Fillers Under Eyes
Fillers work in different ways. The right one for you will depend on your skin type, concerns and goals. Here’s what you need to know:
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers – Most Common Type
Hyaluronic acid is found naturally in the skin. It also hydrates and adds volume, which is the safest and most common choice.
Top Hyaluronic Acid Fillers for Under-Eyes:
- Restylane-L
- Juvederm Volbella
- Belotero Balance
Pros: Natural results, less swelling risk, reversible.
Cons: Results (6-12 months), so maintenance is needed.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Fillers — Long Duration
These fillers provide volume while stimulating collagen. They’re longer lasting but not often used under the eyes.
Example: Radiesse
Pros: Lasts 18 months; stimulates collagen.
Cons: Not reversible; can cause lumps under thin skin.
3. Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) Fillers – Collagen Boosting
These fillers are a slower process, as they encourage collagen production. Best for multiple days of very severe volume loss; results take weeks to notice.
Example: Sculptra
Pros: Lasts a long time (2+ years), and smoothens skin.
Cons: Takes time to see results, not ideal for fine lines.
4. Fat Transfer (Autologous Fillers) – Natural but Risky
Fat is taken from your own body (usually thighs or belly) and injected under the eyes.
Pros: No synthetic materials, long-lasting results.
Cons: Requires surgery, risk of uneven results.
Which One Should You Choose?
- For first-timers, HA fillers are the safest option.
- If you want longer-lasting results, CaHA or PLLA may work.
- If you prefer natural treatments, fat transfer is an option.
The Under Eye Filler Procedure
Under-eye fillers are a fast and low-invasive treatment. But being aware of what happens at each stage will help you feel more prepared.
1. Consultation
You’ll have a consultation with a professional beforehand. They will:
- Take a look at your under-eye area to see if fillers suit you.
- Talk about your objectives, whether that’s lightening dark circles, or adding volume.
- Describe the risks and potential side effects.
- Suggest the most suitable filler according to your skin and issues.
Note: If you have severe puffiness or pigmentation-related dark circles, fillers are not an option for you.
2. Pre-Injection Preparation
Here are some things to consider before you take the plunge:
- Don’t take blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen) a few days prior to lessen bruising.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine for 24 hours before treatment.
- Arrive with a fresh face — that is, no makeup or skin care.
Some doctors recommend taking Arnica (a natural supplement) leading up to the procedure to minimize bruising.
3. Injection Process
- The doctor cleans the area so it does not get infected.
- They put a numbing cream on you so it doesn’t hurt.
- The filler is applied through a fine needle or cannula (a blunt-tip tube).
- The doctor massages the area gently to distribute the filler evenly.
- This process generally takes approximately 15-30 minutes.
Pain Level: Most people experience a slight pinch, but it’s quite tolerable.
Instant Results: There’s an immediate difference you’ll notice; full results take a few days.
4. Post-Procedure
Immediately following your filler appointment, you might experience:
- Swelling and redness (this disappears within 24-48 hours).
- Some localized bruisings (may last for a few days).
- A touch of fullness — this subsides as the filler integrates.
Aftercare: How to Achieve Optimal Results
Here are some aftercare tips to promote a smooth recovery:
- The first night you should sleep with the head elevated to reduce swelling.
- Don’t touch or massage the area for at least 24 hours.
- Avoid workouts, saunas, and hot showers for 48 hours.
- If you notice swelling or bruising, use a cold compress.
Warnings and Side Effects
Under-eye fillers are mostly safe, but side effects can occur. These include:
Common Side Effects (Temporary)
- Swelling and redness
- Bruising
- Mild discomfort
- Results are uneven (fixable)
Serious Risks (Rare but Possible)
- Lumps or overfilling – This occurs when too much filler is injected.
- Tyndall effect — A blue hue if the filler is placed too superficially.
- Infection — Lack of hygiene or inappropriate aftercare increases risk.
- Vascular occlusion — If filler gets into a blood vessel, it can block blood flow, leading to tissue death.
To minimize risks, choose a trusted professional and follow post-care instructions. If there are any of these serious symptoms, get medical attention immediately.
How to Choose the Right Practitioner
The success of your treatment depends on who does it. When choosing a provider, seek:
- Medical credentials – A licensed dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or certified injector.
- Experience with under-eye fillers – Not all injectors are skilled in delicate eye-area treatments.
- Before-and-after photos – Check real patient results.
- Clinic hygiene and safety measures – A clean, well-equipped facility reduces complications.
- Transparent pricing – Avoid cheap deals that may compromise quality.
A good injector will assess your face holistically, use the right filler, and ensure a natural look.
Alternatives
If fillers are not right for you, consider these non-invasive and surgical alternatives:
Non-Invasive Options
- Topical eye creams – Ingredients like retinol, caffeine, and peptides can reduce dark circles.
- Chemical peels – Light peels can brighten the under-eye area.
- Laser treatments – Stimulates collagen and reduces pigmentation.
- Microneedling – Helps with fine lines and skin texture.
Surgical Option
- Lower Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) – A permanent solution for excess skin and fat under the eyes. This is ideal for people with severe eye bags that fillers cannot fix.
FAQs About Getting Filler Under Your Eyes
How Much Do Fillers Under the Eyes Cost?
The cost range of an under-eye filler depends on the doctor’s skill, the clinic’s location, and the type of filler used. The whole process usually costs between $600 and $2,000.
How Long Do Under-Eye Fillers Last?
Under-eye fillers typically last six to 12 months. The length of time varies based on the type of filler injected and personal factors. Others may see more permanent results with repeated treatments.
Are under-eye fillers painful?
The procedure causes mild discomfort but not pain for most. A numbing cream is slathered on beforehand to make it less painful. Some fillers contain lidocaine too, which helps ease pain upon injection.
Will Under-Eye Fillers Remove Dark Circles Forever?
No, under-eye fillers do not erase dark circles permanently. They reduce the appearance of hollowness and improve light reflection under the eyes. If dark circles come from thin skin or poor circulation, fillers can help. But if they result from genetics or pigmentation, laser treatments or topical creams may be more effective.
When is the Best Time to Start Getting These Fillers?
There is no specific age for under-eye fillers and people begin getting them done from their late 20s through their early20s. Younger individuals use them for subtle enhancement, while older individuals seek to restore lost volume.
Can Fillers Under My Eye Be Dissolved If I Don’t Like the Results?
Yes, if a hyaluronic acid filler (such as Restylane or Juvederm) was used, it can be dissolved with hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down the filler within 24 to 48 hours. However, non-HA fillers are not so easily reversible.
How Long After Under-Eye Fillers Can I Use Makeup?
To prevent infection and irritation, wait at least 24 hours before applying makeup. After a day, a slight concealer can be used if there is bruising—but without rubbing or massaging the area.
Last Words
Under-eye fillers offer a non-surgical solution to common under-eye concerns, providing noticeable improvements with minimal downtime. However, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against potential risks and consider alternative treatments. Consulting with a qualified practitioner will help determine the best approach tailored to your needs.
