Tear trough.
The hollow between lower eyelid and cheek that emphasises dark circles and tiredness. Treated with small amounts of soft hyaluronic acid.
Tear trough in the lexicon: anatomy, why it looks tired, treatment with soft hyaluronic acid, typical amounts, risks such as swelling and the Tyndall effect.
A closer look.
The tear trough is the groove running from the inner corner of the eye diagonally down and outward across the cheek. In some people it is anatomical; in most it deepens with age as mid-face fat descends and the skin thins. Shadows in the groove look like dark circles.
Treatment uses small amounts (often 0.5 ml per side) of very soft hyaluronic acid, deep on the bone and usually with a blunt cannula. The aim is a gentle transition between lid and cheek, not 'filling up'. It is often more sensible to support the cheek first.
The region is demanding: material placed too superficially can shimmer bluish (Tyndall effect) or encourage swelling because the lymphatic system works slowly here. In return, durability is long – often over twelve months.
This lexicon entry is general information and does not replace the medical consultation required under German law (§ 630e BGB).
At a glance.
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Ask via WhatsAppFrequently asked questions.
Does it help against dark circles?
Against shadow-related circles yes; against pigmentation or visible vessels no.
Why is the cheek sometimes treated instead of the trough?
Because the trough appears when the cheek descends; supporting it often makes the groove disappear on its own.
Sources and further reading.
- NHS: Dermal fillers – patient information
- MPDG – German medical devices act (fillers are medical devices)
- BfArM – Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices
- DGPRÄC – German Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons
- § 630e BGB – duty to inform before treatment (German Civil Code)
- DGBT – German Society for Aesthetic Botulinum Toxin Therapy
- AWMF – German clinical practice guidelines
External links open in a new window; their operators are responsible for their content. Medical responsibility for this page: Katayoun Mostaghimi, specialist in general medicine. Last updated: 2026-10-05.
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