Tear trough filler is a non-surgical treatment that uses reversible hyaluronic acid (HA) to restore volume to the hollow beneath the lower eyelid, reducing dark shadows and the appearance of under-eye bags. At our partner clinics, tear trough filler costs from £450 for one syringe and around £750 for two, all-inclusive of the consultation, the filler, a cannula technique to reduce bruising, and a two-week review. Results are visible immediately and typically last 9–18 months. Because the treatment is carried out by consultants who also perform eyelid surgery, you get honest advice on whether filler — or surgery — is genuinely right for your under-eye concern.
What causes under-eye bags and hollows?
The tear trough is the groove that runs from the inner corner of the eye down towards the cheek. With age, the fat pads that cushion the eye descend and the ligament tethering this area becomes more visible, creating a hollow. The result is a dark, shadowed, tired appearance — often described as "bags" — even when you are well rested. Loss of skin elasticity and thinning of the delicate lower-lid skin add to the effect.
Not every under-eye concern suits filler. True herniated fat pads (genuine bulging bags) are usually better treated surgically with lower blepharoplasty, whereas a hollow or shadow with good skin quality responds beautifully to filler. Getting this distinction right is exactly why an oculoplastic-led assessment matters.
Is tear trough filler right for you?
- Best for: hollows and shadows in the tear trough with good skin tone
- Reduces: the tired, dark-circle appearance caused by volume loss
- Less suited to: large, herniated fat-pad bags or very lax skin
- Reversible: HA filler can be dissolved if you are unhappy or over-corrected
- Temporary: results last months, not permanently — top-ups maintain them
- Assessment-led: your consultant confirms suitability before any treatment
Not sure if you need filler or surgery? A consultant oculoplastic assessment tells you honestly which option suits your under-eye anatomy.
Book an under-eye assessmentYour options for under-eye rejuvenation
There is no one-size-fits-all answer for under-eye bags. Your consultant will match the treatment to your anatomy, skin quality and goals.
Where the concern is really upper-lid heaviness rather than the lower lid, upper eyelid surgery or a brow lift may be more appropriate — your consultation will clarify this.
What happens during treatment
Tear trough filler is a precise, quick procedure performed by a consultant experienced in the anatomy around the eye. Numbing cream keeps discomfort minimal, and a blunt cannula is often used to reduce the risk of bruising and improve safety.
- Your consultant assesses your under-eye anatomy and confirms filler is the right choice.
- Topical anaesthetic cream is applied and the area is cleaned.
- A small amount of hyaluronic acid filler is placed deep in the tear trough, usually via a blunt cannula, and gently moulded.
- The result is reviewed in the mirror with you and refined for symmetry.
- You are given aftercare advice and booked for a two-week review to assess and top up if needed.
Recovery and results
Downtime is minimal — most people return to work and social activities the same day. Here is what to expect:
Day of treatment
Results are visible immediately. Mild swelling, tenderness or small pinpoint marks are normal. Avoid make-up on the area for the rest of the day.
Days 1–3
Any minor bruising or puffiness peaks then settles. Sleep slightly propped up and avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol and saunas.
Week 1–2
Filler settles into its final position and any swelling resolves. Your two-week review assesses the result and refines it if needed.
Months 9–18
Results are enjoyed over this period. A maintenance top-up restores volume as the hyaluronic acid is gradually broken down naturally.
If ever unhappy
Because the filler is hyaluronic acid, it can be dissolved with hyaluronidase, giving a reassuring safety net.
Tear trough filler cost in the UK
Our pricing is transparent and all-inclusive: the consultation, the filler itself, the treatment, aftercare and your two-week review are all covered. There are no hidden extras.
- 1 syringe (1ml): from £450
- 2 syringes: from £750
- Two-week review & minor refinement: included
- Dissolving (hyaluronidase), if ever needed: from £250
- Surgical alternative — lower blepharoplasty: from £3,500 (see the blepharoplasty cost guide)
Because tear trough treatment is aesthetic, it is self-pay and not covered by medical insurance. 0% finance is available to spread the cost of treatment packages. For our full range of eyelid and cosmetic eye prices, see the price guides.