Numerous patients have been openly discussing their encounters with one of the most prevalent side effects associated with improper under-eye filler techniques—the Tyndall effect. In this article, we will comprehensively explore the Tyndall effect and share valuable insights on how to sidestep it, ensuring you achieve stunning under-eye filler results.
Understanding the Tyndall Effect
The Tyndall effect is a rare occurrence where a patient's skin takes on a bluish hue after receiving dermal fillers. This discoloration predominantly manifests in the skin beneath the eyes due to its delicate nature. Patients experiencing the Tyndall effect may also notice visible swelling in the under-eye area.
Factors Behind the Tyndall Effect
Several factors can contribute to the Tyndall effect:
- Filler injected too close to the skin's surface
- Excessive filler dosage
- Use of an incorrect filler type
The Tyndall effect can be immediately noticeable post-treatment or take several days to become apparent. If not addressed, it may persist for months or even years.
Unpacking the Science of the Tyndall Effect
To comprehend how filler can mimic the appearance of bruising beneath the eyes, let's delve into the science behind the Tyndall effect. Blue light, having a shorter wavelength and higher frequency than red light, scatters about 10 times more when passing through small particles. As most fillers consist of minuscule particles, the skin can adopt a bluish tint due to the way light interacts with these filler particles. Interestingly, this phenomenon is also responsible for the blue appearance of the sky (even though it's technically colorless!).
Avoiding the Tyndall Effect
Certain fillers are more prone to causing the Tyndall effect due to their particle composition. Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are common for under-eye use, given their smooth, transparent, and non-clumping properties. However, because they are clear and composed of fine particles, they are also more likely to cause the Tyndall effect.
Non-HA fillers, such as those containing poly-L-lactic acid and calcium hydroxylapatite, are not typically employed in the under-eye region because they cannot be easily reversed if unsatisfactory results occur.
For those seeking under-eye rejuvenation without eyelid surgery and wishing to avoid the Tyndall effect, two recommended methods are RHA fillers and fat transfer.
RHA Fillers
Currently, the sole category of dermal filler without any risk of causing the Tyndall effect is Revance's RHA® fillers. These Resilient Hyaluronic Acid fillers undergo a gentler manufacturing process than traditional HA fillers. They possess a long-chain molecular formula that closely mirrors natural HA in the body, resulting in better integration into the skin and longer-lasting effects (up to 15 months). RHA fillers are also the sole fillers FDA-approved for treating dynamic lines and wrinkles.
Fat Transfer
Fat transfer, also known as fat grafting, offers an alternative to fillers in the under-eye area. It involves harvesting fat from areas with surplus fat, such as the hips, thighs, or stomach, and transferring it to areas needing added volume, like the under-eyes. When performed by a skilled plastic surgeon, fat transfer can rejuvenate hollowed under-eye areas for years, provided a stable weight is maintained.
Achieving Stunning Under-Eye Filler Results
Creating beautiful under-eye rejuvenation with fillers can be challenging, given the thinness of the skin and the absence of fat between the skin and muscle in the tear troughs. To avoid complications like filler migration and the formation of lumps, it's crucial to have a qualified injector who strategically places small amounts of filler beneath the skin and muscle layers in the tear troughs.
To steer clear of the Tyndall effect, choose a board-certified plastic surgeon or cosmetic nurse experienced in under-eye injections. Additionally, inquire about whether you are a suitable candidate for RHA fillers.
Wondering about your options if you're dissatisfied with your filler outcomes?
If you've received subpar results from an injector without the proper qualifications, take comfort in knowing that both HA and RHA fillers can be readily dissolved with hyaluronidase, an enzyme specifically designed for this purpose. Typically, hyaluronidase can erase filler effects within 24 hours, though in some cases, a follow-up treatment may be necessary. Should you seek correction for your under-eye fillers, our proficient aesthetics team stands ready to dissolve your previous filler and provide a fresh treatment for your under-eye area.