Under-eye puffiness and facial volume loss are two different things that often get confused. Puffiness refers to swelling or "bags" under the eyes, while volume loss creates hollows and a sunken look, for example in the tear trough or cheeks. They also call for a different approach.
What causes puffiness and volume loss?
The main causes include:
- - Fat pad herniation (puffiness): with age, the small fat pad under the eye can bulge forward, creating a swollen "bags" look. Fluid retention and lack of sleep can temporarily worsen this.
- - Bone and collagen loss (volume loss): from our thirties onward, the underlying bone volume in the face declines along with collagen, making the tear trough, cheeks, and temples appear hollower.
- - Genetics: some people naturally have more fat tissue around the eyes, which can cause puffiness at a younger age.
Treatment at Pêche Skin Clinic in Antwerp
For volume loss, such as a hollow tear trough or sunken cheeks, we use Fillers to subtly restore lost volume. For improved skin quality under the eyes, we sometimes combine this with Polynucleotide or PRP, which firm the skin there and improve its quality.
For puffiness caused by bulging fat tissue, fillers usually aren't the answer, and can sometimes make it look worse. In that case, eyelid correction is often the more suitable treatment. During your consultation, we'll assess which cause applies to you and what the right approach is.
What results can you expect?
Clinical research on hyaluronic acid fillers for the tear trough shows good, natural-looking results when the diagnosis and technique are right. Results are visible immediately and typically last 9 to 12 months.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between puffiness and volume loss?
Puffiness is swelling caused by bulging fat tissue, while volume loss creates hollows as bone volume and collagen decline. Both can occur at the same time, but they call for different treatments: fillers work well for volume loss, but not for puffiness caused by fat tissue.
Can fillers make puffiness worse?
For puffiness caused by bulging fat tissue, fillers can indeed make the area look fuller and therefore more prominent. That's why an accurate diagnosis beforehand is essential.
What's the best treatment for a hollow tear trough?
Carefully placed hyaluronic acid fillers are the most effective treatment to subtly fill a hollow tear trough, giving a fresher, less tired appearance.
How long do results last?
Tear trough filler typically lasts 9 to 12 months, slightly longer than in other areas of the face due to the minimal movement in this zone.
Discuss your puffiness or volume loss with us in Antwerp
Wondering which approach fits you? Book a free consultation at Pêche Skin Clinic in Antwerp and let our specialists assess your face and propose a plan tailored to you.
