Tear Trough Correction

When performing a tear trough correction, Dr. Rad employs the following technique:

1. A tear trough correction must be done with light sedation/general anesthesia. Therefore the initial safety steps focus on reviewing your medical history to ensure no major health concerns such as heart, lung, or kidney disease. You will need a preoperative medical clearance by your primary physician and/or cardiologist or other specialists if indicated.

2. Dr. Rad further ensures your comfort with an injected anesthetic. This also minimizes bleeding and hematoma risk.

3. Dr. Rad makes small incisions in the lower eyelid to then insert implants below the eye.

4. A brow lift and/or lower blepharoplasty may also be needed for more comprehensive results. Speak with Dr. Rad about the possibility of these during your consultation.

5. A light dressing is applied after which you can return home, driven by a friend or family member. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis in almost all cases.

Recovery is a process of tissue healing and feeling back to normal that requires time. The length of time depends on which facial areas are treated, the complexity of surgery, and individual healing factors. The key principle of surgery that Dr. Rad always adheres to is minimizing surgery to achieve best results, thus minimizing healing and recovery time. Since each case is different, Dr. Rad will make sure to guide each patient through the recovery process with comprehensive information based on your unique situation.

The recovery process after a tear trough correction procedure is different for each patient. Following Dr. Rad’s post-surgical care directions is vital. Mild bruising and temporary swelling are normal and resolve quickly. Patients can typically return to work or go to social outings about 5-7 days after surgery.

Care post-surgery is important for both your recovery and results whether at your home or at a hotel. For your safety, as you’ll be somewhat sleepy, you will need a responsible adult to stay with you for at least the first night. If you’re interested in having an experienced private duty nurse, we can help facilitate this care.

Once home or in a hotel, you will mostly rest, although you should be able to perform “activities of daily living,” meaning being up and about and doing basic self care. Since your head will be wrapped, you’ll defer showering until your first post-op appointment with Dr. Rad 1-2 days after surgery.

During the daytime you should walk 10-15 minutes each hour and should not be on bed rest. Pain is relatively mild and most patients need a mild pain medicine to help them sleep. Tissues react with swelling and bruising that distorts facial appearance and causes facial muscles not to work normally, but this is normal and temporary. Cold compresses and head elevation helps with comfort and swelling.

Since nausea is not uncommon after anesthesia, no matter how light the anesthesia given, nausea prevention is essential and straightforward by taking an anti-nausea medicine such as Zofran (Ondansetron). Nausea side effects typically wear off in 24-48 hours. Other side effects of anesthesia include feeling a bit groggy or “out of it”, but this is relatively mild and wears off quickly. Dr. Rad recommends not planning important work-related activities or phone calls as you will not feel your sharpest.

Drinking liquids is most important to maintain hydration. Dr. Rad recommends Gatorade, or Drip Drop and Liquid IV electrolyte replacement powders mixed in water. If neck lift has been done then patients often feel some neck tightness that is normal, common and temporary. You will see Dr. Rad within the first few days to check on your early healing.