Tear trough hollows, also known as lower lid hollows or under-eye hollows, are the sunken grooves that appear beneath the lower eyelids. These depressions create a shadowed area under the eyes, often giving the appearance of fatigue, sadness, or premature aging–even when you’re well-rested.
At her oculoplastic surgery practice in Irvine, Dr. Melanie Ho Erb offers advanced, non-surgical treatments to correct tear trough hollows and restore a youthful, refreshed look for patients across Orange County and Los Angeles.
Dr. Erb performed eyelid surgery and ptosis to remedy drooping eyelids and brows. Photo posted is 4 months post-surgery. I am thrilled. I feel “awake” and I often don’t even bother with makeup, it’s that much of a difference. I would recommend her to everyone. She is so friendly, knowledgable and extremely professional–as is her staff.
What Causes Lower Lid Hollows?
Under-eye hollows are the result of a combination of natural aging and genetic factors:
Facial Volume Loss
Loss of fat and soft tissue in the midface and lower eyelids creates visible hollows.
Bone Structure Changes
Age-related bone resorption around the eye socket leads to a sunken appearance.
Thinning Skin
Decreased collagen and elastin cause the under-eye skin to appear thinner and more translucent.
Genetics/Family History
Some individuals develop tear trough hollows at an early age.
Weight Loss
Significant weight loss can cause facial fat depletion, making hollows more visible.
Sleep Deprivation & Dehydration
Can temporarily worsen the appearance of under-eye hollows.
A 2022 survey by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery found that nearly 60% of adults over 35 were concerned about visible hollows or dark circles under their eyes.
How Tear Trough Hollows Affect Your Appearance
Under-eye hollows can make you look:
- Tired, even after a good night’s sleep
- Older than your actual age
- Sad, stressed, or unwell
- Hollow or gaunt in the midface area
The shadowing effect created by these hollows often enhances the appearance of dark circles and lower eyelid bags.
Non-Surgical Treatment for Tear Trough Hollows
Dr. Melanie Ho Erb offers advanced, personalized treatments to improve the appearance of lower lid hollows:
Dermal Fillers (The Gold Standard)
Hyaluronic acid-based fillers such as Restylane® or Juvederm® Volbella® are strategically injected to:
- Fill the hollow area beneath the eyes
- Smooth the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek
- Reduce shadowing and dark circles
Results are immediate and typically last 12 to 18 months.
Combination Therapy
For some patients, under-eye filler treatment is combined with:
- Cheek volume restoration to support the midface
- Laser skin resurfacing to improve under-eye skin texture
- Medical-grade skincare for long-term skin health
Dr. Erb will customize your treatment based on your facial anatomy, concerns, and desired results.
Why Choose Dr. Melanie Ho Erb for Under-Eye Hollow Treatment
As a double board-certified oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Erb has the advanced training and experience needed to treat the delicate under-eye area safely and naturally.
Patients across Irvine, Orange County, and Los Angeles choose Dr. Erb because she:
- Prioritizes subtle, refreshed results
- Uses precise techniques for safe under-eye filler placement
- Provides thorough, honest consultations
- Has performed thousands of successful facial rejuvenation treatments
Restore a Bright, Youthful Look in Irvine
If tear trough hollows or lower lid hollows are making you look tired, aged, or stressed, professional treatment is available. Dr. Melanie Ho Erb offers safe, effective solutions to restore youthful fullness beneath the eyes.
Schedule your consultation today to learn how you can treat under-eye hollows in Irvine, Orange County, and Los Angeles.
Medically reviewed by Melanie Ho Erb, M.D. on