What is Lacrifill Treatment?
Lacrifill is a specialised tear trough filler treatment designed to address the hollows and dark circles under your eyes. It uses hyaluronic acid (a natural substance that holds moisture) to plump up the delicate under-eye area.
Lacrifill is an advanced, long-lasting treatment designed to support patients suffering from dry eye disease caused by tear drainage issues or insufficient aqueous tear production. Unlike traditional punctal plugs, Lacrifill uses a soft, gel-based filler that is carefully placed into the tear drainage system (canaliculi), helping to retain natural tears on the surface of the eye for a prolonged period.
Lacrifill works by gently occluding the drainage channels, allowing your own natural tears to remain on the eye for longer. This improves hydration, reduces irritation, and supports a healthier, more stable ocular surface.
The procedure is quick and minimally invasive. Numbing drops are applied to ensure comfort before the Lacrifill gel is precisely introduced into the tear ducts. Treatment typically takes just a few minutes per eye, with no downtime required, so you can return to your normal daily activities straight away.
Lacrifill Treatment – What to Expect
Before Your Appointment
- Consultation: You’ll meet with a practitioner to discuss your concerns, medical history, and whether you’re a suitable candidate
- Photos: They’ll likely take before pictures
- Avoid blood thinners: You may be asked to avoid alcohol, aspirin, and certain supplements for a few days before to minimize bruising
What Happens During the Treatment
- Numbing: The area is cleaned and numbing cream is applied (usually 15-20 minutes)
- The injection: Using a very fine needle or cannula (a blunt-tipped tube), the practitioner carefully injects small amounts of Lacrifill under your eyes
- Duration: The actual injection process takes up to 30 mins
- Sensation: You might feel slight pressure, pinching, or mild discomfort, but it’s generally well-tolerated
After the Appointment
- What you’ll see: Immediate improvement in the hollow area, though there may be some swelling
- Possible side effects: Mild swelling, bruising, redness, or tenderness (normal and temporary)
- You can go home right away: It’s often called a “lunchtime procedure”
Aftercare
- Avoid touching or massaging the area
- No heavy exercise for 24-48 hours
- Sleep with your head elevated
- Avoid makeup for 24 hours
- Stay out of extreme heat (saunas, sunbeds)
Results
- When you’ll see them: Some results are immediate, but final results appear after 2 weeks once swelling subsides
- How long they last: Typically 12-18 months
- Follow-up: You may have a check-up appointment after 2 weeks
The treatment is relatively quick and straightforward, with most people returning to normal activities the same day!
Benefits & Advantages of Lacrifill
One of the key advantages of Lacrifill is its durability. While traditional plugs can sometimes fall out or cause irritation, Lacrifill conforms to the natural shape of the canaliculus, making it more stable and comfortable for patients.
Lacrifill is particularly suitable for those who have not achieved sufficient relief from artificial tears or who find themselves relying on them frequently throughout the day. At Dry Eye Wales, it may also be recommended as part of a comprehensive dry eye management plan, alongside treatments that address inflammation, allergy, lipid deficiency, and eyelid health.
Before treatment, we carry out a thorough assessment to determine whether Lacrifill is the most appropriate option for you. Our tailored approach ensures that we target the underlying cause of your symptoms, rather than simply managing them.
Our dry eye specialists will guide you through every step of the process, answering any questions and ensuring you feel comfortable and informed throughout your treatment journey.
Key Benefits
- A unique cross-linked hyaluronic acid canalicular gel
- Preservative-free and non-allergenic
- Each treatment can provide relief for up to 6 months
- Designed to have an immediate effect
- Adapts to each patient’s unique anatomy for improved comfort and fit
- Lacrifill is an FDA-cleared and CE-marked medical device
Ready to Refresh Your Look?
Say goodbye to tired-looking eyes and hello to a brighter, more youthful appearance. Lacrifill treatment could be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Request Your Consultation Today
Our expert team at Dry Eye Wales is here to answer your questions and create a personalized treatment plan just for you. During your consultation, we’ll assess your needs, discuss your goals, and explain exactly what Lacrifill can do for you with no obligation. Request your consultation today or call us to book.