Quantitative Evaluation of Improvement of Tear Trough With a Non-Cross-Linked Sodium Hyaluronic Compound: A Three-Dimensional and MRI Analysis

Background: Tear trough deformities are indicative of aging, progressively manifesting as pronounced infraorbital hollows. Although hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers are favored for their safety and efficacy, quantifiable evidence of their effect of action still remains insufficient.

Aims: To investigate the efficacy of non-cross-linked HA compound in tear trough enhancement.

Methods: Twenty-one subjects with moderate to severe infraorbital hollows underwent a single treatment including subcutaneous to supraperiosteal injections of a non-cross-linked HA compound. The effectiveness was assessed through Allergan Infraorbital Hollows Scale (AIHS), satisfaction rates, the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), and quantitative analyses via Canfield VECTRA 3D imaging and MRI measurements during the 6-month follow-up.

Results: A total of 0.67 ± 0.31 and 0.77 ± 0.42 mL of the non-cross-linked HA compound were injected into the left and right suborbital regions, respectively. Substantial improvements in AIHS were observed in 85.71% and 80.95% of subjects at 6 months posttreatment, as assessed by blinded evaluators and treating investigators, respectively. 3D imaging showed volume increases of 0.87 ± 0.32 (left) and 0.99 ± 0.45 mL (right). MRI analysis provided closely aligned results to the 3D analysis. The GAIS and satisfaction rate were 85.71%, 90.48% for treating investigators and were 90.48% and 95.24% for subjects 6 months posttreatment.

Conclusions: The non-cross-linked HA filler demonstrated a safe and efficacious profile for the correction of infraorbital hollows with significant patient satisfaction and sustained outcomes up to 6 months posttreatment. These results support their clinical value in periorbital rejuvenation and reduction of infraorbital hollowing.