Common Misconceptions About Under-Eye Mesotherapy
While the world of medical aesthetics is rapidly evolving in the light of technology and science, unfortunately, misinformation is spreading just as quickly. Especially when it comes to the eye area—the most noticeable and most delicate region of our face—hearsay, illusions created by social media filters, and unrealistic expectations can lead patients to make wrong decisions or experience disappointment. Under-Eye Mesotherapy, one of the most effective non-surgical methods in eye area aesthetics, is a powerful treatment protocol that provides biological repair. However, many misconceptions (urban legends) circulate in society about this method, such as “it creates miracles in a single session,” “it eliminates all types of under-eye bags,” or “it is the same as filler.”
Especially in a geography like İzmir, where aesthetic awareness is high but sun and sea factors accelerate skin aging, accessing accurate information becomes even more critical. Before deciding on a treatment, patients need to know the limits of that treatment, what it can and cannot do, and its scientific foundations—this is the cornerstone of the physician–patient trust relationship. Under-eye mesotherapy is not an “eraser,” but rather a “nutritional supplement” and a “stimulator” that enhances skin quality.
Misconception 1: “Under-Eye Bags Completely Disappear with Mesotherapy”
Reality: This is perhaps the most common and biggest misconception. Under-eye bagging generally occurs due to genetic structure or the aging process, when the fat pads supporting the eyeball herniate and protrude forward. This is an anatomical and structural problem.
Mesotherapy can tighten the skin with vitamins and minerals injected under the skin, increase lymphatic drainage to reduce “edema” (fluid retention), and help the skin appear firmer. This can alleviate the appearance of bagging in mild cases or swelling related to fatigue. However, it does not have the ability to dissolve or eliminate herniated fat tissue (the true bag). In advanced cases of bagging, the “Gold Standard” treatment is surgery (Blepharoplasty). Mesotherapy is used only as a supportive method to slightly improve appearance in patients who are not suitable for surgery or who do not want surgery.
Misconception 2: “Mesotherapy and Under-Eye Light Filler Are the Same Thing”
Reality: Although these two procedures are often confused by patients, their purposes and contents are completely different.
- Under-Eye Light Filler: Its main purpose is to “Add Volume.” Cross-linked hyaluronic acid gel is used to fill the hollow (tear trough) under the eyes, level height differences, and eliminate shadowing. It is a physical filler material.
- Under-Eye Mesotherapy: Its main purpose is to “Improve Skin Quality.” Non–cross-linked (fluid) hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and peptides are used to nourish, hydrate, brighten skin tone, and repair fine wrinkles. It does not add volume or cause puffiness; it repairs.
Experienced physicians in İzmir often combine these two treatments according to the patient’s needs; first, skin quality is improved with mesotherapy, and then hollows are filled with filler.
Misconception 3: “One Session Is Enough and the Effect Lasts a Lifetime”
Reality: Mesotherapy is not a surgical procedure; it is a biological stimulation and nourishment treatment. Cells in our body are constantly renewing, and the aging process continues. Therefore, mesotherapy is not a “single-session” procedure.
The effect of mesotherapy emerges cumulatively. Generally, “Course Treatments” consisting of 3 to 6 sessions performed at intervals of 1–2 weeks are recommended. While a slight radiance is felt after the first session, true structural repair and lightening of dark circles become noticeable after the 3rd session. After completing the course, the improvement achieved is lasting; however, since aging continues, “Maintenance Sessions” after 6 months or 1 year are necessary to preserve the results. There is currently no lifelong permanent medical aesthetic procedure (excluding surgery).
Misconception 4: “All Types of Under-Eye Dark Circles Can Be Treated with Mesotherapy”
Reality: Under-eye dark circles do not have a single cause, and mesotherapy cannot treat every cause. Success rates vary depending on the source of the dark circles:
- Circulation-Related Dark Circles: Bluish/purplish appearance caused by slowed blood circulation and dilated vessels in the area. Mesotherapy cocktails (vitamin K, caffeine, etc.) accelerate circulation and are highly effective for this type.
- Pigmentation-Related Dark Circles: Brownish circles caused by genetically increased melanin pigment in the under-eye skin. Mesotherapy products containing vitamin C and glutathione help lighten the color but cannot completely change genetic structure.
- Structural (Shadowing) Dark Circles: Shadows caused by a hollow under-eye area. In this case, the color is actually normal, but light refraction creates a dark appearance. Here, filler—not mesotherapy—is required.
Misconception 5: “The Procedure Is Very Painful and Has a Long Recovery Time”
Reality: Since the eye area is sensitive, it is normal for patients to have concerns about pain. However, with modern techniques, this procedure is quite comfortable.
Before application, strong anesthetic creams are applied to the area and left on for about 15–20 minutes. The needles used are “micro-needles” (32G–34G), much thinner than insulin needles. Most patients describe the sensation as similar to a mosquito bite or a mild prick. After the procedure, slight redness or tiny bruises (about the size of a pinhead) may occur, but these can be concealed with concealer and the patient can immediately return to social life. There is no recovery period that requires “staying at home.”
Under-Eye Mesotherapy: Expectation vs. Reality Table
The table below is a critical guide for patients to start treatment with realistic expectations:
| Common Misconception (Myth) | Medical Reality |
|---|---|
| “It eliminates under-eye bags without surgery.” | It only reduces edema and tightens the skin to soften the appearance. It does not eliminate fat herniation. |
| “Dark circles are erased in a single session.” | Requires a course treatment (3–6 sessions); the effect increases gradually. |
| “It causes puffiness and volume like filler.” | It does not add volume. It nourishes, hydrates, and repairs the skin. |
| “Its effect is permanent for life.” | Maintenance sessions are required as aging continues. |
| “It is a very painful and risky procedure.” | Comfortable with anesthetic cream and safe in expert hands. |
Environmental Factors in İzmir and Mesotherapy
Living in İzmir is both an advantage and a disadvantage for our skin. While humid air delays dryness, intense UV rays (photoaging) accelerate collagen breakdown in the eye area.
For this reason, dermatologists in İzmir view under-eye mesotherapy not only as a “corrective” procedure but also as a “protective shield.” Mesotherapy courses performed before and after summer help prevent premature aging of the eye area by neutralizing oxidative stress (free radicals) caused by the sun.
Content of the Products Used: Chemical or Natural?
Another common misconception is that the injected substances are harmful chemicals. In fact, mesotherapy cocktails consist of “Biocompatible” substances.
- Hyaluronic Acid: A natural moisturizer already present in our body.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Building blocks we obtain through nutrition.
- Salmon DNA: Natural polynucleotides that support cellular regeneration.
Since these substances are not foreign to the body, the risk of allergy is extremely low, and they are completely metabolized by the body over time.
Conclusion: Beauty That Comes with Knowledge
In summary, correcting the “Common Misconceptions About Under-Eye Mesotherapy” increases patient trust and satisfaction with treatment. This procedure is not a magic wand; it is a powerful repair support offered by science. Lightening of dark circles, smoothing of fine lines, and achieving a more refreshed appearance are possible; however, this process requires patience, proper planning, and expert hands.
For those considering eye area aesthetics in İzmir, listening not to social media trends but to the scientific guidance of their physicians is the key to achieving the most natural and healthy result.
