PRP vs filler for under eye comparison at MDW Aesthetics Miami in Brickell

PRP vs Filler for Under Eye Hollows in Miami

2026-02-16Dr. Mina Ayad, MD

PRP regenerates under eye tissue naturally over 4-6 weeks. Filler provides instant volume. The best choice depends on your concern: dark circles favor PRP, while deep hollows may respond better to filler.

Dr. Mina Ayad, MD - Aesthetic Medical Director at MDW Aesthetics Miami
Dr. Mina Ayad, MD
Aesthetic Medical Director | MDW Aesthetics Miami

PRP regenerates under eye tissue naturally over 4-6 weeks by stimulating collagen production. Filler provides instant volume by physically filling the hollow space. At MDW Aesthetics in Brickell, we offer both treatments and recommend one over the other based on the specific cause of your under eye concerns.

Under eye treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Dark circles from thin skin respond differently than hollows from volume loss. This guide compares PRP and filler side by side so you can have an informed conversation with your provider about which approach matches your anatomy and goals.

PRP vs Filler: Side-by-Side Comparison

PRP works by stimulating your body's own collagen production to thicken and rejuvenate under eye skin. Filler works by physically adding volume to fill hollows and reduce shadow-casting depressions.

FeaturePRP Under EyeFiller Under Eye
MechanismRegenerative (collagen stimulation)Volumizing (space filling)
Results timelineGradual (2-6 weeks)Immediate
Duration12-18 months12-18 months
Sessions needed2-3 initial sessions1 session (touch-ups as needed)
Best forThin skin, dark circles, fine linesVolume loss, deep hollows, tear troughs
MaterialYour own blood plateletsHyaluronic acid gel
ReversibleN/A (naturally metabolized)Yes (hyaluronidase dissolves)
Risk of Tyndall effectNonePossible (bluish hue from superficial placement)
Price at MDW$399/session$499/syringe

When PRP Is the Better Choice

Choose PRP when your under eye concerns stem from thin, dark skin, visible blood vessels, fine lines, or overall skin quality decline rather than significant volume loss.

PRP excels in these situations:

  • Dark circles caused by thin skin transparency (blood vessels showing through)
  • Fine lines and crepey texture beneath the eyes
  • Mild hollowing that needs tissue regeneration rather than volume addition
  • Patients who prefer using their own biological material
  • Patients who have experienced the Tyndall effect (bluish discoloration) from previous under eye filler

When Filler Is the Better Choice

Choose filler when deep hollows or tear trough depressions create obvious shadows that need immediate physical volume restoration.

Filler works best for:

  • Deep tear trough depressions that cast visible shadows
  • Significant volume loss from aging or genetics
  • Patients who want immediate results for an upcoming event
  • Cases where the primary concern is structural volume, not skin quality

"The under eye area is the most delicate zone on the face for any injectable treatment," says Dr. Mina Ayad, Medical Director at MDW Aesthetics. "I assess the skin thickness, depth of the hollow, and cause of the dark circles before recommending PRP, filler, or a combination. The wrong approach in this area creates more problems than it solves."

The Combination Approach

Some patients benefit from both treatments: filler for immediate volume correction and PRP for long-term skin quality improvement. This combination produces the most complete under eye rejuvenation.

The combination protocol at MDW Aesthetics typically looks like this:

  1. Initial PRP session to begin skin thickening and quality improvement ($399)
  2. Filler placed 4-6 weeks later once skin quality has improved ($499)
  3. Follow-up PRP session to maintain collagen production ($399)

This staged approach allows the PRP to prepare the tissue before filler is placed, reducing complications and producing more natural-looking results than either treatment alone.

Not sure which under eye treatment is right for you? Schedule a complimentary consultation at MDW Aesthetics in Brickell. Dr. Ayad and our practitioner team will assess your under eye anatomy and recommend the most effective approach. View our current pricing for all under eye treatments.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Results vary by individual. Consult with a qualified provider before undergoing any treatment.

PRP vs Filler for Under Eye Hollows in Miami — Infographic by MDW Aesthetics Miami

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Frequently Asked Questions

PRP is generally better for dark circles caused by thin skin and visible blood vessels because it thickens the skin naturally. Filler is better for dark circles caused by volume loss and deep hollows. Your provider at MDW Aesthetics can determine the best approach during consultation.
Yes. Some patients benefit from combining both treatments -- filler for immediate volume and PRP for long-term skin quality improvement. This combination approach is available at MDW Aesthetics in Brickell.
Both treatments have minimal downtime (1-3 days of potential bruising or swelling). PRP tends to have slightly less swelling than filler. Most Miami patients return to work the next day after either treatment.
Dr. Mina Ayad, MD - Aesthetic Medical Director at MDW Aesthetics Miami
Dr. Mina Ayad, MD
Aesthetic Medical Director

Dr. Ayad oversees all clinical operations at MDW Aesthetics in Brickell, Miami. As Medical Director, he ensures every treatment meets the highest standards of safety and aesthetic excellence.

Have Questions? We Are Here to Help.

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This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Read our medical disclaimer.