It can be done under local or general anaesthesia. The operation is done through natural skin creases on the lids, which will leave an almost invisible scar. Excess skin, muscle or fat might be removed during the procedure, in the lower lid, the excess or sagging fat might be redistributed to cover the tear trough cheek hollow.

Though the side effects are generally rare and mild, the following have been reported in the literature:

• swelling in the corners of the eyes

• irritated and dry eyes

• infection

• inflammation

• reactions to anaesthesia

• difficulty in the closing of the eyes

• bleeding

• numbness

• blurry vision

• discolouration of the skin

there are other side effects which are detailed in our consent form, which we will provide you with, well before your operation.

You would be asked to do the following before surgery, stop drinking alcohol and smoking about a month before the surgery, avoid certain vitamins and blood thinning medicines.

• avoiding direct sunlight and wearing sunglasses up to a month after the surgery

• refraining from rubbing the eyes

• using cold compresses to reduce the swelling on the eyelids

• cleaning the eyelids using the prescribed ointment or eye drops

• avoiding washing the face or hair for about 3-4 days after the surgery

• avoiding all forms of rigorous exercise for a month

• avoiding sexual activity for 2 weeks

The period of recovery varies depends on the patient and the procedure performed. However, it would take 2 weeks, in general, to recover from blepharoplasty.

You would be a good candidate if you have a good mental and physical health. Also, there should be fat deposits under the eyelids, giving them a puffy look. If the excess skin makes your eyelids sag or droop, the doctor might also recommend the surgery.