Procedure
Correct drooping upper eyelids and puffy bags below the eyes by removing excess fat, skin and muscle. (Upper-eyelid surgery may be eligible for a Medicare rebate).
Anesthesia
Usually local with sedation, or general.
In / OutPatient
Usually outpatient.
Side Effects
Temporary discomfort, tightness of lids, swelling, bruising. Temporary dryness, burning, itching of eyes. Excessive tearing, sensitivity to light for first few weeks.
Risks
Temporary blurred or double vision. Infection, bleeding. Swelling at the corners of the eyelids. Dry eyes. Formation of whiteheads. Slight asymmetry in healing or scarring. Difficulty in closing eyes completely (rarely permanent). Pulling down of lower lids (may require further surgery). Blindness (extremely rare).
Recovery
Reading: 2 to 3 days. Back to work: 7 to 10 days. Contact lenses: 2 weeks or more. Strenuous activities, alcohol: about 3 weeks. Bruising and swelling gone: several weeks.
Duration
Several years. Sometimes permanent.