It’s a sad fact about the human condition that we have to bear witness to our own degradation, seeing our youth fade slowly over time and watching as wrinkles and fine lines set in, as our skin loses its elasticity and starts to sag.

But there is good news to be had and we’re blessed to live in the 21st century, when we can actually do something about these concerns, addressing them as and when they make an appearance (which they may, creating potential cause for concern).

One of the first areas you are likely to start seeing the visible signs of ageing is around the eyes.

This is because the skin there is a lot thinner and more susceptible to free radicals and pollution, as well as the fact that our eyes are incredibly expressive, always crinkling up and moving around. Before you know it, crow’s feet can be seen everywhere and our eyelids are drooping.

Saggy eyelids can not only be a cause for upset from an aesthetic perspective but also from a health and safety one. If your upper lids start to droop too much, your vision can be hampered, which is something you should aim to address sooner rather than later.

One of the best ways to go about dealing with loose skin or folds in your upper eyelids is to consider eyelid reduction surgery, also known as blepharoplasty. Here, the surplus skin is removed along with any protruding fat (if required) to improve the appearance of your upper eyelids.

Not sure if the procedure is the right one for you? Here are five frequently asked questions about upper and lower eyelid surgery to help you decide.

#1 Is anaesthetic used for eyelid surgery?

Yes, upper eyelid surgery can both be carried out using a local anaesthetic (with or without sedation) and lower eyelid surgery can be carried out under general anaesthetic or with local anaesthetic and sedation.

#2 Will blepharoplasty reduce the volume of excess skin of the upper eyelid and the fullness of lower eyelids?

Yes, you should see the results you’re looking for with this type of surgery. Note, however, that it cannot entirely eradicate all eyelid creases, as this would result in an overcorrection through the creation of excess tension on the eyelids.

#3 What are the different types of eyelid surgery?

There are different options available depending on your specific needs and clinical requirements ranging from upper and lower eyelid surgery to lateral canthoplasty, double eyelid surgery for oriental eyelids, laser treatment and chemical peels for fine wrinkles.

#4 Am I eligible for eyelid surgery?

If you have drooping or saggy upper eyelids and excessive bulging of the lower eyelids, you may wish to consider these kind of procedures.

#5 What are the benefits of eyelid surgery?

Upper eyelid surgery can reduce any excess redundant skin and droopiness with minimal scarring. Lower eyelid surgery can improve the excess bulge, also known as baggy eyelids.

If you’d like to find out more about the procedure and what to expect, get in touch with London plastic surgery MACS Clinic today.