The operation is usually performed under local anaesthesia, which involves an injection underneath the eyelid skin. This is mildly uncomfortable rather than painful. If you prefer, local anaestheisa can be combined with sedation.
The incision is pre-marked with ink, and runs just below the eyelashes extending into a ‘crow’s foot’ laughter line.
During the procedure the ‘arcus marginalis’, a fine ligament attached to the bone of the lower eye socket, is released which frees up the dark circle or tear trough. The fat responsible for the ‘baggy’ appearance is removed, as well as any loose skin. A dissolvable stitch is inserted to ‘tighten’ and support the lower eyelid.
Finally, the incision is closed with stitches, which are removed one week later.
At the end of the operation, ointment is put on the wounds and eye pads are applied to the lids. These pads are removed 30 minutes later.
A “Colorado needle” is used for the incisions rather than a surgical blade and scissors. This greatly reduces bleeding, which results in a faster recovery time.