The eyes are very important to the expression and overall perception of any person. The eyes determine whether we see a face as youthful and fresh or old and tired.

Drooping upper eyelids, or puffy bags above the eye are formed when excess or loose skin starts to sag. The area of the eye beneath the eyebrows presses down on the lids as the elasticity of the skin declines, lending a tired and sad expression to those affected, (the so-called hangdog look), and in the worst cases may even impair their vision. Baggy or puffy eyes are a typical sign of aging and a result of the skin losing its natural elasticity.

Hanging lower lids, also known as tear bags, actually consist of fatty tissue rather than water deposits. The fatty deposits emerge from within the eye socket and tend to bulge forward when the supporting membrane is too weak. Tear bags are considered particularly off-putting as they make a person appear sick, puffy-eyed or even hung-over. Droopy eyelids are generally associated with the aging process but also frequently appear in young people who are genetically predisposed to them.

Upper and lower lid lift: Key facts at a glance

Op. length for upper lid lift: about 1 hrs at most

Op. length for lower lid lift: about 1 good hrs

Anaesthetic: Upper lids: local; Lower lids: local or general anaesthetic

Clinic stay: outpatient

Post-op. treatment: plaster and stitches removed 3 days after surgery

Back in circulation: after 1 or 2 weeks (for upper lid lift); 2 to 3 weeks (for lower lid lift)

Sport: resume after 3 weeks