No, the non-surgical eye bag removal process is a non-invasive alternative to surgical eye bag removal. There are no incisions and stitches It usually takes the doctor 30 minutes to perform this and the patient is free to go after just one appointment.

IV sedation, local anesthesia or both can be given to you before the process begins. Normally, after the anesthetic injection has anesthetized the area, the plastic surgeon starts by creating an entry for the laser using a needle prick. Unlike the surgical procedure, no skin tissue is removed. In this process, an optic fiber laser is inserted through the hole created by the needle prick.

The laser liquefies the fatty tissues which is then removed via a small cannula. You do not need to worry about any remaining fat because if any damaged fat tissue is not removed by the cannula, it resorbs and gets eliminated naturally within the next couple of months.

The procedure does not involve incision, hence recovery is relatively quick and takes around 3 to 5 days. During recovery, it is common to expect minor swelling and bruising. Regular application of cold compress can help to reduce swelling quicker.

The process is simple involving needle prick and is generally done under local anesthesia and/or IV sedation only, so side effects significantly less as compared to surgical options. The common side effects which include swelling, bruising, redness and pain can be easily managed post treatment.

Normally just 1 session is sufficient to correct mild eye bag condition. Patients with moderate eye bagging may require an additional session for better results.

Once the fatty eye bag is liquified and removed via a laser, the collagen activity of the region is enhanced. The stimulated collagen growth paves way for healing and elimination of any remaining fat. In most cases the results are long-lasting. However, the results rely on the following factors:

• Age of the patient
• Condition of the skin (texture)
• Structure of bone
• Presence of underlying disease (metabolic disease, etc.)

It must be noted that the procedure will only help impart a younger and fresher look, but it cannot stop the eye (muscles and skin) from growing old.

No. The procedure leaves only a tiny needle prick, and there are no stitches involved. Therefore, there is no scar formation whatsoever. The healing of the puncture created by the needle prick is akin to an injection.

As there are no stitches involved, the healing and recovery is quick. There may be some swelling and bruising, but patents generally do not experience much pain after the procedure. In most cases people can see results within a few days and can get back to work within 3 to 4 days.

To speed up the process of recovery you can follow these steps:

• Apply ice packs to the treated area
• Keep your head elevated while resting
• Restrain from carrying out hectic activities (sports and weightlifting, etc.) for at least two to three weeks

You can shower the next day after the procedure. You can use shampoo and bath as per normal. However, avoid long baths, steam rooms and saunas as that may affect the healing process. After showers, do pat the under eye area dry with a clean cloth. It is recommended that you avoid rubbing the under eye area for at least a week.

You can apply makeup two to three days from the procedure. You might want to conceal any bruising or redness with a concealer. However, do avoid vigorous rubbing motion.

Though the procedure does not involve any surgical intervention, taking care is beneficial for the patient. Extreme sports such as football, soccer, hockey, etc. carry a greater risk of injury (especially facial injury). For patients who have undergone eye bag removal (surgical or non-surgical), a facial injury is the last thing they would want to happen.

In addition to the injury risk, vigorous exercise and sports put strain on the treated area. This added strain can lead to abnormal and delayed healing. Therefore, hectic sports and exercises (weightlifting and yoga) are usually prohibited for at least a week. You are recommended to check with the surgeon before resuming these activities. However, you can resume light exercises such as stretching and strolling which helps to improve blood circulation and speed up recovery.

No. Even though it is a small procedure, you are still advised to abstain from driving right after the procedure. In general, the plastic surgeon suggests you come with a relative/friend who can drive you back home. Or you can hire a taxi back. You can resume driving from the next day.