The most common type of eyelid surgery, is done through incisions following the natural lines of your eyelids. The surgeon makes the incision and then separates the skin from the underlying tissue to remove the excess fat, skin, and muscle. Sutures are then placed in the upper eyelids to close the incisions. The lower lids may not require sutures, depending upon the technique used. The procedure usually takes about two hours if both upper and lower eyelids are done together.