Let them know if you aren't. Both cosmetic eyelid surgery and laser skin resurfacing are generally performed under local anesthesia. Occasionally you will feel some pressure or some touching sensation, but normally the local anesthetic numbs the area and prevents pain. With a good surgeon and a good anesthesiologist, you won't have to worry. Most of the time your eyelid is positioned where it should be without your help.
Most patients keep their eyes closed.
Normally, the plastic or stainless steel contact lenses that are used to protect the eye and block bright lights also block your sight as well, so that you are not alarmed by large, sharp instruments passing by. Laser surgery, or the cutting of tissues with a very fine beam of light, is new technology for eyelid surgery and facial resurfacing. With eyelid surgery, it usually results in less swelling, bruising and quicker healing. Resurfacing tends to take a little longer to heal, but the results are much better than with collagen injections, dermabrasion or chemical peels. If your surgery is to correct a functional problem, then your insurance should cover the cost.