In order to know how much a blepharoplasty costs, it is important to understand that there is more than one type of blepharoplasty surgery. In fact, there are three types, including upper, lower, and combination blepharoplasty. Each procedure is unique and tailored to the patient, but in a number of cases, an additional procedure will be added to ensure the best results and will add additional costs as well as recovery time. 

The Cost of Upper Blepharoplasty (Upper Eyelid Surgery)

As people age, the eyelids may begin to droop and sag, causing not only eye irritation but obstructed vision. In these cases, upper blepharoplasty will alleviate these concerns, restoring vision and eliminating irritation. In other instances, upper blepharoplasty is performed as a cosmetic procedure to enhance the eyelids’ appearance. In both cases, upper blepharoplasty is a modification of the upper lids conducted by either removing or tightening the excess skin.

Patients can elect to have anesthesia or not, and are able to return home following the procedure. Although results will be immediate, final outcomes can be achieved in as little as one month.

An upper blepharoplasty is a customized procedure. As such, the surgeon will need to evaluate each patient and develop a plan of treatment to ensure the best results are achieved.

On average, the cost for the upper blepharoplasty is around $3,000. For many, the procedure, if deemed medically necessary, may be covered by health insurance.

The Cost of Lower Blepharoplasty (Lower Eyelid Surgery)

If the lower eyelids are of concern, then patients will greatly benefit from a lower blepharoplasty. This procedure centers around the sagging lower eyelids, which results from aging, lifestyle, anatomy, or genetics. The procedure removes the excess fat and skin and then tightens the skin. 

Typically, the lower blepharoplasty cost Newport Beach is considered a cosmetic procedure by health insurance providers. Because of this, patients will need to cover the costs, which can average to around $6,000. After the surgery, puffiness, bruising, and swelling may be present for at least three weeks, so taking some time off from work may be necessary. The final results will be clearly noticeable in three months.

The Cost of Combination Blepharoplasty

When individuals are in need of both upper and lower eyelid lifts (combination blepharoplasty), the surgeon will combine them as a single procedure. It is common for patients to have both sagging lower eyelids as well as droopy upper eyelids. For this reason, the combination procedure will be performed simultaneously so time and money are saved. On average, the combination blepharoplasty cost Beverly Hills will average approximately $4,500, with the complete results achieved within three months.

Factors Affecting the Cost of a Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)

The cost for the upper, lower, or combination blepharoplasty is determined by many variables and can vary among patients. When the factors are understood, patients can better understand how the cost of the procedure is impacted and, along with the surgeon’s guidance, can determine which procedure is best. Below are some of the factors affecting the cost of blepharoplasty. 

Combining the Blepharoplasty

Often when a cosmetic procedure is planned it is often combined with other complementary cosmetic procedures. When combining procedures, the overall cost may be a bit higher, but the time needed for recovery and other expenses will be considerably less. Procedures commonly paired with blepharoplasty include a forehead lift or brow lift.

Adding Anesthesia to a Blepharoplasty

When receiving an estimate for a blepharoplasty, the price for general anesthesia is usually not included. Typically, a local anesthetic will be used unless the patient requests general anesthesia to eliminate awareness. If general anesthesia is requested, there will be an additional cost.

Pre-Op and Post-Op Blepharoplasty Costs

Before the surgery date, the primary doctor will schedule a pre-op appointment to ensure there are no additional health concerns that could affect the outcome. During this pre-op appointment, blood work will be done to ensure safe and effective surgery is achieved. The pre-op appointment and lab tests will be separate charges from the estimated cost of the blepharoplasty. 

Post-op costs may involve the cost of prescription pain medications or antibiotics to take while recovering. Unless the procedure is medically necessary, patients will pay for these medications out of pocket. Either way, the medications will not be included in the surgery’s estimate.

Possible Hospital Admissions

If a complication develops, patients may be admitted to the hospital for treatment. Although complications are rare, there will be additional costs involved for hospital admission and subsequent care. 

When Insurance Will Cover Blepharoplasty Costs

Just like any other cosmetic surgery procedure, health insurance providers will not cover blepharoplasty unless extenuating circumstances determine it is medically necessary. In cases of medical necessity, insurance carriers will require a medical explanation from your doctor, photos of the eyelids, and evidence of visual impairment caused by the eyelids. 

A Medical Explanation from Your Doctor Writes a Note

For insurance to cover the cost of blepharoplasty, patients will need a letter from their doctor stating the medical necessity of the surgery to preserve their vision. 

Have Photos Taken

With the amount of benefits gained by having health insurance cover the blepharoplasty cost, patients will likely need to submit photographic evidence supporting the doctor’s letter of explanation. The doctor’s office will be able to take the photos needed to demonstrate the severity of the condition and the fact that it is medically necessary. 

Conduct Vision Tests

Having vision tests conducted will prove the vision is obstructed by excess skin and drooping lids. Submitting the tests alongside the letter and photos will help patients gain the approval of their health insurance carrier for a medically necessary blepharoplasty.  

Reducing your Blepharoplasty Costs

Choosing a local anesthetic as opposed to a general anesthetic can help reduce the overall cost for a blepharoplasty. It is also a good idea to give up tobacco products in order to avoid complications. Having procedures combined is also a money-saving measure when considering blepharoplasty. 

Here at Batniji Facial Plastic Surgery, we take the necessary steps to ensure your blepharoplasty is successful from beginning to completion. We offer payment plans to help you stay within your budget while ensuring your quality of life. 

When you are ready to get started, reach out to Batniji Facial Plastic Surgery to schedule your consultation.