Eyelid Surgery Cost
Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to rejuvenate the eye area by removing excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat from the upper or lower eyelids. It’s commonly sought after to address sagging, puffiness, and drooping around the eyes that can make us look older or perpetually tired.
If you’re considering eyelid surgery, a major question on your mind may be, “How much does eyelid surgery cost?” Here’s a detailed look at what goes into the cost of blepharoplasty, both in the U.S. and Texas, as well as some additional factors that influence the total cost, such as insurance coverage, revision surgery, and financing options.
What is the Average Cost of Eyelid Surgery?
In the United States, the average cost of eyelid surgery can range from $3,000 to $6,000 per eyelid area, with prices depending on the specific procedure and location. If you’re having both upper and lower eyelid surgery, the cost can range from $6,000 to $10,000. In Texas, costs are similar, although the lower cost of living and healthcare expenses in the state may offer a bit of savings compared to areas like New York or California.
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Upper Blepharoplasty: On average, the cost for upper eyelid surgery in Texas is between $3,500 and $5,500. This can vary widely depending on whether the surgery is performed in an office setting under local anesthesia or in a surgical center with additional fees for general anesthesia.
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Lower Blepharoplasty: Lower eyelid surgery tends to be more complex and is generally done under general anesthesia. In Texas, the cost for lower blepharoplasty usually falls between $4,500 and $6,500.
If both upper and lower eyelid procedures are performed together, the total cost can vary from $8,000 to $12,000 depending on the specifics of your case and the experience of the surgeon.
What Goes Into the Cost of Eyelid Surgery?
Several factors contribute to the total cost of eyelid surgery:
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Surgeon’s Fee: This is based on the surgeon’s experience, expertise, and reputation. More skilled and experienced surgeons may charge more due to the quality and safety they provide.
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Anesthesia Fees: Upper blepharoplasty can often be done under local anesthesia in the office, which can help save on anesthesia and surgical facility costs. Lower eyelid surgery typically requires general anesthesia due to its complexity, which adds to the overall cost.
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Facility Fees: If the procedure is performed in a surgical center or hospital, there are often additional facility fees. These fees cover the cost of the surgical suite, nursing staff, and any additional resources needed to perform the surgery in a safe and sterile environment.
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Pre- and Post-Operative Care: Some practices include the cost of pre-surgery consultations, post-surgery follow-ups, and any necessary aftercare in the overall price. This can help ensure you’re getting comprehensive care before, during, and after surgery.
Primary vs. Revision Blepharoplasty: Cost and Considerations
Primary blepharoplasty refers to the initial surgery, whereas revision blepharoplasty is a secondary procedure done to correct or enhance the results of a previous eyelid surgery. Revision blepharoplasty is generally more complex, often requiring additional techniques to address scar tissue, overcorrection, undercorrection, or asymmetry from the initial surgery.
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Primary Blepharoplasty: For most patients, primary blepharoplasty provides satisfying, natural-looking results. This surgery is typically less expensive, as there’s less complexity involved.
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Revision Blepharoplasty: Revision eyelid surgery can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity of the correction required. The need for revision surgery may arise for various reasons, including:
- Excess skin removal or inadequate skin removal from the first surgery
- Visible scars or deformities that were not adequately addressed
- Irregularities such as asymmetry, hollowing, or “pulled down” lower eyelids (ectropion)
Revision surgery is typically more expensive due to the complexity and skill required to work around existing surgical alterations and scar tissue. It’s important to choose an experienced surgeon with expertise in revision procedures, as these cases require a high level of precision.
Insurance Coverage for Eyelid Surgery
Whether insurance will cover the cost of blepharoplasty depends on whether the procedure is considered medically necessary. If excess upper eyelid skin is impairing vision or causing discomfort, insurance may cover the procedure. In these cases, medical documentation and specific vision tests are required to prove the need for functional improvement.
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Medical Necessity for Upper Blepharoplasty: To qualify for insurance coverage, most insurers require documentation that your upper eyelids are obstructing your vision or causing other functional issues, such as eye strain or difficulty reading.
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Requirements for Coverage: If you meet these criteria, insurance may cover all or part of the procedure. Saxon MD does not accept insurance, but we’re happy to provide you with all the necessary documentation to submit a claim for reimbursement.
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Lower Blepharoplasty: Insurance generally does not cover lower blepharoplasty, as this procedure is almost always considered cosmetic.
Financing Options for Eyelid Surgery
If insurance doesn’t cover your eyelid surgery or you’re considering a cosmetic blepharoplasty, financing can be a helpful option. At Saxon MD, we offer a range of financing options to make eyelid surgery more accessible:
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Cherry: Cherry provides flexible financing options with quick approvals, allowing patients to pay for their procedure over time with manageable payments.
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PatientFi: PatientFi is another popular financing option that offers low monthly payments for cosmetic procedures, with various payment terms to fit your budget.
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Alphaeon Credit: Alphaeon Credit is a medical credit card specifically for elective procedures, offering payment plans with no interest if paid within the promotional period.
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CareCredit: CareCredit is widely accepted for medical financing and offers a range of payment plans, including short-term, interest-free options, as well as extended payment terms.
These financing options can make it easier to budget for your surgery, allowing you to pay for your procedure over time rather than covering the full cost upfront.
Why Choose Dr. Sarah Saxon for Your Eyelid Surgery?
Choosing the right surgeon for your eyelid surgery is essential for achieving the best possible outcome. Dr. Sarah Saxon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with specialized experience in eyelid surgery and facial aesthetics. She has extensive training and experience in blepharoplasty and is known for her precise, detail-oriented approach to eyelid aesthetics. Her knowledge of facial anatomy allows her to deliver beautiful, natural results that align with each patient’s unique facial structure.
Schedule Your Eyelid Surgery Consultation at Saxon MD
Eyelid surgery can be an excellent investment for those seeking to enhance their appearance and confidence, with long-lasting results that can truly brighten and rejuvenate your look. Whether you’re interested in a primary blepharoplasty or a complex revision, understanding the costs, factors that influence pricing, and available financing options can help make the process more affordable and manageable.
If you’d like to learn more about eyelid surgery or schedule a consultation with Dr. Saxon in our Austin or Dallas office, please reach out to Saxon MD. We’re here to guide you through each step of the process and ensure that your journey to a refreshed, youthful look is as smooth and rewarding as possible.