Eyelid Lift Surgery and Costs

Blepharoplasty, or eye lid lift surgery, is a cosmetic procedure in which the upper or lower eyelids are surgically improved to enhance the appearance of the eyes.

Also known as eye lift surgery, this procedure is extremely effective at correcting many problems such as droopy eyes, puffiness, bags under the eyes and the constant look of being worn and tired.

As with many other facial plastic surgeries, an eyelid lift is normally performed at the same time as a brow lift or face lift.

How is Eyelid Lift Surgery performed?

There are two different eyelid lift procedures; the upper eye lid lift and the lower eye lid lift. Here is a quick look at how each procedure is performed.

1. Upper Eyelid Lift – Anesthesia of some form will be administered and then your surgeon will start by marking the creases and lines of the lids. This is done so that any scarring is on the natural folds of the eyelids and is kept at a minimum. The incisions are made along these lines and all the excess fat and skin is removed. The procedure is completed by the surgeon closing the incisions with very fine sutures, which also helps to minimize scarring.
2. Lower Eyelid Lift – This eye lift surgery is exactly the same as the upper eyelid lift procedure. The only difference is the location of the incision. During this procedure, the incision is made along the lash line, in the smile creases in the lower eye lid, or inside the lower eye lid.

The entire procedure can take between one and two hours.

Am I a good candidate for eyelid lift surgery?

People who are considering eyelid lift surgery should meet the following requirements:

• Be physically and mentally stable.
• Don’t have any circulatory, vision, or any other serious medical conditions.
• Have enough excess skin and/or fat to be removed.
• Have realistic expectations about the surgery and the results.

Additionally, any person seeking this type of surgery should get evaluated by an ophthalmologist to ensure that there are no underlying vision or eye problems.

How much does an eyelid lift cost?

Eye lift surgery is one of the least costly facial plastic surgeries on the market ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 for both the upper and lower procedure.

The average surgeon’s fee for this type of surgery is approximately $2,480. The remainder of the cost is divided up among the anesthesiologist and the office rental fee.

There may be added expenses for any necessary follow up visits. Of course, these figures are just estimates and prices will vary by location and surgeon.

What can I expect during recovery and what are the risks?

The risks associated with eye lift surgery are rare and not too serious. The major risk lies in not choosing a qualified or experienced plastic surgeon.

Otherwise, the only risks are swelling, bruising, and dry eyes.

Your surgeon will close the incision area with tiny stitches that can be removed between three and five days after the surgery.

You will be required to clean the eyes daily and use prescribed eye drops or ointment to prevent the eyes from drying out. In some instances, tiny sterile bandages may be applied to the eye area; however, it is not required to keep the eyes covered.

It is important though to avoid certain activities and environments to prevent any possible infections. Other than that, some swelling, bruising, and discomfort is normal.

Your surgeon will recommend you use cold compresses, pain medication, and elevating you head while lying down to combat these problems.

How do I find an eyelid lift surgeon?

The eyes are a delicate part of the body and require extra care. Therefore, choosing a highly qualified eye lift surgeon is of the utmost importance.

The best place to start your search is with an ophthalmologist.

Any referrals you receive from them should then be checked for their credentials with the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

Always schedule a consultation to ask any questions you may have and to get clarification on the actual procedure.