Double eyelid surgery can help improve a patient’s overall facial aesthetic. However, it is essential to understand the financial considerations associated with this procedure.
A thorough eye exam is the initial step, and it may involve measurements of the eyelids and tests to determine the production of tears. It might also include visual field testing to determine if the condition affects peripheral vision.
Cost
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, effectively addresses cosmetic and functional issues. Some people have puffy upper eyelids that create a shadow and interfere with vision, while others may struggle with applying eye makeup due to a lack of an upper eyelid crease. This cosmetic procedure can enhance your appearance and improve self-confidence. Still, discussing the risks and benefits with a qualified plastic surgeon before this procedure is essential.
Considering whether your insurance plan will cover the cost of double eyelid surgery. This is rare, but if you have a medically necessary reason for the surgery, it might be covered by your insurance provider.
Your ophthalmologist will consider your specific goals and needs when creating a cost estimate for your double eyelid surgery. This includes discussing your health history, such as circulation problems, glaucoma, or other health conditions, and any allergies or medications you take regularly.
The clinic’s location where you will receive your surgery should also be considered. This is because a clinic in an affluent neighborhood might charge more for its services than one in a less expensive area of NYC. You should also factor in any transportation costs you incur to reach the clinic before scheduling your appointment.
Insurance
Generally, eyelid surgery is considered cosmetic and is not covered by medical insurance. However, if the procedure addresses functional problems such as excess skin that can cause hooding or sagging of the upper eyelid, insurance may cover it. This is because blepharoplasty can improve the ability to see and alleviate pain or discomfort caused by sagging of the upper eyelid.
The surgeon will take standardized photos of your eyes and eyelids from different angles during the consultation to determine whether your insurance could cover the procedure. A visual field test will also need to be completed, a noninvasive way of testing peripheral vision that an ophthalmologist or other eye doctor usually does.
There are several ways that the surgeon can perform a double eyelid surgery, depending on the patient’s needs and anatomy. One option is the non-incision suture method, which involves making small holes in the eyelid and threading permanent sutures through these to create an eyelid crease. This is the least invasive form of this surgery and may be an excellent option for patients with only a bit of extra skin and not much fat to remove from the upper eyelids.
Another technique is full-incision double eyelid surgery, which involves making a full incision along the new crease and using removable sutures to hold the tissue in place during healing. This option works well for patients with significant amounts of excess skin and fat to remove from the upper eyelids.
Financing
It is crucial to determine the treatment’s cost and your available payment alternatives during your initial appointment. Discussing your surgeon’s qualifications, including education and training, is also essential. Choosing a board-certified surgeon will help you receive the best results possible.
Another consideration is the type of eyelid surgery you are undergoing. There are a few different techniques that can be used. Some procedures create a new crease, while others make an existing one more distinct. Incisional methods are generally considered more invasive, while non-incision techniques can result in less swelling and bruising.
The suture technique, or non-incision double eyelid surgery, became popular about 20 years ago. It is quick, less expensive than incisional methods, and does not leave any scars. It is ideal for patients who do not have any eyelid ptosis (drooping) or excess skin.
Once your procedure is complete, you will need to rest and recover. Some swelling is normal and will subside after a few days. Using an ointment prescribed by your doctor and avoiding direct sun exposure is also recommended.
If you cannot afford the cost of eyelid surgery at once, several financing options are available.
Location
Choosing an experienced and qualified surgeon is a good idea if you have eyelid surgery for cosmetic reasons. Choosing an inexperienced surgeon solely based on lower prices may result in undesirable results or complications.
The cost of double eyelid surgery will depend on various factors, including the type of procedure, the surgeon, and the location. Fairfield County plastic surgeon Dr. Passaretti tries to keep costs low by operating in his private facility but needs to be more careful regarding safety or technology. During a comprehensive consultation, he will provide an accurate treatment estimate and help you decide whether eyelid surgery suits you.
For patients who do not have a natural upper eyelid crease, blepharoplasty can help create one. This surgical technique uses sutures to mimic fibrous attachments naturally in the upper eyelids. The suture method is a non-incisional option that does not leave scars, but it is less resilient than the incisional technique and does not correct severe ptosis.
Incisional blepharoplasty is the traditional method used to create a double eyelid crease. The process takes approximately an hour to complete and is carried out under local anesthesia or twilight sedation. During this time, the surgeon will make an incision in the existing crease and remove excess skin, fat, and tissue. This will make the eyelid appear fuller and youthful.
