Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a popular plastic surgery procedure that can alter the appearance of the eyes and address concerns such as loose skin, excess fat and puffiness around the eyelids. While most eyelid surgeries are cosmetic, blepharoplasty can also improve functional concerns, such as skin irritation or the loss of peripheral vision due to drooping upper eyelid skin.
Whether you’re considering upper or lower eyelid surgery or a combination of the two, it’s essential to inform yourself the costs involved. Knowing what to expect in terms of price can help you prepare for the procedure and determine whether it’s a feasible option for you.
Below, we explore some of the most common questions about the cost of eyelid surgery in Sydney. Knowledge truly is power, and we want you to feel empowered to make the best decision for your needs.
What Are the General Costs Involved in Plastic Surgery?
While the specific costs of each procedure may vary, some common elements are typically included in the total price. These include:
Surgeon’s Fee
The surgeon’s fee generally includes preoperative care, the procedure itself and postoperative care. The surgeon’s fee may vary based on their qualifications, experience and expertise in certain procedures, as well as their geographic location and popularity.
Anaesthetist’s Fee
The fee for anaesthesia may vary depending on the type of anaesthesia used, with general anesthesia typically costing more than local or regional anesthesia. The cost of the anesthesia may also depend on the anaesthetist’s level of education, training and experience.
Surgeon’s Assistant’s Fee
In some cases, a surgeon’s assistant may be necessary for longer or more complex procedures. This fee will add to the total cost of the surgery.
Hospital and Facility Fees
Fees for the use of a hospital or other medical facility may vary depending on the location, the duration of the procedure and whether an overnight stay is required. In the case of blepharoplasty, the procedure can sometimes be performed in the surgeon’s office.
Medications
Preoperative and/or postoperative medications may be necessary and included in the cost of the surgery.
Recovery Garments and Supplies
Some procedures require special garments, dressings or other supplies as part of the healing process.
How Does the Type of Blepharoplasty Affect the Cost?
One of the most important considerations is the type of eyelid surgery you wish to undergo. Dr Choy offers several different types of blepharoplasty, each of which can be customised to your needs:
Upper Eyelid Surgery
Upper eyelid surgery removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelid area. This is the most common type of blepharoplasty, and often the least expensive.
Lower Eyelid Surgery
Lower eyelid surgery addresses puffiness and bags under the eyes by removing excess fat and tightening the skin. The cost for this eyelid surgery is higher than the cost of upper blepharoplasty.
Combination Eyelid Surgery
Some patients opt for a combination of upper and lower eyelid surgery, which can be performed in a single procedure. This typically costs more than having either procedure individually.
Double Eyelid Surgery
This procedure is popular amongst Asian patients and is designed to create a crease in the upper eyelid. The cost for double eyelid surgery can be similar to upper eyelid surgery, but may range higher due to the specialised nature of the procedure.
Does Medicare Cover Blepharoplasty in Australia?
In most cases, eyelid surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure and is therefore not covered by Medicare.
However, there are some situations where Medicare may provide coverage for blepharoplasty. For instance, if excess skin and fat around your eyelids are causing visual impairment or other significant functional issues, the procedure may be deemed medically necessary and qualify for partial coverage by Medicare.
To be eligible, the procedure must be performed by a specialist plastic surgeon who is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and who is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS), like Dr Choy. The surgeon must provide evidence that the procedure is medically necessary and not solely for cosmetic purposes.
What Medicare Item Numbers Are Relevant for Eyelid Surgery?
The following MBS item codes may be applicable for blepharoplasty:
For Upper Eyelid Surgery
Medicare item number 45617
To qualify, you must:
- Have one of six conditions outlined in the Medicare Benefits Schedule
- Have photographic and/or diagnostic imaging evidence documenting the condition
For Lower Eyelid Surgery
Medicare item number 45620
To qualify, you must:
- Meet one of two qualifying conditions outlined in the Medicare Benefits Schedule
- Have photographic and/or diagnostic imaging evidence demonstrating the clinical need for the procedure
Does Private Health Insurance Cover Eyelid Surgery in Australia?
Private health insurance may offer coverage for eyelid surgery, provided you qualify for one of the Medicare item numbers above. However, it is unlikely that the full cost of the procedure will be covered, so you should be prepared to pay some out-of-pocket expenses.
Review your policy documents or speak directly with your insurer to confirm what coverage may be available in your specific case.
The Final Tally: What Is the Cost of Eyelid Surgery in Sydney?
The cost of blepharoplasty in Sydney depends significantly on the type of surgery you choose.
Upper eyelid surgery can range from $6,000-$8,000. Procedures may fall above the high end of this range if they are done in hospital with an anaesthetist or if they are a more complex procedure (e.g. ptosis correction or a revision surgery).
Lower eyelid surgery typically ranges from $12,000-$14,000. This fee includes the surgeon, anaesthesia and hospital.
For upper and lower eyelid surgery combined, the typical range is $15,000-$20,000. This procedure is always done in hospital and may include an overnight stay.
Ultimately, the price you pay for your eyelid surgery will depend on a variety of factors, including the nature of the procedure (cosmetic or functional), the complexity of the surgery, your surgeon’s location and experience, and more.
Please keep in mind the ranges above are generalised estimates. A one-on-one consultation with Dr Choy is required to determine your candidacy for eyelid surgery and the cost of your procedure. If you choose to move forward, you will receive a Cost/Payment Schedule that details all costs associated with your proposed blepharoplasty procedure.
Learn how to choose a qualified specialist plastic surgeon in Sydney
Meet With Dr Ellis Choy to Discuss Your Blepharoplasty
We hope this has helped you understand the general costs involved in eyelid surgery and the factors that may affect those costs. As with any surgical procedure, it is important to carefully consider the financial investment and speak with a qualified surgeon about your options.
If you are interested in learning more about eyelid surgery in Sydney or would like a personalised quote, we encourage you to book a consultation with specialist plastic surgeon Dr Ellis Choy. During this initial appointment, you will have the opportunity to discuss the procedure, the costs involved and any other questions or concerns you may have.
Please call 02 8962 9388 or complete this form to request your consultation with Dr Choy. We look forward to working with you.
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