A brow lift is a surgical procedure that can address visible changes in the upper third of the face. It involves adjusting the forehead tissues to reposition low or uneven brows and smoothing the skin to minimise the appearance of wrinkles.
Before undergoing any surgery, it is important to understand the details involved. One consideration is the brow lift cost, which varies from person to person. We will look at the components that may be included in the total price, the variables that can affect it, and why a consultation with Dr Ellis Choy in Sydney is the most accurate way to receive a quote specific to your situation.
What Is Included in the Cost of Brow Lift Surgery?
The cost of a brow lift includes more than just the surgery itself. Many separate fees contribute to the total, and they can include everything from consultation costs to the costs that come with your recovery. These components include:
Surgeon’s Fee
This fee covers the surgeon’s time, skill and experience in performing brow lift surgery. It can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and the techniques involved. Because fee structures differ between surgeons, it is important to confirm exactly what is included.
Hospital and Theatre Fees
These are any fees that are charged by the facility where your brow lift takes place. It can account for the use of the operating theatre, nursing staff, equipment and supplies. Some brow lifts are performed in a surgical facility while others are performed in accredited hospitals, and this can also affect the price. If there is an overnight stay for a more complex procedure, this is included in the cost as well.
Anaesthesia Fees
Brow lifts involve the cooperation of the surgeon and a qualified anaesthetist. The anaesthetist is responsible for administering your anaesthesia and monitoring you throughout the surgery. General anaesthesia, which may be used for your brow lift, is more expensive than local anaesthesia. Other factors that may impact your anaesthesia fees are how long your procedure is and the experience of the anaesthetist. These fees may be billed separately from the surgery itself.
Consultation Fees
The price of your consultation and any other appointments is also separate from the surgery itself. Dr Choy charges $350 per consultation. With every consultation, you will get a full assessment of your suitability for the procedure. You can also plan for the cost of follow-up appointments and any other appointments needed during the planning and recovery process.
Surgical Garments or Medication
You should plan to budget for any surgical garments or medications that you need after your surgery. With a brow lift, you may need to use a head wrap after the surgery, and you will need cold compresses and pain medications. We can help you factor these in as part of the cost of your brow lift.
Does the Type of Brow Lift Affect the Cost?
- Endoscopic Brow Lift: This type of brow lift uses small incisions hidden in the hairline and a thin instrument with a camera that guides the adjustments. The technology used may make this type of surgery more expensive, but it may come with shorter downtime.
- Coronal Brow Lift: This traditional technique involves a longer incision from ear to ear across the scalp. It is more invasive and may take longer to perform. The additional surgical time and recovery may factor into the overall cost.
- Temporal (Lateral) Brow Lift: The temporal brow lift uses shorter incisions in the hairline of the temples to lift the outer portion of the brow. This type of brow lift may cost less than a traditional brow lift.
- Direct Brow Lift: This type of brow lift can be good for treating forehead wrinkles, but it can result in more noticeable scars. In some cases, this method may also cost less than a traditional brow lift because it is less invasive.
Other Factors That Influence the Cost of Brow Lift Surgery
Complexity of the Case
The scope and complexity of the procedure can impact the total eye brow lift cost. Factors can include the degree of tissue laxity, asymmetry and whether the brow lift is combined with other procedures. More complex cases require longer operating times and additional planning, leading to higher overall fees.
Geographic Location
The price for surgical procedures varies by region because of differences in facility costs, local demand and standard pricing practices. Costs may be higher in metropolitan areas like Sydney because of access to accredited surgical facilities and other factors.
Surgeon Experience and Qualifications
A surgeon’s training, background and years of experience will affect their fees. Those with more experience or specific training in brow lifts will charge more than those who are earlier in their careers. It is important to weigh experience and qualifications when comparing costs.
Is Brow Lift Surgery Covered by Medicare?
In most cases, a brow lift is considered an elective surgery, which means it is not covered under Medicare. Medicare only provides coverage for procedures that meet strict medical criteria under the Medicare Benefits Schedule. In rare cases, a brow lift may qualify if it is reconstructive and addresses a documented functional issue.
What Are the Medicare Item Numbers Relevant for Brow Lift Surgery?
The following Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) item code may apply in specific medical circumstances for brow lift surgery in Australia:
For Direct Brow Lift in Functional or Paretic Cases
Medicare item number: 42872
To qualify, you must meet both of the following conditions:
- Vision is obstructed, as shown by upper eyelid skin resting on the eyelashes in a neutral, forward-facing gaze.
- Photographic evidence demonstrating the clinical need for the procedure is documented in the patient notes.
What Is the Average Cost of a Brow Lift in Sydney?
The cost of a brow lift in Sydney typically ranges from $9,000 to $15,000 when accounting for the surgeon, anaesthetist, and hospital fees. The surgeon’s fee alone generally falls between $6,000 and $10,000. These figures are similar to the pricing of a lower eyelid surgery. These are average costs only. When you come for your consultation, we will provide a more accurate quote.
Meet With Dr Ellis Choy to Learn More About Brow Lift Costs
Understanding the full scope of brow lift surgery means being informed about your surgical options, recovery, risks and the expected brow lift price. During your consultation with Dr Ellis Choy, you can review all of the details about your procedure and get a cost estimate based on all of the factors mentioned above.
To schedule your consultation, call us on 02 8962 9388 or submit an enquiry through our website. We welcome patients from Sydney and across Australia who are considering brow lift surgery.
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