Over time, it is normal to develop excess skin or fat deposits that accumulate around the eyelids. When this happens, many people notice the skin around the eyelids begins to sag or droop. A Blepharoplasty, or eye lift, can help restore the youthfulness of your eyelids. Here is everything you need to know about Blepharoplasty cost and recovery time.
What Blepharoplasty Treats
Over time, it is normal to develop excess skin or fat deposits around the eyelids. When this happens, many people notice the skin around the eyes begins to sag or droop. A blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, can help improve the appearance and function of the eyelids. Below is everything you need to know about blepharoplasty, including cost and recovery time.
What Blepharoplasty Treats
Blepharoplasty is a surgical eyelid procedure that addresses excess skin, muscle, and/or fat around the eyelids. It’s important to understand the two types of blepharoplasty: upper and lower. While both procedures can help create a more refreshed appearance, they address different concerns.
Upper Blepharoplasty
An upper blepharoplasty targets excess skin and tissue of the upper eyelids. This can give the appearance of a more open and awake eye and, in some cases, may also improve peripheral vision.
Lower Blepharoplasty
A lower blepharoplasty focuses on the area beneath the eyes. This procedure helps reduce or reposition excess fat and smooth under-eye puffiness, creating a more rested look.
Blepharoplasty Cost and Eligibility
Not sure if blepharoplasty is right for you? You may be a good candidate if:
- Drooping upper eyelids are impairing your vision
- You experience persistent under-eye puffiness or bags
- Heavy eyelids make it difficult to keep your eyes open
- You are seeking a more rested and youthful appearance
A good candidate for eyelid surgery is generally a healthy individual without significant medical or eye-related conditions.
Before undergoing eyelid surgery, you will receive a cosmetic eyelid evaluation. At Florida Eye Specialists, this includes a comprehensive eye exam to measure vision, eye pressure, and ocular surface health to ensure your eyes are healthy enough for surgery.
After discussing the procedure with one of our cosmetic surgeons, you will meet with a surgical coordinator to review available surgery dates, preoperative medical requirements, and the cost of a Blepharoplasty.
Keep in mind that insurance does not typically cover cosmetic surgery. On average, patients can expect a Blepharoplasty to cost around $3,200. However, if the puffiness or drooping is inhibiting your field of vision, the surgery may be deemed medically necessary. Your doctor may need to perform a visual field exam to determine if your upper eyelid is interfering with your vision.
How to Prepare for a Blepharoplasty Procedure
All pre-op requirements, including lab testing and medical evaluations, will need to take place within 30 days of your procedure. Your primary care doctor will provide you with instructions to follow in the weeks and days leading up to your appointment.
Patients taking blood thinners will want to discuss stopping these medications before their surgery. Typical blood thinners, such as Aspirin, are usually stopped two weeks before surgery. Other blood thinners may need to be adjusted differently. Discuss any medications being taken and their risks with your doctor several weeks before your surgery.
Be sure to make arrangements for missing work and enlist help at home. You will need a trusted person to drive you to and from the surgery center and during your post-operative appointments. You will be unable to drive for several days after surgery, so it’s important to plan accordingly in advance.
What to Expect During Blepharoplasty Recovery Time
Safety
A responsible adult will need to take you home after surgery. Before you leave, the nurses at the surgery center will review the aftercare instructions with you and this individual. In order to recover as best as possible, it is important to limit your activity for 72 hours after surgery.
Downtime
Patients should avoid bending, lifting, and straining during their recovery. Keeping the patient’s head elevated at all times is important during recovery. Most individuals are away from work for five to seven days. Avoid using makeup and other cosmetic products for approximately two weeks after surgery.
Results
Your results will appear within several weeks after surgery, but it can take several months for your body to heal completely. By following the instructions provided by the surgical center, the surgery and healing process is not typically painful.
Are you or a loved one considering a Blepharoplasty surgery? Our expert staff of cosmetic surgeons is here to help. Dr. David A. Kostick is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Schedule with our oculoplastics specialists today to discuss your surgical options.
About Florida Eye Specialists
Florida Eye Specialists is one of the largest multi-specialty ophthalmology private practices in Northeast Florida, with offices in Fernandina Beach, Gate Parkway/295, Mandarin, Northside, Ponte Vedra Beach, Riverside, San Marco, Southpoint, and St. Augustine. Florida Eye Specialists is your trusted eye doctor in the Jacksonville area. Schedule an appointment at one of our nine locations.