Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a procedure used to correct sagging or droopy eyelids. It can improve your appearance and also help with vision problems caused by drooping eyelids. But, if you’re considering eyelid surgery, one of the biggest questions on your mind may be whether or not medical insurance will cover the cost. In this blog post, we will explore when medical insurance will pay for the procedure, along with other factors that could impact your overall cost.
What is eyelid surgery?
Most people think of cosmetic surgery when they hear the word “eyelid surgery.” However, there is another type of eyelid surgery that is done for medical reasons. This type of eyelid surgery is called “blepharoplasty,” and it is usually performed to correct a functional problem with the eyelids.
There are two main types of blepharoplasty: upper eyelid surgery and lower eyelid surgery. Upper eyelid surgery is done to correct drooping upper eyelids that can obstruct vision. Lower eyelid surgery is done to correct “bags” under the eyes or to tighten loose skin around the lower eyelids.
Blepharoplasty can be performed for either cosmetic or medical reasons, or both. If the procedure is being done for cosmetic reasons, it is usually considered elective surgery and therefore will not be covered by insurance. If the procedure is being done for medical reasons, such as to improve vision, it may be covered by insurance.
Who is a candidate for eyelid surgery?
There are several reasons why someone might want to get eyelid surgery. One reason is for medical purposes. If a person has droopy eyelids that are causing vision problems, then insurance will most likely cover the cost of surgery. Another common reason people get eyelid surgery is for cosmetic purposes. In this case, insurance will not usually pay for the surgery.
Those considering getting eyelid surgery should consult with a board certified ophthalmologist or plastic surgeon to see if they are good candidates for the procedure. There are certain medical conditions that can make someone a poor candidate for eyelid surgery. These include dry eyes, glaucoma, and severe allergies. People with these conditions may still be able to get the surgery, but it is important to talk to a doctor first to make sure.
How much does eyelid surgery cost?
The cost of eyelid surgery can vary greatly depending on the surgeon, the location, and the extent of the procedure. In general, however, eyelid surgery typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000.
Some insurance companies may cover some or all of the cost of eyelid surgery if it is deemed medically necessary. For example, if the surgery is being performed to correct a vision problem caused by drooping eyelids, insurance may cover it. However, if the surgery is being done for cosmetic reasons, insurance is unlikely to pay for it.
If you are considering eyelid surgery, be sure to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to get an estimate of the cost.
How to know if your insurance will cover the surgery
There are a few things you can do to figure out if your insurance policy will cover eyelid surgery. First, you should check with your insurance provider to see if they list blepharoplasty as a covered procedure. If they don’t, you can ask them for a detailed explanation of why not.
You can also look through your policy’s fine print to see if there are any exceptions or clauses that would allow for coverage of the surgery. Finally, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare attorney or financial advisor to get a professional opinion on whether or not your insurance will pay for eyelid surgery.
What are the risks and side effects of eyelid surgery?
There are several risks and side effects associated with eyelid surgery. The most common risks include infection, bleeding, and bruising. Other less common risks include vision problems, scarring, and skin death.
Most people experience some bruising and swelling after surgery, which usually lasts for a few weeks. Some people also experience temporary dryness of the eyes or difficulty closing the eyelids. These side effects typically resolve on their own within a few weeks.
In rare cases, more serious complications can occur. These include vision loss, severe scarring, or skin death. If you experience any of these complications, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
Eyelid surgery, like any other cosmetic procedure, is not always covered by medical insurance. When considering eyelid surgery, you should weigh the potential benefits against the costs and decide for yourself if it is worth pursuing or not.
It’s important to remember that there are many factors that determine whether or not your insurance will cover this specific procedure, including but not limited to pre-existing conditions and individual plan coverage. Ultimately, it is best practice to consult with your doctor and/or an insurance professional before making a decision on undergoing eyelid surgery.
