Average eyelid surgery cost

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, costs $3,200 to $9,250 depending on the type of procedure, your surgeon's experience, and where you live. The national average cost is approximately $4,451, though this figure primarily covers the surgeon's fee and may not include anesthesia, facility charges, or prescription medications.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average surgeon's fee is $3,359 for upper blepharoplasty and $3,876 for lower blepharoplasty. These figures do not account for anesthesia fees, operating room costs, prescriptions, or pre-operative medical tests.

Blepharoplasty consistently ranks as one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries for both men and women. The procedure removes excess skin, fat, and muscle around the eyelids to restore a more youthful, refreshed appearance or to improve impaired peripheral vision.

Cost by type of procedure

The total cost of eyelid surgery depends heavily on whether you're having upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery, or both. Each procedure targets different concerns and involves different levels of complexity, anesthesia requirements, and recovery timelines.

Upper blepharoplasty

Upper blepharoplasty targets excess skin and tissue on the upper eyelids. The procedure creates a more open, awake appearance and can improve peripheral vision in cases where drooping skin obstructs the visual field. Many patients undergo this procedure using only local anesthesia with oral sedation, which reduces the overall cost.

In New Jersey, upper eyelid surgery averages around $4,500, while national averages from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons place the surgeon's fee at approximately $3,359. Recovery typically takes one to two weeks for swelling and bruising to subside.

Lower blepharoplasty

Lower blepharoplasty addresses under-eye bags, wrinkles, and dark circles by removing or repositioning excess fat and tightening loose skin beneath the eyes. This procedure is considered strictly cosmetic and almost always requires general anesthesia, which adds to the total cost.

Surgeon fees for lower eyelid surgery start around $3,234 and can reach $8,005 or more. Recovery takes longer than upper blepharoplasty, with four to six weeks needed for swelling and bruising to fully resolve.

Combined upper and lower blepharoplasty

Having both upper and lower eyelid surgery performed together can offer a marginal decrease in overall price compared to scheduling them separately. Combining the procedures also means a single recovery period and more comprehensive, noticeable results. Expect to pay $6,000 to $9,250 for a combined procedure.

Cost by state

Geographic location plays a significant role in blepharoplasty pricing. Costs tend to be higher in states with higher costs of living, competitive markets, and metropolitan surgical centers. Below is a breakdown of average blepharoplasty costs across the United States.

The most expensive states for blepharoplasty include Utah ($4,982), New Hampshire ($4,752), and Connecticut ($4,714). The most affordable states include Wyoming ($3,989), Hawaii ($4,114), and Iowa ($4,134).

Factors that affect eyelid surgery cost

Several variables determine the final price of blepharoplasty. Understanding these factors helps you anticipate the total expense beyond the surgeon's quoted fee.

Surgeon's experience and credentials

The surgeon's fee represents the largest portion of blepharoplasty cost. Board-certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience and strong reputations typically charge more than newly certified surgeons. However, a surgeon's skill level directly affects the quality of results and the likelihood of complications.

When choosing a surgeon, prioritize board certification and a proven track record over the lowest price. Many plastic surgeons offer patient financing plans to make the procedure more accessible.

Anesthesia fees

Upper eyelid surgery often requires only local anesthesia with oral sedation, keeping anesthesia costs relatively low. Lower blepharoplasty, on the other hand, almost always requires general anesthesia, which can add $1,000 to $2,500 to the total cost.

Combined upper and lower procedures also require general anesthesia, further increasing the expense.

Facility fees

Where the procedure is performed affects cost. Hospitals and accredited surgical centers typically charge higher facility fees than in-office surgical suites. Some surgeons perform upper blepharoplasty in their own offices, which can help keep overall costs lower.

Procedure complexity

The complexity of your specific case influences pricing. Patients with significant excess skin, fat deposits, or muscle laxity may require more extensive surgery. Blepharoplasty is also frequently combined with complementary procedures like brow lifts, facelifts, or injectable fillers such as Botox, all of which add to the total cost.

Geographic location

Costs vary significantly by region. Surgeons in major metropolitan areas and states with higher costs of living charge more than those in smaller cities or rural areas. The difference can be $1,000 or more between the most and least expensive states.

Does insurance cover eyelid surgery?

Most health insurance plans do not cover cosmetic eyelid surgery or complications resulting from elective procedures. However, blepharoplasty may qualify for insurance coverage when it is deemed medically necessary.

When excess upper eyelid skin covers the eyelashes or obstructs peripheral vision, the surgery may be classified as medically necessary. Your doctor will typically need to perform a visual field exam to document the degree of vision impairment before submitting a claim to your insurance provider.

Lower blepharoplasty is considered strictly cosmetic and is not eligible for insurance coverage. Even when upper blepharoplasty is covered, you may still be responsible for copays, deductibles, or portions of the anesthesia and facility fees.

Recovery timeline and what to expect

Blepharoplasty recovery is relatively quick compared to other cosmetic procedures. Most patients return to normal activities within one to two weeks, though complete healing can take several months.

The first week

A responsible adult must drive you home after surgery. During the first 72 hours, limit your activity significantly. Avoid bending, lifting, and straining. Keep your head elevated at all times, including while sleeping.

Most patients take five to seven days off work. You will be unable to drive for several days following the procedure, so plan transportation for follow-up appointments in advance.

Weeks two through six

Avoid makeup and other cosmetic products around the eyes for approximately two weeks. Visible results begin appearing within several weeks, though lower blepharoplasty patients should expect a longer timeline for swelling to fully resolve.

When you follow your surgeon's aftercare instructions carefully, the recovery process is not typically painful. Both upper and lower blepharoplasty produce lasting results with minimal scarring.

How to prepare for eyelid surgery

Proper preparation ensures a smoother procedure and faster recovery. Your surgeon's office will provide specific instructions based on your medical history and the type of blepharoplasty planned.

Before undergoing eyelid surgery, you will receive a comprehensive eye exam to measure vision, eye pressure, and ocular surface health. This ensures your eyes are healthy enough for the procedure.

All pre-operative requirements, including lab testing and medical evaluations, must be completed within 30 days of your scheduled surgery. If you take blood thinners such as aspirin, plan to stop them approximately two weeks before the procedure. Discuss all medications with your doctor well in advance.

Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the surgical center. You will also need help at home during the first few days of recovery.

Frequently asked questions

Is eyelid surgery worth the cost?

Blepharoplasty delivers lasting, natural-looking results with a relatively short recovery period. The procedure can create a more youthful appearance, eliminate under-eye bags, and improve peripheral vision when sagging skin is obstructing the visual field. For many patients, the long-lasting results justify the investment.

Is blepharoplasty painful?

Most patients report minimal pain when they follow their surgeon's aftercare instructions. Local anesthesia or general anesthesia is used during the procedure, so you will not feel pain during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is typically manageable with prescribed medications.

What procedures are commonly combined with blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty is frequently combined with a brow lift, facelift, injectable fillers, or Botox to achieve a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation. Combining procedures can reduce overall costs compared to scheduling them separately, since you share anesthesia and facility fees across multiple treatments. Other popular facial cosmetic procedures include rhinoplasty and liposuction.

Are financing options available?

Many plastic surgeons offer patient financing plans for cosmetic eyelid surgery. Third-party medical financing companies such as CareCredit allow patients to spread the cost over monthly payments. Ask your surgeon's office about available payment options during your consultation.

How long do blepharoplasty results last?

Eyelid surgery results are long-lasting, often enduring for a decade or more. While the natural aging process continues after surgery, most patients enjoy a refreshed appearance for many years before considering a revision procedure. For patients also considering vision correction, eye surgery options like LASIK address different concerns than blepharoplasty.