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Blepharoplasty – Who is a Cosmetic vs. Insurance Candidate?

A blepharoplasty is a most commonly considered surgery of the eyelid. This is considered an upper blepharoplasty. A lower blepharoplasty describes surgery for the area that is beneath the eyelid that can appear puffy. Patients are often concerned with the appearance of a drooping eyelid. Many ask Dr. Seify if their insurance will cover the cost of their upper blepharoplasty. While it may seem like a good idea to have insurance cover the cost of surgery is important for patients understand that insurance coverage is for procedures that are deemed medically necessary. In the case of blepharoplasty, a patient must be able to prove that their vision is affected by the loose and lax skin on the eyelids. Depending upon the insurance company, they may require a report from the ophthalmologist who has examined the patient and verified that their vision is negatively affected. Dr. Seify explains that having blepharoplasty performed can dramatically improve a patient’s vision as well as overall appearance. Droopy eyelids tend to make the person look sleepy and older. Most patients can have this procedure performed on an outpatient basis and find the procedure to have only mild discomfort following surgery. Dr. Seify cautions patients that although the procedure is popular, all surgeons are not created equal when performing the procedure. Blepharoplasty revision surgery can be not only costly but also limits the surgeon who is making attempts to correct the original blepharoplasty procedure.  So, choose your surgeon wisely. It is imperative that patients select a board-certified plastic surgeon that is well-versed in the blepharoplasty procedure. Patients who are considering submitting the procedure to their insurance company must also be prepared to provide supporting documentation if necessary. Dr. Seify encourages patients who are considering blepharoplasty to contact the office and schedule a consultation.