Blepharoplasty

The fees associated with blepharoplasty include 1) surgeon’s fees, 2) anesthesia fees, and 3) facility fees. As Dr Yates has an in-office operating suite, the facility fee is minimal. This is a cost savings directly to the patient. For a list of the costs of common procedures performed by Dr. Yates click here.

Occasionally, drooping upper eyelids can cause problems with vision; alternatively, sagging lower lids can cause excessive tearing or dry eyes.

If these functional problems are documented by an eye doctor insurance may cover eyelid surgery.

Blepharoplasty can be performed under either general or local anesthesia, most cosmetic surgery patients choose the latter for financial reasons. Eyelid surgery is generally performed in the office operating room with or without IV sedation and takes one to two hours. The eyelid scars hide in the natural creases of the eyelids. A minor brow lift or mid-face elevation can be made through these same incisions to further accentuate the results.

Upper Eyelid Lift

The type of procedure used depends on the patients needs and goals. Generally, excess eyelid is removed with the resulting scar hiding perfectly within the eyelid crease. Generally fat is not removed in the upper eyelids as this can result in an aged, hollow appearance. There is a trend towards fat grafting in the upper eyelids.

Lower Eyelid Lift

The techniques for a lower blepharoplasty are even more diverse. The incision can be placed on the inside of the eyelid for access to the deep fat. This fat can be removed or reshaped as indicated. Significant loose skin usually requires a lower eyelid incision beneath the eyelashes. The structural support of the lower lid occasionally needs to be improved as well.

Small dressings will cover the incisions. Eyelid sutures will be left in place for 3-7 days. Cold compresses or ice will be placed for several days to limit swelling and bruising. You may experience temporary sensitivity to light or excessive tearing.

Click here for Dr. Yates blepharoplasty post-op instructions

For the first few days you will have mild to moderate pain which may require pain medications. After a day or two you will feel much better than you look. Moderate bruising and swelling may be present for approximately three weeks following eyelid surgery.

Dr Yates will thoroughly discuss the rare but potential risks at the time of your consultation. These generally include but are not limited to; bleeding, scarring, infection, asymmetry, and unhappiness with cosmetic result. Dr. Yates is experienced with eyelid surgery and provides service to the Salt Lake City Utah metro area.

Contact Dr. Yates office or feel free to email him any additional questions you may have.