When loose skin is limiting your sight, your insurance might cover some of your blepharoplasty. Coverage typically requires documentation from an eye care professional confirming the visual impairment. Our team can help you gather the visual field testing and photos your insurance provider may require before submitting a claim.

No. Blepharoplasty is designed to remove excess skin, fat, and muscle rather than to smooth fine lines. Patients concerned about wrinkles or crow’s feet are often better suited to a brow lift, facelift, or injectables, such as Botox. Dr. Shumway frequently combines these treatments with an eyelid lift so patients can address both the sagging and the surrounding fine lines in one coordinated plan.

Nonsurgical options can offer mild improvement, but they are generally less effective than surgery for moderate-to-severe loose or sagging eyelid skin. For patients who aren’t ready for surgery, Dr. Shumway can recommend a nonsurgical approach as a starting point and revisit surgical options down the road.

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin, fat, or muscle from the upper and/or lower eyelids to reduce puffiness and sagging. It can be performed on the upper lids, lower lids, or both, depending on your specific concerns and anatomy.

Good candidates are in good general health, have realistic expectations, and are dealing with sagging skin, drooping eyelids that obstruct vision, or a general desire for a more youthful appearance. A consultation with Dr. Shumway is the best way to determine whether you’re a candidate and which technique will give you the most natural-looking results.

Patients typically enjoy a more youthful appearance, reduced puffiness, improved vision when applicable, a smoother eye contour, and greater confidence in their appearance. Many patients also report that people comment they look more rested or less tired, even when they haven’t mentioned having surgery.

Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can support healing and skin quality following surgery for some patients. Dr. Shumway can discuss whether BHRT may be a good complement to your recovery plan during your consultation.

Upper eyelid incisions are placed within the natural eyelid crease, while lower eyelid incisions are placed just below the lash line or inside the lid. The procedure generally takes 1 to 2 hours and can be performed under local or general anesthesia. Dr. Shumway will recommend the anesthesia option that best fits your procedure plan and comfort level.

Swelling and bruising typically last 1 to 2 weeks, with stitches removed after 5 to 7 days. Final results continue to refine for up to six months. Most patients feel comfortable in social settings again within about two weeks once the initial swelling and bruising have subsided.

As with any surgery, risks can include infection, bleeding, scarring, dry eyes or irritation, asymmetry, and, rarely, difficulty fully closing the eyes. Dr. Shumway will review your personal risk factors in detail during your consultation, so you know exactly what to expect.

Incisions are usually well-hidden in the natural folds of the eyelids, and any resulting scars typically fade significantly over time. Most patients find their scars are difficult to notice even up close within several months of surgery.

Results generally last for many years. While the natural aging process will continue, some patients choose a touch-up procedure later on. Maintaining good skin care and sun protection can also help extend the appearance of your results over time.

Yes! Eyelid surgery is often paired with other cosmetic procedures, such as facelift, brow lift, laser resurfacing, Botox, or dermal fillers, for a more comprehensive rejuvenation. Combining procedures can also mean a single recovery period rather than multiple separate periods of downtime.

On average, the cost typically ranges from $5,000 to $12,000, though insurance may help cover the cost if the procedure is medically necessary. Your exact cost will depend on whether you need upper surgery, lower surgery, or both, which Dr. Shumway will outline clearly during your consultation.

No. Blepharoplasty does not typically address dark circles, though fillers, laser treatments, or topical treatments tend to be better suited for that concern. Dr. Shumway can recommend complementary treatments if dark circles are one of your concerns alongside sagging skin.

Yes. Upper and lower eyelid surgery can be performed together in the same procedure if needed. Many patients prefer this approach since it means only one recovery period for both areas.

Patients are asked to avoid smoking and alcohol for two weeks prior to surgery, stop taking blood thinners as directed, and arrange for transportation to and from their procedure. Dr. Shumway’s team will provide a complete pre-operative checklist during your consultation to help you prepare with confidence.

Upper eyelid surgery primarily addresses sagging skin, while lower eyelid surgery focuses on puffiness and under-eye bags. Many patients benefit from both procedures together for a more balanced, refreshed look around the entire eye.