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Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the physical appearance of the upper or lower eyelids.
As we age over time, the skin of the eyelids can become loose or saggy, creating folds that are bothersome and impair vision. For many, fatty deposits may develop causing our eyelids appear to appear puffy or enlarged. Additionally, “bags” develop under the eyes, and excess wrinkles and skin take over the lower eyelid. Whether you are considering eyelid surgery for cosmetic reasons or to improve functionality, this procedure can help correct each of these problems and rejuvenate the skin around your eyes.
If you are uncomfortable with your eyelids due to excessive skin, you may be a good candidate for a Belpharoplasty. It is important to note that your eyes should be "problem-free." The best way to determine if this procedure is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kuhlman-Wood or any board-certified Plastic Surgeon.
If you are a smoker, you will be required to quit for at least four (4) weeks prior to surgery and remain smoke free until your surgical results have been fully achieved. Smoking has been proven to interfere with the body’s naturally healing process. For your safety and to achieve the desired surgical outcome, Dr. Kuhlman-Wood screens for Nicotine prior to surgery.
During your initial consultation with Dr. Kuhlman-Wood, be prepared to discuss the following:
- What are your expectations
- What are your desired outcomes.
- Your previous Medical conditions, drug allergies, and medical treatments.
- Your Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco, and drug use.
- Any Dramatic changes in weight, if it applies.
Schedule Your Blepharoplasty Consultation
In addition to a meaningful discussion, Dr. Kuhlman-Wood will more than likely discuss and do the following:
- Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors.
- If applicable, and with your written consent, take photographs for "Before & After" comparisons.
- Discuss your plastic surgery options and recommend a course of treatment, including non-surgical options that may be available.
- Discuss likely outcomes as-well-as any risks or potential complications.
At Coeur d’Alene Plastic Surgery™, our entire staff is committed to providing a frictionless surgical experience. It begins with listening to your needs and continues through appropriate education and care across your entire surgical experience. This includes providing you the care you need while you recover.
Where will my Blepharoplasty be performed?
Dr. Kuhlman-Wood performs all Blepharoplasty Procedures at either Northwest Specialty Hospital, PleasantView Surgery Center. Both facilities are Doctor-owned facilities and have impeccable records of patient success and satisfaction. Factors such as schedule availability, procedural complexity and your individual needs will determine the location of your procedure.
What should I expect on the day of Surgery?
On the day of your Blepharoplasty, you will check in at the front desk and be placed in the pre-operative section of the surgical center. Dr. Kuhlman-Wood will meet you prior to surgery to answer any questions you may have, calm your nerves and verify you are ready for the procedure. During this time, an IV will be placed to delivery the necessary Anesthesia (Anesthesia types vary depending on patient and procedure). Dr. Kuhlman-Wood will have determined an individualized technique for your procedure depending on your individual findings. Using a special marker, she will place marks on your eyelids to serve as her surgical guides.
The incisions for this procedure are made within the natural crease of the eyelid area, so the scars will be naturally concealed after the procedure is complete. In the case of your upper eyelid, Dr. Kuhlman-Wood will make an incision in the crease of your eyelid, and either reposition or remove the fat deposits, tighten the muscles underneath, and remove excess skin, if necessary. If your lower eyelid is the area of concern, an incision will be made right below the lower lash line, and excess skin will then be removed, along with excess fat deposits. In some cases, Dr. Kuhlman-Wood may use a transconjunctival incision, which is made on the inside of your lower eyelid, to remove excess fat or redistribute it more evenly. If this type of incision is made, no excess skin will be removed. Incisions in and around the eyelids are usually closed with sutures, which should be removed within one week during your follow-up visit.
Recovering after your Blepharoplasty
After the Blepharoplasty, you will need to have someone drive you home and stay with you for at least the first night, as your eyes may be sensitive to light, painful, swollen, bruised, or some combination of these conditions. These symptoms will fade, and you will see the results of the surgery as they reveal smoother and well-defined eyelids.
Dr. Kuhlman-Wood may apply cold compresses or lubricating ointments, and cover the eyes with gauze after the procedure is done. The staff at Coeur d’Alene Plastic Surgery™ will schedule your necessary follow-up visits, and Dr. Kuhlman-Wood will prescribe and council you on the appropriate medications to take to prevent infection, aid in your healing, and reduce pain. She will also provide guidance on when it is appropriate to resume your normal daily activities.
There are many factors that can determine the cost of a Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery). However, you should expect to pay between $5,000 and $9,000. This includes Dr. Kuhlman-Wood’s surgical fee, the cost of anesthesia, facility fees for the hospital and/or surgical center, medical tests, clothing and bandages required after the procedure, and prescriptions for pain medication and antibiotics. It also includes 90 days of post-operative care.
Health insurance plans typically do not cover the Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Procedure; however, Coeur d’Alene Plastic Surgery™ does offer financing to help break up the cost over time. Although monetary cost is important, it is only one of several factors to consider. It is equally important to find a surgeon who is board-certified by the ASPS, trustworthy, and close enough to reduce travel time between visits – especially after your procedure. Perhaps most importantly, choose a surgeon with whom you are comfortable to share in your surgical journey.
Blepharoplasty at a Glance:
- Procedure Location:
- PleasantView Surgery Center
- Required Hospital Stay:
- No
- Recovery Time:
- 4-6 Weeks, Typical
- Procedure Cost:
- Upper Lids: $5,000 - $6,000
- Upper + Lower Lids: $10,000 - $11,000
- Financing Available:
- Yes, thru Care Credit® or Green Sky®
Other Face Procedures:
RealSelf Patient Reviews of Kate Kuhlman-Wood, MD
our practice
Coeur d'Alene Plastic Surgery™ believes that our client's overall health and safety comes first. All procedures, both surgical and non-surgical, are recommended conservatively and performed with Plastic Surgery's best practices to produce appropriate and expected outcomes.
