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How To Qualify For Eyelid Surgery?

There are numerous advantages to having your eyelids operated on. In some cases, it can improve your eyesight as well as your appearance. A consultation with one of our knowledgeable optometrists at Utah Valley Eye Center in Provo is highly recommended if you are concerned about the cost of this procedure. They’ll be able to figure out what you need and how to go about getting it done. If you want your insurance to cover the cost of eyelid surgery, here are some of the steps you need to take.

If you have a problem like drooping eyelids caused by muscle weakness or nerve damage, blepharochalasis, dermatochalasis, herniated orbital fat, floppy eyelid syndrome, or any other reconstructive or functional problem, your insurance company may pay for your surgery, but this is not always the case, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Make an appointment with your optometrist to get a better idea of what you need. Assess whether or not you require surgery. In order for blepharoplasty to be medically necessary, your doctor must document one or more of the following:

-Blepharochalasis
-The conjunctival (membrane the covers the white part of the eye) inflammation
-Dermatochalasis
-Excessive water retention (swelling)
-Ptosis of the eyelids or brows
-Increased orbicularis oculi hypertrophy (muscles that work the eyelids)
-Acute keratitis (cornea inflammation)
-Agony-in-the-eyes (poor eyelid closure)
-It is festooned with malar (bags)
-Extrusion of fat from the orbits
-Defects in the visual field

The condition that requires correction should be documented with photographs taken by a surgeon. Patients may be asked to sign a release form if their insurance company wants to see their photos.

Pre-operative diagnostic tests recommended by your doctors should be completed to the letter. These include, but are not limited to:

-clotting and bleeding research
-Evaluation of the heart
-A complete blood count and the SMA-7 enzyme assay (a blood metabolic panel)
-A test by Schirmer (dry eye test)

Who is not a candidate for eyelid surgery?

People who have a history of dry eye, hypertension, circulation problems, thyroid disorders, diabetes, or heart disease are not good candidates for eyelid surgery. Before undergoing surgery, people with glaucoma should consult with their doctor to make sure it’s safe for them.

Does insurance pay for hooded eye surgery?

It is also possible to have lower eyelid surgery to remove excess skin and tissue that causes bags under the eyes. Because it is considered elective, eyelid surgery for aesthetic reasons is not covered by insurance.

How do I know if I need eyelid surgery?

Under-eye puffiness or bags. Lower eyelid blemishes or excess skin. Lower eyelid skin that has begun to droop in maturity. Disruption of the upper eyelid’s natural contour, which may impair vision.

Learn more about eyelid surgery, check out How Much Is Eyelid Surgery?

Disvocer more about blepharoplasty, read How long does blepharoplasty last?

Read more on eyelid surgery at Blepharoplasty Santa Barbara, CA Eyelid Surgery Specialists

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