Your eyes are a powerful expression of who you are, yet ageing can bring unwanted changes like sagging, wrinkles, and drooping lids. This natural process, influenced by both genetics and time, often prompts people to consider cosmetic solutions like blepharoplasty. This procedure, known for rejuvenating the eyes by lifting and smoothing the eyelids, addresses these common concerns.
Let’s explore the world of blepharoplasty and discover how understanding the differences in costs between the UK and international markets can guide you in making informed decisions about your cosmetic treatment.
Blepharoplasty Explained
Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery or an eyelift, is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin from the upper, lower, or both eyelids. It aims to revitalize overall facial appearance by reducing tired-looking lower lids and drooping upper lids.
Three types of cosmetic eye surgery target specific eyelid areas to achieve your desired look:
- Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty: This procedure targets sagging skin, excess fat, and puffiness in the upper eyelid, enhancing vision and creating a more alert and vibrant appearance.
- Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty: Lower eyelid surgery helps smooth the area under the eye, resulting in a well-rested and younger look. It is ideal for addressing prominent puffiness caused by factors like insufficient sleep, poor diet, and the natural ageing process.
- Bilateral Eyelid Surgery: This combines upper and lower eyelid surgeries to address swollen, sagging skin on both eyelids. It’s recommended for individuals seeking comprehensive rejuvenation of the eye area.
A popular method of blepharoplasty is the double eyelid surgery, often referred to as “Asian blepharoplasty,” which is favoured by East Asian individuals seeking to enhance their appearance by creating a natural eyelid crease.
Wondering how to achieve the double eyelid look? According to Allure Plastic Surgery, an award-winning clinic in Singapore specialising in this procedure, there are two main methods available: non-incisional and incisional surgery.
Non-incisional surgery utilises stitches to create the eyelid crease without cutting. It offers a speedy procedure with quicker healing and potential reversibility. However, the longevity of the crease may be influenced by factors such as ageing and lifestyle.
Incisional surgery, on the other hand, involves removing excess skin and fat before creating a new eyelid fold through incisions. While this method provides a permanent change, it requires a longer recovery period compared to non-incisional techniques.
International Blepharoplasty Prices
The cost of eyelid surgery varies significantly across different countries. In the UK, the cost of cosmetic procedures such as eyelid surgery differs based on factors like the surgeon’s experience and the quality of the facilities. For instance, London offers prestigious clinics and highly skilled surgeons, ensuring strict regulatory standards and state-of-the-art facilities. While procedures here may be more expensive, patients benefit from comprehensive care and superior results.
On the other hand, international markets often provide competitive pricing for cosmetic surgeries. Countries known for medical tourism offer more affordable options without sacrificing quality. Many people choose to seek treatment abroad for reasons such as cost-effectiveness, quicker access to appointments and procedures, availability of advanced treatments not locally available, and the chance to blend medical care with travel or vacation. These aspects make going abroad a practical choice for those considering cosmetic procedures, ensuring high standards of care while potentially reducing expenses.
Eyelid Surgery Price Check:
UK
According to the UK’s Harley Street Skin Clinic, prices for upper eyelid surgery start at approximately £4,500 (6,240 USD). Lower eyelid surgery begins at around £5,250 (7,350 USD). Opting for both upper and lower eyelid surgeries together starts at approximately £7,300 (10,220 USD).
USA
In the USA, upper eyelid surgery typically costs between 5,000 USD and 6,000 USD, covering facility and anaesthesia fees. In contrast, lower eyelid surgery averages between 9,000 USD and 12,000 USD, inclusive of facility and anaesthesia fees.
DUBAI
In Dubai, the cost of eyelid surgery depends on the specific technique and complexity involved. For upper eyelid surgery, costs start at around 2,750 USD, while lower eyelid surgery starts at approximately 3,450 USD. A combination of both upper and lower eyelid procedures starts at around 4,100 USD.
SOUTH KOREA
In South Korea, upper eyelid surgery costs between 3,500 USD and 5,000 USD on average, and lower eyelid surgery ranges from 3,000 USD to 4,000 USD.
TURKEY
Meanwhile, Turkey is recognized for offering competitive rates for eyelid surgeries. Blepharoplasty is priced between 1,200 USD and 2,600 USD, while combined upper and lower eyelid surgery typically costs between 2,400 and 5,200 USD.
CZECH REPUBLIC
In the Czech Republic, affordable options are available, such as at the Beauty Shape clinic, where blepharoplasty is priced at approximately 900 to 1,000 USD (21,000 CZK).
THAILAND & MEXICO
Comparatively, other countries like Thailand and Mexico offer lower prices for cosmetic procedures such as eyelid surgery. In Thailand, the cost of blepharoplasty can start as low as 750 USD and range up to 4,199 USD, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the reputation of the clinic. Similarly, in Mexico, the cost typically ranges between 2,000 and 3,000 USD.
High patient volumes at centers in Turkey and Mexico enable them to optimize variable costs, allowing for more competitive pricing.
These lower prices in international markets can be attributed to factors such as lower operating costs, less stringent regulatory requirements, and favourable exchange rates. Despite the lower costs, many facilities in these countries maintain high standards of care and employ skilled surgeons.
By understanding these cost differences, patients can consider their options based on budget, desired quality of care, and where they want to travel. Typically, when getting eyelid surgery abroad, plan to stay for about 1 to 2 weeks. This allows time for consultations before the procedure, the surgery itself, and initial recovery. Make sure to discuss recovery expectations and post-surgery care with the clinic or surgeon.
If you’re considering eyelid surgery abroad, contact our Medical Travel Consultants today for guidance with your search. We are available 7 days a week.
