Upper Blepharoplasty · Cost & Medicare
Eyelid Surgery · Costs and Medicare
The single biggest factor that influences the cost of upper eyelid surgery is whether your condition qualifies for a Medicare item number. Here is how that works — and every component a complete quote contains.
The components
All components are itemised in a written quote after your consultation.
Medicare
Medicare contributes to upper eyelid surgery only when it is functional: excess skin must measurably obstruct your visual field, with specific criteria met and documented. When criteria are satisfied, a Medicare item applies, rebates flow for surgeon and anaesthetist fees, and private health insurance may cover facility costs — reducing out-of-pocket substantially.
If your surgery is for appearance alone, it is cosmetic: no Medicare, no health fund, and (since 2023) GST applies. Dr Kim assesses eligibility at consultation, documents visual fields where relevant, and confirms clearly whether you meet the criteria.
Your written quote
After consultation you receive a complete written quote: every component, every rebate, the exact out-of-pocket figure. Bring your GP referral (needed for any Medicare rebate on consultation and surgery), your health fund details, and a list of medications. Fees are provided in writing at consultation.
Common questions
Only when it is functional — excess skin measurably obstructing your visual field with documented criteria met. Cosmetic blepharoplasty receives no Medicare or health fund contribution.
It is possible in select cases. Whether this is a viable option for you is discussed at the time of consultation.
A GP referral is required to claim any Medicare rebate on the consultation and, where eligible, the surgery. Even for cosmetic enquiries a referral helps coordinate your care.
It depends on Medicare eligibility, your health fund and the anaesthetic approach. You'll receive the exact, all-inclusive figure in writing after your consultation — before you commit to anything.
Related
Next step
Consultations in Sydney CBD and North Sydney. Referrals from GPs, dermatologists and Mohs surgery specialists welcome. Phone 1300 911 151.
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