Quick Answer
Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) in New Zealand costs $6,000-$12,000 for upper and lower eyelids, performed by FRACS plastic surgeons or oculoplastic surgeons. Recovery takes 7-14 days for return to work, with final results visible at 3-6 months. Results last 10-15 years. Upper eyelid surgery may be partially covered by insurance if medically necessary for vision impairment. Success rate is high (90-95%) with appropriate surgeon selection.
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) in New Zealand
Complete guide to blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) in New Zealand. Compare costs ($6,000-$12,000), find specialized surgeons, understand recovery, and learn about insurance coverage for upper eyelid surgery.
Last Updated: 2024
Key Takeaways
- Cost: Upper or lower alone $4k-$8k, Both (quad) $6k-$12k
- Recovery: 7-14 days return to work, 3-6 months final results
- Results Duration: 10-15 years, upper lids last longer than lower
- Surgeon Requirements: FRACS plastic surgeon or oculoplastic surgeon, 50+ procedures annually
- Insurance Coverage: Upper lids may qualify if vision impaired (greater than 30% visual field loss)
- Critical Factor: Choose surgeon specialized in periorbital surgery, not general plastic surgeon
Compare Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Costs by City
Understanding Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery or "eyelid lift," is a surgical procedure to rejuvenate the appearance of the eyes by removing excess skin, muscle, and fat from the upper and/or lower eyelids. This procedure addresses drooping upper eyelids, under-eye bags, puffiness, and wrinkles around the eyes that make you appear tired, aged, or sad.
In New Zealand, blepharoplasty is one of the most popular facial cosmetic procedures, particularly among patients 40-70 years old. The procedure is performed by FRACS-certified plastic surgeons or ophthalmologists with specialized oculoplastic training. Unlike many cosmetic procedures, upper blepharoplasty may qualify for insurance coverage if it's medically necessary for vision correction.
Types of Blepharoplasty
Upper Blepharoplasty
Upper eyelid surgery removes excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids that create a hooded appearance and can obstruct peripheral vision. The surgeon makes an incision along the natural crease of the upper eyelid, removes excess tissue, and closes with fine sutures. The scar is hidden within the eyelid crease and becomes virtually invisible within 6-12 months.
Best For: Drooping upper eyelids, hooded eyes affecting vision, excess upper eyelid skin making eye makeup difficult, asymmetrical upper eyelids.
Cost Range: $4,000-$8,000 NZ
Lower Blepharoplasty
Lower eyelid surgery addresses under-eye bags, puffiness, wrinkles, and loose skin below the eyes. Two approaches are used: transcutaneous (external incision just below lash line) or transconjunctival (internal incision inside lower lid). The transconjunctival approach is preferred for younger patients with good skin elasticity as it leaves no visible scar but can't remove excess skin.
Best For: Under-eye bags, puffiness, dark circles caused by fat herniation, loose lower eyelid skin, tear trough deformity.
Cost Range: $4,000-$8,000 NZ
Quad Blepharoplasty (Upper + Lower)
Quad blepharoplasty addresses both upper and lower eyelids in a single procedure for comprehensive eye rejuvenation. This is the most common approach for patients seeking significant improvement and offers better value than staged procedures. Surgery takes 2-3 hours under general anesthesia or heavy sedation.
Best For: Comprehensive eye rejuvenation, both upper lid drooping and lower lid bags, patients wanting to undergo one recovery period.
Cost Range: $6,000-$12,000 NZ (often 15-20% savings compared to separate procedures)
Blepharoplasty Procedure Details
What to Expect During Surgery
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with sedation OR general anesthesia depending on extent of surgery and patient preference (1-2 hours procedure time)
- Incisions: Upper lids - along natural crease; Lower lids - below lash line or inside lid
- Tissue Adjustment: Removal or repositioning of fat, removal of excess skin and muscle, tightening of remaining tissue
- Closure: Fine sutures or tissue glue, typically removed at 5-7 days
- Recovery Room: 1-2 hours monitoring, cold compresses applied, instructions given
- Discharge: Same day (outpatient), driven home by companion, first follow-up within 24-48 hours
Cost Breakdown by City
| City | Upper OR Lower | Quad (Both) | Specialists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auckland | $5,000-$8,000 | $8,000-$12,000 | 35+ |
| Wellington | $4,500-$7,500 | $7,000-$11,000 | 22+ |
| Christchurch | $4,000-$7,000 | $6,000-$10,000 | 18+ |
| Hamilton | $4,000-$6,500 | $6,500-$9,500 | 10+ |
Insurance Coverage for Blepharoplasty
Upper blepharoplasty may be partially covered by insurance or public health system if it's medically necessary for vision correction. To qualify, you must meet specific criteria:
- Visual Field Testing: Documented obstruction greater than 30% of superior visual field
- Functional Impairment: Drooping eyelids interfering with daily activities (reading, driving, working)
- Failed Conservative Treatment: Tried non-surgical approaches like tape, brow exercises without success
- Photographic Documentation: Clinical photos clearly showing eyelid ptosis and excess skin
- Specialist Referral: Referral from optometrist or general practitioner to ophthalmologist or plastic surgeon
Public System: Free through public hospitals if criteria met, but wait times typically 6-18 months. Priority given to severe cases affecting vision.
Private Insurance: Southern Cross, NIB, and other private insurers may cover portion of medically necessary upper blepharoplasty (typically 50-70% of surgeon/facility fees). Requires pre-approval with documented visual field testing.
Lower Blepharoplasty: Considered purely cosmetic and not covered by any insurance or public system.
Blepharoplasty vs. Other Eye Rejuvenation Options
Comparison Table
| Treatment | Best For | Cost | Downtime | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blepharoplasty | Excess skin, severe bags, vision impairment | $6k-$12k | 7-14 days | 10-15 years |
| Brow Lift | Drooping caused by low brow position | $8k-$14k | 10-14 days | 7-12 years |
| Dermal Fillers | Mild hollowing, tear troughs, volume loss | $800-$1.5k | 2-3 days | 12-18 months |
| Laser Resurfacing | Fine wrinkles, skin texture, mild laxity | $2k-$4k | 7-10 days | 2-5 years |
| Thread Lift | Mild to moderate sagging, not ready for surgery | $2k-$4k | 3-5 days | 1-3 years |
Combining Blepharoplasty with Other Procedures
Blepharoplasty is frequently combined with other facial procedures for comprehensive rejuvenation and better value:
- Blepharoplasty + Brow Lift: Addresses both upper eyelid hooding and low brow position ($12k-$18k total, 2-3 weeks recovery)
- Blepharoplasty + Facelift: Complete upper face and mid-face rejuvenation ($25k-$35k total, 3-4 weeks recovery)
- Blepharoplasty + Fat Grafting: Removes excess fat from lids, adds volume to hollow areas ($8k-$14k total)
- Blepharoplasty + Laser Resurfacing: Removes excess skin surgically, improves skin texture and wrinkles ($9k-$15k total)
Combining procedures reduces overall costs by 10-20% compared to separate surgeries, requires only one anesthesia session and recovery period, and achieves more harmonious, balanced results.
What to Expect During Consultation
Your initial consultation with an oculoplastic surgeon or FRACS plastic surgeon is crucial for determining candidacy and planning your procedure. A thorough consultation (45-60 minutes) should include:
- Complete eye health assessment including tear production (Schirmer test) and eyelid function
- Visual field testing if upper eyelids are affecting vision (may be required for insurance)
- Analysis of eyelid skin quality, fat distribution, and muscle tone
- Assessment of brow position (low brows can masquerade as upper eyelid excess)
- Evaluation of facial symmetry and proportions
- Discussion of realistic outcomes with before/after photo review
- Explanation of surgical technique, anesthesia options, and recovery expectations
- Complete review of risks, complications, and how they're managed
- Detailed cost breakdown and payment/financing options
- Computer imaging if available to visualize potential results
Consultations typically cost $150-$350 (often credited toward surgery if you proceed). Bring list of medications, glasses/contacts prescription, and photos showing desired outcomes.
Managing Expectations
Realistic expectations are critical for satisfaction with blepharoplasty results:
Blepharoplasty Can:
- Remove excess upper eyelid skin improving vision and appearance
- Eliminate or significantly reduce under-eye bags and puffiness
- Create more youthful, refreshed eye appearance
- Improve symmetry between eyes
- Make eyes appear larger and more open
- Results that last 10-15 years or longer
Blepharoplasty Cannot:
- Eliminate dark circles caused by pigmentation or thin skin (may need laser or filler)
- Remove crow's feet or fine wrinkles (need Botox or laser resurfacing)
- Lift sagging brows (need brow lift procedure)
- Change your eye shape, size, or color
- Stop the natural aging process (aging continues after surgery)
- Correct vision problems like astigmatism or presbyopia
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
Preserving your blepharoplasty results long-term requires ongoing commitment:
- Sun Protection: Wear SPF 50+ sunscreen daily and sunglasses to prevent premature aging and scar darkening
- Eye Care: Keep skin around eyes well-moisturized, use quality eye creams with retinol and peptides
- No Smoking: Smoking accelerates aging around eyes and can compromise results
- Healthy Lifestyle: Adequate sleep (7-9 hours), hydration, balanced diet support skin health
- Gentle Skincare: Avoid harsh rubbing or pulling on delicate eyelid skin
- Medical-Grade Products: Invest in quality eye serums and treatments (vitamin C, peptides, growth factors)
- Complementary Treatments: Botox for crow's feet (every 3-4 months), laser treatments for skin quality (annually)
- Annual Follow-ups: Regular check-ins with your surgeon to monitor results and address concerns early
With proper care and sun protection, blepharoplasty results typically last 10-15 years before revision may be considered. Some patients never require revision surgery.
How to Choose the Best Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Provider
Verify Specialized Qualifications
Choose a surgeon who is either a FRACS-certified plastic surgeon with extensive facial surgery experience OR an ophthalmologist with specialized oculoplastic training. Oculoplastic surgeons have completed ophthalmology residency plus 1-2 years fellowship in eyelid and facial plastic surgery. Verify they perform 50+ blepharoplasty procedures annually. Check membership in New Zealand Association of Plastic Surgeons (NZAPS) or similar professional bodies.
Assess Eyelid-Specific Experience
Eyelid surgery requires specialized skills due to delicate anatomy and proximity to eyes. Look for surgeons who specialize in facial procedures, particularly periorbital (around the eye) surgery. Ask how many blepharoplasties they perform annually (experienced surgeons: 100+ procedures), their revision rate (should be less than 5%), and complication rate. Request before/after photos of patients with similar age and eyelid concerns.
Evaluate Comprehensive Assessment Approach
During consultation, surgeon should perform thorough examination including visual field testing (if upper lids), assessment of tear production (Schirmer test), evaluation of eyelid position and symmetry, skin quality analysis, and discussion of realistic outcomes. They should photograph your eyelids from multiple angles and explain exactly what can be achieved. Be wary of surgeons who don't assess underlying causes like brow ptosis or recommend unnecessary procedures.
Review Patient Outcomes & Testimonials
Examine before/after photo galleries focusing on patients with similar eyelid anatomy and concerns to yours. Read independent patient reviews on platforms like RealSelf, Google Reviews, and clinic comparison sites. Look for consistent feedback about natural-looking results, minimal scarring, and good communication. Ask the surgeon for patient references you can contact directly. Check Medical Council of New Zealand for any disciplinary actions.
Assess Safety Protocols & Facility Standards
Ensure surgery is performed in accredited facility (New Zealand Private Surgical Hospitals Association or equivalent) with full resuscitation equipment. Surgeon should have hospital privileges at nearby facility. Anesthesia should be administered by board-certified anesthesiologist, not just sedationist. Discuss emergency protocols and after-hours contact information. Verify comprehensive pre-operative testing and post-operative follow-up schedule (typically 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months).
Recovery Timeline & What to Expect
Initial Recovery (Days 1-7)
Expect moderate swelling, bruising (peaks day 2-3), and discomfort around eyes. Apply cold compresses 10-15 minutes every hour while awake for first 48 hours. Keep head elevated 30-45 degrees including during sleep. Take prescribed pain medication and antibiotics. Use prescribed eye drops/ointment to prevent dry eyes. Vision may be blurry from ointment. Avoid bending, heavy lifting, straining. No contact lenses for 2 weeks. Stitches removed at days 5-7.
Early Healing (Weeks 2-4)
Swelling reduces by 50-70% by week 3. Bruising fades (concealer makeup allowed after stitch removal). Most patients return to work at 7-10 days wearing sunglasses. Can resume light activities and walking. Continue using lubricating eye drops for dry eye symptoms. Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, bending over. No swimming or hot tubs for 3 weeks. Protect eyes from sun, wind, and dust. Gentle eyelid hygiene with baby shampoo. Vision returns to normal.
Full Recovery (Months 3-12)
Residual swelling resolves completely by 3-6 months. Scars continue to fade and mature over 6-12 months, becoming barely visible. Eyelid sensation normalizes (numbness or tightness resolves). Can resume all activities including contact sports by 6 weeks. Final aesthetic results visible at 3-6 months. Dry eye symptoms should resolve by 3 months (if persistent, see surgeon). Follow-up appointments at 6 months and 12 months to assess long-term results. Maintain results with sun protection and proper skincare.
Before & After Care Instructions
Before Your Procedure
- Stop smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery (critical: impairs healing and increases complications)
- Discontinue blood-thinning medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, fish oil, ginger, garlic supplements) 2 weeks prior
- Stop taking herbal supplements that affect bleeding (ginkgo biloba, St. John's wort) 2 weeks prior
- Arrange transportation home and assistance for first 24-48 hours post-surgery
- Purchase cold compress/gel eye masks, lubricating eye drops (preservative-free), gauze pads, Q-tips
- Fill prescriptions before surgery: pain medication, antibiotics, eye drops/ointment
- Discontinue contact lenses 48 hours before surgery, bring prescription glasses
- Set up recovery area: extra pillows for elevation, easy reach items, ice/cold packs ready
- If you have dry eye condition, inform surgeon and optimize treatment pre-operatively
- Complete visual field testing if upper eyelid surgery (may be required for insurance)
- Fast from midnight before surgery (no food, drink, gum, or mints after designated time)
- Wash face and hair thoroughly morning of surgery, no makeup, lotions, or facial products
- Remove contact lenses, jewelry, and bring prescription sunglasses for after surgery
After Your Procedure
- Apply cold compresses 10-15 minutes every hour while awake for first 48 hours (reduces swelling)
- Keep head elevated 30-45 degrees at all times for first week, including sleep (use 2-3 pillows)
- Take prescribed pain medication and antibiotics as directed, don't wait for pain to worsen
- Use prescribed eye drops/ointment every 2-4 hours to prevent dry eyes and corneal irritation
- Clean eyelids gently with diluted baby shampoo or provided cleanser twice daily after 48 hours
- Apply antibiotic ointment to incision lines as directed (usually 3-4 times daily)
- Avoid rubbing, touching, or pulling on eyelids (risk of suture disruption)
- No bending over, heavy lifting (over 5kg), or straining for 2 weeks (increases swelling and bleeding risk)
- No strenuous exercise, running, or activities that increase heart rate for 3 weeks
- Avoid activities that could bump or injure eyes for 4 weeks (contact sports, crowded areas)
- No swimming, hot tubs, saunas for 3 weeks (infection risk)
- Wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect eyes from sun, wind, and dust (minimum 2 weeks)
- Sleep on back, not side or stomach, for 2 weeks (prevents pressure on eyelids)
- No eye makeup for 2 weeks minimum (can use makeup on rest of face after stitch removal)
- No contact lenses for 2-3 weeks or until cleared by surgeon
- Limit screen time, reading, and activities requiring eye strain for first week
- Keep environment humid (use humidifier) to prevent dry eyes
- Attend all follow-up appointments: day 1-2, day 5-7 (stitch removal), week 2, month 1, month 3, month 6
- Watch for warning signs: sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, significant asymmetry, fever, excessive discharge
- Report persistent dry eyes, difficulty closing eyes, or double vision immediately
- Protect scars from sun exposure for 12 months minimum (SPF 50+ or cover with sunglasses)
- Begin scar massage (gentle circular motions) after stitch removal when surgeon approves
- Resume retinol, vitamin C serums, and other active skincare only when cleared by surgeon (typically 4-6 weeks)
Important Safety Information & Potential Risks
While blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is generally safe, it's important to be aware of potential risks and complications:
- Infection requiring antibiotics (less than 2% of cases)
- Bleeding or hematoma requiring drainage (2-3%)
- Temporary blurred vision or double vision (5-10%), usually resolves within days
- Dry eyes: temporary (10-20%), persistent requiring ongoing treatment (2-5%)
- Difficulty closing eyes completely (lagophthalmos), usually temporary (1-2%)
- Asymmetry between eyes requiring revision (5-10%)
- Visible scarring or poor scar healing (less than 5%)
- Ectropion (lower eyelid pulled down/outward) requiring revision (less than 2%)
- Under-correction or over-correction requiring revision (3-5%)
- Milia (small white bumps) along incision line (5-10%, easily removed)
- Prolonged swelling lasting months (2-5%)
- Changes in eyelid sensation, usually temporary (10-15%), permanent (less than 2%)
- Damage to eye muscles causing double vision (rare, less than 1%)
- Retrobulbar hematoma (bleeding behind eye) requiring emergency treatment (less than 0.1%)
- Permanent vision loss (extremely rare, less than 0.01%)
- Anesthesia complications (less than 1% serious events)
Always discuss these risks with your surgeon during your consultation and ensure you're treated by a qualified, board-certified specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
How much does blepharoplasty cost in New Zealand?
Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) costs in New Zealand range from $4,000-$8,000 for upper or lower eyelids alone, or $6,000-$12,000 for both upper and lower (quad blepharoplasty). Costs vary based on surgeon experience, extent of correction needed, whether it's combined with other procedures, and geographic location. Auckland prices tend to be 10-15% higher than Christchurch.
Am I a good candidate for eyelid surgery?
Good candidates are typically 35+ years old with excess eyelid skin, under-eye bags, drooping upper lids affecting vision, or puffy lower lids. You should be in good health, non-smoker, have realistic expectations, and stable thyroid function. Not suitable if you have uncontrolled glaucoma, dry eye syndrome, or certain autoimmune conditions. A consultation with a FRACS plastic surgeon or ophthalmologist will assess your suitability.
What's the difference between upper and lower blepharoplasty?
Upper blepharoplasty removes excess skin and fat from upper eyelids to correct drooping and hooding that can impair vision. Incisions are hidden in the natural eyelid crease. Lower blepharoplasty addresses under-eye bags, puffiness, and wrinkles by removing or repositioning fat and tightening skin. Incisions can be just below the lash line (transcutaneous) or inside the eyelid (transconjunctival) for younger patients with good skin quality.
How long does recovery take after blepharoplasty?
Initial recovery takes 7-14 days with most swelling and bruising subsiding by day 10-14. Stitches are removed at 5-7 days. Most patients return to work at 7-10 days (can wear sunglasses to conceal residual bruising). Avoid strenuous exercise for 2-3 weeks, heavy lifting for 4 weeks. Final results visible at 3-6 months once all swelling resolves and scars mature. Temporary side effects include dry eyes, blurred vision, and light sensitivity.
Will blepharoplasty leave visible scars?
Blepharoplasty scars are designed to be minimal and well-hidden. Upper eyelid scars are placed in the natural crease and become virtually invisible within 6-12 months. Lower eyelid scars (if external approach) are just below the lash line and fade to thin white lines. Transconjunctival approach (inside lower lid) leaves no visible scars. Scar visibility depends on surgical technique, individual healing, genetics, and proper post-op care (sun protection, scar massage).
Can blepharoplasty be covered by insurance in New Zealand?
Upper blepharoplasty may be partially covered if it's medically necessary for vision impairment. You'll need documented visual field testing showing obstruction greater than 30%, failed conservative treatments, photos demonstrating lid drooping, and specialist referral. Public health system wait times can be 6-18 months. Lower blepharoplasty is purely cosmetic and not covered. Always check with your specific insurer and get pre-approval before proceeding.
How long do blepharoplasty results last?
Blepharoplasty results typically last 10-15 years, sometimes longer. Upper eyelid surgery results are more permanent as excess skin is removed. Lower eyelid results can last 10-15 years but natural aging continues. Factors affecting longevity include genetics, sun exposure, smoking, skin quality, and weight fluctuations. Some patients undergo revision surgery after 10-20 years. Maintaining results with good skincare, sun protection, and healthy lifestyle is important.
What are the risks of eyelid surgery?
Blepharoplasty risks include infection (less than 2%), bleeding/hematoma (2-3%), temporary blurred or double vision (5-10%), dry eyes (10-20% temporary, 2-5% persistent), difficulty closing eyes completely (rare, less than 1%), asymmetry (5-10%), visible scarring (less than 5%), ectropion (lower lid pulled down, less than 2%), and vision loss (extremely rare, less than 0.01%). Choosing an experienced oculoplastic surgeon or FRACS plastic surgeon significantly reduces these risks.