FAQs
We know that making decisions about your eye care can come with questions. To help, we've compiled answers to some of the questions we are asked most often.
Appointments & Referrals
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We generally book appointments 6–8 weeks in advance. All referrals are reviewed to ensure patients are seen in a timeframe appropriate to their clinical urgency. If your situation changes or you'd like to be seen sooner, please contact our reception team to be added to our cancellation list.
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Yes, a referral is required for all appointments. This ensures you're eligible for a Medicare rebate and gives us important information to prepare for your visit. A referral can be obtained from your GP, optometrist or another specialist.
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Please allow 60–90 minutes for your visit. If you have multiple concerns or a complex condition, let our staff know when booking so we can allocate sufficient time and keep your visit on schedule.
Costs & Billing
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The cost of your appointment depends on the reason for your visit and whether any diagnostic tests are required. Our reception team can give you an estimate before your appointment, and you'll also receive an approximate cost breakdown with your booking confirmation. These figures are estimates only — your exact fees are confirmed at the consultation.
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An accurate quote can only be provided once you've been assessed in person. Surgical fees depend on the specific procedure required, which MBS item numbers (if any) apply, and whether surgery is performed in hospital or in-rooms. You'll receive a detailed written quote after your consultation, before any surgery is booked.
Eyelid (Blepharoplasty) Surgery
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This is determined by your operating surgeon, based on defined criteria set out in the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) — it is not a discretionary clinical judgement, and is not based on how bothersome your eyelids feel. The surgeon must be satisfied the criteria are met and properly documented, as Medicare claims are subject to audit.
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No. A referral explains why you've been sent for assessment, but it does not determine MBS eligibility. That determination can only be made by the operating surgeon, after examination, against the Medicare criteria.
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No. A functional classification means an MBS item number applies, but the combined Medicare and health fund rebate is modest (currently under $450), so there will still be a significant out-of-pocket cost. We do not bulk bill or participate in gap-cover arrangements for this surgery — the full fee is payable upfront, with your rebate processed on your behalf afterwards. An anaesthetist fee also applies for hospital-based procedures.
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If your procedure doesn't meet the MBS criteria, no Medicare or health fund rebate applies, and the surgical, hospital and anaesthetist fees are all payable directly. A “cosmetic” classification describes Medicare eligibility only — it doesn't mean the surgery won't benefit you. Many patients whose surgery is classified this way still experience a meaningful improvement in comfort, vision or appearance.
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For suitable patients, we offer an in-rooms option for upper eyelid surgery, performed under local anaesthetic without sedation. As this avoids a hospital admission, it can reduce your overall out-of-pocket cost. Suitability for this option is assessed at your consultation.
