| Cover Page | Dec. 07, 2023 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 07, 2023 |
| Entity Registrant Name | EDWARDS LIFESCIENCES CORPORATION |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-15525 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 36-4316614 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | One Edwards Way |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Irvine |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 92614 |
| City Area Code | 949 |
| Local Phone Number | 250-2500 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $1.00 per share |
| Trading Symbol | EW |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001099800 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
