LASIK Eye Surgery Costs

If you are considering obtaining LASIK eye surgery, you likely do have many questions.  In this regard, you probably have many questions in regard to the costs associated with LASIK eye surgery.  We provide you with a discussion of the costs associated with LASIK eye surgery in this day and age.  Of course, if you have any questions, you should consult with your eye care or eye surgery specialist.

LASIK Normally is Not Covered by Insurance

Because LASIK is not covered by many health insurance carriers, the full cost must be borne by the patient. LASIK is an expensive surgery, and prices may be creeping up. Sometimes people will go for the cheapest price, but when it comes to eyesight this is not the best way to approach the problem.

Beware of Advertised Prices

While almost everyone has heard radio ads for the procedure at a cost of only $500 per eye, this price is also subject to change based on your personal needs. Always read the entire quote for hidden costs, and discuss all possibilities with your eye surgeon. Know up front exactly how much it’s going to cost for your procedure, and if there will be follow up charges for later enhancements and corrections. Sometimes prices that are originally quoted low end up in the thousands of dollars per eye when the final bill comes due. Don’t leave yourself vulnerable.

Average LASIK Prices

All About Vision states the average price of LASIK in the first quarter of 2006 was $2,052, up from $1,550 in 2002. Some of the reason for this is the custom LASIK procedure and use of some new technologies. For instance wavefront LASIK uses computers to measure the abnormalities in the patient’s visual field, and this is more expensive. Wavefront can add upwards of $500 to the cost of a procedure.

Reducing Costs Associated with LASIK

To reduce your costs, All About Vision suggest you check into having your employer negotiate for a lower rate, since insurance companies won’t cover it. Also check with an accountant to see if you can get a tax deduction for your surgery.

Consider Working Out a Financing Plan

However, remember that price shopping could cost you more than it saves. It would be better to work out a financing plan that to risk your eyes, a risk that often amounts to less than a dollar per day. Often prices are based on a surgeon’s experience in the field or with a particular technology. If you want the kind of training and experience that ensures high quality eye care, make sure your surgeon has attended top-notch training programs and has continuing education, as well as good equipment. Also, be sure you check with your state’s medical board for the reputation of the eye surgeon you’re considering.