Lasik surgery has been one of the most popular surgical procedures for vision correction since it was first introduced in the late 1980s. The surgery helps people achieve clear vision without the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses. However, one of the most common questions asked about Lasik surgery is how much it costs. The answer varies depending on several factors such as the surgeon’s experience, the technology used, and the location of the surgery. In this article, we will discuss the typical cost of Lasik surgery, factors affecting the price, and what you need to consider before deciding to undergo the procedure.
What is Lasik Surgery?
Lasik surgery is a laser-based eye surgery that aims to correct the vision problems of patients. Specifically, Lasik stands for “Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis.” The procedure works by reshaping the cornea, which is the clear front part of the eye, to correct refractive errors that cause blurred vision, farsightedness, or astigmatism. During the surgery, a flap is created in the cornea, and a laser is used to reshape the underlying tissue to correct the vision problem. The flap is then replaced and allowed to heal, and no external sutures are required.
What is the Typical Cost of Lasik Surgery?
Lasik surgery is not cheap, and the average cost tends to be between $2,000 and $4,000 per eye. On average, the total cost can range from $4,000 to $8,000 for both eyes, including the pre-operative and post-operative care. However, the cost of Lasik surgery is variable, and several factors can affect the price.
What Factors Affect the Price of Lasik Surgery?
The cost of Lasik surgery can vary due to various factors, such as:
- The Surgeon’s Experience: More experienced surgeons tend to charge higher prices for their services.
- The Technology Used: Advanced laser systems can increase the cost of the procedure.
- The Location: The cost of living and operating expenses in the area can influence the price of the surgery.
- The Extent of Refractive Error: The severity of the patient’s vision problem can affect the cost of the surgery.
- The Need for Customized Treatment: Customized Lasik surgery typically costs more than traditional Lasik surgery.
- The Type of Procedure: Some procedures, such as bladeless Lasik or Wavefront Lasik, tend to be more expensive than traditional Lasik.
What Should You Consider Before Undergoing Lasik Surgery?
Before undergoing Lasik surgery, there are several factors you need to consider:
- Your Age: The FDA has approved Lasik surgery for people aged 18 and older. However, some doctors prefer to wait until a patient is at least 21 years old to ensure that their vision has stabilized.
- Your Health: Your overall health condition can affect the success of the surgery. Some medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders can affect your ability to heal and increase the risk of complications.
- Your Eye Health: Certain eye conditions, such as a history of dry eyes, thin corneas, or large pupils, can make Lasik surgery unsuitable for some patients.
- Your Lifestyle: If you lead an active lifestyle, you may have to avoid certain activities such as swimming or playing contact sports for a while after the surgery.
- Your Budget: The cost of Lasik surgery is a significant expense, so you need to ensure it fits your budget, consider using health insurance or financing options to reduce the burden.
- Your Expectations: While Lasik surgery can significantly improve your vision, it’s essential to have realistic expectations about the outcome.
Is Lasik Surgery Covered by Insurance?
Most insurance plans do not cover Lasik surgery because insurance companies consider it an elective procedure. However, some companies offer discounts on Lasik surgery to their employees, and some offer flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs) that allow you to use pre-tax dollars to pay for Lasik surgery.
Conclusion
LASIK eye surgery is an effective and safe way to correct vision problems, but it is not cheap. The cost of the procedure can vary depending on several factors, and it’s crucial to choose a surgeon and procedure that fits your budget, medical history, and lifestyle. When considering LASIK surgery, you should understand what affects the cost, the potential risks and benefits, and the types and availability of financing that might be available to you.
The Most Common Questions About Lasik Surgery Cost
1. How much does Lasik surgery cost?
On average, Lasik surgery costs between $2,000 and $4,000 per eye, and the total cost, including pre and post-operative care, can range from $4,000 to $8,000 for both eyes.
2. Does insurance cover the cost of Lasik surgery?
Most insurance plans do not cover Lasik surgery because it is considered an elective procedure. However, some companies offer FSA or HSA plans that allow you to pay with pre-tax dollars.
3. What factors influence the cost of Lasik surgery?
Several factors can affect the cost of Lasik surgery, including the surgeon’s experience, the technology used, the patient’s location, the severity of refractive error, the need for customized treatment, and the type of procedure.
4. Is Lasik surgery permanent?
Yes, Lasik surgery is permanent, and it can significantly reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, as you age, you may still experience some changes to your vision that may require further surgery or other treatments.
5. What are the benefits of Lasik surgery?
The benefits of Lasik surgery include improved vision, reduced or eliminated need for eyeglasses or contact lenses, and an improved quality of life. The surgery is safe and effective for most patients, and the recovery period is relatively short.
References
- American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2021). LASIK Surgery. EyeSmart. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik
- Cost Helper. (2021). How much does LASIK Eye Surgery Cost? https://health.costhelper.com/lasik_eyes.html
- The Laser Vision Correction Center of New Jersey. (2021). LASIK FAQs. http://www.lvccnj.com/laser-vision-correction/common-lasik-questions