Medically Reviewed by: Edward C. Wade, M.D., F.A.C.S.
How The Cost Of LASIK Surgery Is Determined
Many people who learn about LASIK eye surgery realize it will benefit them. Their next question is usually about the costs involved with having such a procedure. People need to understand this is an elective surgical procedure. The cost for LASIK can vary from one provider to another. There are a number of factors involved with determining the cost for LASIK. Things such as the technology used by the surgeon, the amount of vision correction needed as well as the difficulty of an individual procedure, experience of the surgeon doing the procedure and more. Depending on the type of LASIK procedure, the cost of LASIK surgery will vary; however, in most cases the procedure starts around $2000.
Items Included In Cost
When a person makes this much of an investment in their eyes, they’ll want to know what they’re getting. When a person is quoted a price for a LASIK procedure, they should know if care before the surgery and after it is over are covered. A person will want to know if the price includes all of the tests that will be performed on them during their initial LASIK consultation. People will want to know if the price includes any enhancements if their vision regresses after the procedure is done. Some surgeons provide their patients enhancement procedures for a lifetime at no charge. Others provide their patients with a fee schedule.
Surgeon Experience
The amount of experience a surgeon has will influence the cost of a LASIK procedure. A surgeon who has been practicing for a long period of time, and has done the procedure for years, will charge more than a surgeon who is new. The most experienced surgeons have been performing LASIK surgery since the 1990s when it became popular.
Technology Price
Many surgeons will quote a single price. This will usually mean using the latest technology such as customized wave front or laser-created flaps. Using them will not result in a separate price or paying for an extra. Other surgeons will provide different pricing based on the technology a person is willing to pay to be used.
Insurance Plans
Since LASIK is an elective surgery, it is not often covered by a person’s insurance plan. There are some large insurance companies, as well as membership-based businesses, that have negotiated discounts for their members when it comes to LASIK procedures. This discount can be as much as 10 percent of the total cost.
Health Accounts
There are some employers who offer their employees health insurance using a health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) or a flexible spending account (FSA). The cost of LASIK may be eligible to be paid using one of these types of accounts. It may even be possible to deduct the cost of the procedure as a major medical expense. Anyone considering doing this should speak with a tax professional first.
Creative Financing
Some surgeons will permit their patients to pay for their LASIK procedure with a monthly payment. Others have chosen to borrow money from a financial institution. Some have been able to pay for their procedure using a rewards-bearing credit card. These payment methods need to be discussed with a surgeon before using them.
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