A Breakdown of the Average Lasik Surgery Cost?

Answer 1

Just as with any other surgical procedure, the typical cost of Lasik surgery is determined by a variety of factors. With Lasik, the cost is quoted per eye. Sometimes, the actual price will be more than the quoted one due to unanticipated follow-up appointments or extensive correction. Patients will also need preoperative tests, which increases the overall price. Although patients can have Lasik surgery for as little as $500 USD per eye, most surgeons will not perform this procedure for any less than $1,000 USD per eye.

New Technology Influences Costs

Lasik surgery costs have steadily risen over the years thanks to the integration of new surgical procedures and technologies. For instance, Lasik performed with IntraLase is a lot more costly as opposed to Lasik with Microkeratome. During an IntraLase procedure, a laser is used to cut a flap in the eye and during a Microkeratome surgery, a blade is utilized for creating a flap. IntraLase procedures tend to cost $350 USD more per eye than their Microkertome counterparts.

Other Factors That Dictate Price

The cost of using testing and operating equipment will vary depending on the equipment itself. Some examples of Lasik equipment and tests include corneal thickness measurements, corneal topography, tear film analysis equipment and tracking. And of course, the Lasik laser will influence the cost of surgery.

There are more fees that play a role into the price Lasik patients incur. Surgeons will pass on the price of laser lease and maintenance to the patient. If Microkeratome blades or corneal ring segments are needed, the patient will also be charged for those. In addition, the patient will also have to pay for gloves, masks, gowns and medication. Sometimes, the surgeon will charge extra to cover the costs of office overhead and staff salaries, monthly rent, office administration, malpractice insurance and office equipment, which are usually charged in the guise of a "surgeon fee."

The Maximum Cost of Lasik

Currently, the price of Lasik surgery can run as high as a $2,000-$2,500 USD price range per eye. The final cost will depend on each eye's condition, the included procedures for vision correction, pre-surgical tests, follow-up visits and any necessary subsequent surgeries.