How Much Does LASIK Eye Surgery Cost in 2024?

With its ability to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) eye surgery is one of the most popular vision correction surgeries in the United States for those seeking clear vision without relying on corrective eyewear. The cost of LASIK hasn’t changed much despite advancements in technology, quality, and precision since the Federal Food and Drug Administration approved the procedure in 1999; it remains an investment for many people today. For most patients, though, the LASIK procedure is worth the value. Here’s what you need to know about the cost of LASIK eye surgery in 2024.

What Influences the Cost of LASIK Eye Surgery?

The average cost of LASIK eye surgery varies greatly and can range between $1,500 to $4,000 per eye. Several factors may influence the price:

• The geographical location can largely impact cost; urban centers and areas with a higher cost of living may have higher-priced services than rural areas.
• Technology and customized options. Innovations in LASIK technology have led to more precise and tailored treatments. Procedures utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and advanced techniques to customize and enhance results, like wavefront-guided or topography-guided LASIK, may come with a higher cost.
• Current eye prescription strength. In some instances, patients with stronger eye prescriptions may see higher costs than those with weaker prescriptions.
• Surgeon expertise and brand recognition. Highly skilled LASIK surgeons with extensive experience and a renowned reputation may set higher fees.
• Overhead costs. LASIK eye surgeons who lease equipment may charge a higher rate compared to those who own the technology and may be able to pass cost savings along to their patients.

When comparing costs, be cautious of the exceptional bargain prices you may see advertised. They may seem enticing, but these prices are typically limited to mild nearsightedness corrections, apply only to procedures performed using older technology, and rarely include all fees.

What Does the Cost of LASIK Include?

The cost of LASIK eye surgery often includes:

• Pre- and post-operative eye exams for at least one year
• Facility and surgeon fees
• Follow-up visits for vision enhancements and refinements

Post-operative eye drops may be an additional cost; however, insurance typically covers these. During your consultation, request a written quote that itemizes included services, fees, and medications.

A Worthwhile Investment

For most patients, LASIK can lead to significant savings. Prescriptions, frames, lenses, contact lenses, solution and other supplies, and eye doctor visits can be costly over time and quickly exceed thousands of dollars within a few years. Our LASIK savings calculator can help you see what vision correction surgery may save you. While cost is a substantial consideration, the decision to undergo a laser eye surgery like LASIK should also factor in the potential benefits and improved quality of life it can provide.

Affordable Payment Options for Vision You Deserve

LASIK eye surgery is most often an elective procedure — not medically necessary — and is typically not covered by insurance companies. At Swagel Wootton Eye Institute, we believe every patient should have the opportunity to see clearly and offer several payment options. We offer financing through our preferred lenders, CareCredit and Alphaeon, which provide deferred interest for up to 24 months and flexible payment plans spread over 60 months for those who qualify. Health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs), often available through employer health plans, allow you to use pre-tax dollars to pay for medical expenses and can be used to offset the costs of vision correction surgery.

LASIK From Your Local Leaders in Eye Care

Our world-class eye doctors are committed to providing expert eye care and quality laser and lens-based vision correction. We pride ourselves on our accessibility and excellent standard of eye care to help you find the best vision correction option for your unique situation. Take our LASIK self-test to see if you could be a LASIK candidate or if one of our other refractive eye surgeries, like photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), refractive lens exchange (also known as clear lens exchange), or an implantable collamer lens might be right for you. Then, request your free consultation to learn more about LASIK eye surgery from Swagel Wootton Eye Institute. We look forward to helping you achieve the quality vision outcomes you deserve.