How to assess Lasik eye surgery costs

Unfortunately, there are no clear rules to follow, and costs vary widely between regions, practitioners, and clinics.

Probably the only real constant is that prices are quoted per eye.

Another constant - the cost of lasik eye surgery has been going up for some time, although there are signs prices have stabilized. As a rough guide, the average cost is roughly $2000 per eye. Prices are highest on the West Coast and in the Northeast.

“Ability to pay” explains some of the price differences; prices will obviously be higher in the richer areas.

Custom lasik

Prices are also going up because of greater use of new and more expensive technology, in what is called “custom lasik”.

For instance, a clinic that uses wavefront technology to determine the aberrations in the eye’s visual field will add anything up to $500 per eye to the bill.

Some surgeons use IntraLase (a type of laser) to create the Lasik flap rather than a blade. The benefits are fewer complications, fewer “retreatments” and better visual acuity. But this also increases the cost of laser eye surgery by between $250 and $500 per eye.

Initial screening and pre-operative testing is important, helps avoid problems - and adds to the costs.

Clinics have to cover their normal operating costs and maintain a range of equipment. They have to pay royalties to the laser manufacturers, cover their overheads and of course make a profit.

Besides offering a highly-desirable service, clinics and surgeons also run a business.

Make sure you read the fine print. Make sure you understand all the processes and procedures that are being quoted, and make sure they are inclusive and fully-disclosed.

Your total laser eye surgery costs should include fees for any subsequent prescriptions, any special glasses or lenses, and the cost of follow-up visits.