How Much Does LASIK Cost? The National Average Cost

So, you’re considering LASIK surgery? There are many things to take into consideration when deciding if LASIK is right for you. Is your prescription stable? Are you an ideal candidate? Who is the best surgeon? How much does LASIK cost? Is the cost of LASIK surgery a good investment for me?

How Much Does LASIK Cost in the United States?

In the United States, the national average cost of LASIK eye surgery in 2020 was $2,632 per eye, according to a 2021 report in Clinical Ophthalmology. While the national average is a good starting point, it’s essential that you find out what your actual LASIK cost will be at the practice you are considering. Once you know the cost of LASIK surgery from a trusted practice, evaluate the return on investment (ROI) both financially and in terms of lifestyle enhancement. So how do you know how much your LASIK surgery will cost, and why do you often see ads promoting discounts on eye surgery?

The first step in evaluating a practice for LASIK eye surgery is to make sure you are comparing apples to apples. Patients should be thoroughly evaluated by at least two surgeons before selecting the one to perform their surgery. You should be very picky. After all, we are talking about surgery on your eyes!

Patients should also compare LASIK price quotes to ensure they are not being blindsided by hidden fees, such as those for a higher prescription, astigmatism, post-operative care plans or enhancement plans, etc.

How To Determine the Cost of Your LASIK Surgery

Now that you understand the various pricing models for LASIK surgery, it is important that you conduct research to determine what the cost of LASIK surgery will be for you. When evaluating the cost of LASIK surgery, it’s vital that you find a practice that understands your unique situation, including your vision, lifestyle and your finances. You also want to make sure you trust the surgeon with your eyes. This last point is especially important since you want to make sure the practice is taking all your vision and health concerns into consideration, and that your consultation is with the actual surgeon that is performing your procedure, not an optometrist or a technician.

Patients should research different practices and have a comprehensive LASIK consultation with at least two LASIK surgeons (not optometrists or technicians) before selecting the right fit. Knowing how much LASIK costs can be challenging since it varies based on the practice, technology and expertise. Some practices may require you to come in for a consultation to calculate your cost for LASIK surgery based on your prescription or what “plan” you choose. On the other hand, some practices, including Providence Eye & Laser Specialists, have a flat pricing structure, providing patients with a straightforward answer over the phone.

Consider these tips when discussing the cost of LASIK surgery with practices:

• Look beyond the price tag: ensure you understand what is included in the quoted price to make sure it is an apples-to-apples comparison.
• Ask about the technology that will be used to make the flap during the LASIK procedure. Will it be a blade (microkeratome) or a laser?
• If a laser will be used, inquire about the specific type. Several advancements have been made since the release of the original IntraLase. Providence Eye & Laser Specialists introduced the IntraLase laser to Charlotte back in 2003 but has since replaced it with the advanced proven WaveLight FS200 laser.
• Clarify the frequency and nature of the postoperative appointments, will your surgeon be readily available if necessary and inquire if there is an enhancement policy that will care for you in the future should you have any unexpected vision changes.
• Look carefully at the pricing structure and ask questions to avoid any hidden fees or “starting at” prices.
• Consider the lifetime value of LASIK versus the one-time LASIK cost.
• Trust your gut: take time to make sure you feel good about making this investment in your vision, you need to look into the eyes of your potential surgeon and listen to your heart and your ‘gut’ to determine if this is the surgeon you trust to do your LASIK surgery.

How much does LASIK cost? Price Comparison

In the charts below, we have provided insights into the cost of LASIK surgery and outlined the offerings at Providence Eye & Laser.

This first chart compares the costs of LASIK surgery versus a lifetime of contact lenses or glasses. We think you’ll quickly see the return on investment (ROI) in LASIK eye surgery.

The second chart outlines what is included in the cost of LASIK surgery at Providence Eye & Laser. We will never surprise you with hidden fees like other practices do. Instead, we will clearly communicate the flat-rate LASIK price upfront. We also do not increase the cost of LASIK surgery if you have astigmatism or a higher prescription.

At Providence Eye & Laser Specialists, we believe in being transparent about pricing. There are no surprises or hidden fees. We understand that the cost of LASIK surgery is an important consideration, and we want you to make informed decisions, both medically and financially.