Is LASIK Affordable?

When you’re trying to determine if LASIK is right for you, one of the natural considerations is cost. It is important to know that here at Providence Eye & Laser Specialists, the cost of LASIK and PRK vision correction surgery does not depend on how bad your vision is, and we do not charge extra to correct astigmatism. However, if you are not a candidate for LASIK or PRK, your surgeon may recommend another type of procedure, such as Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) or EVO Implantable Collamer Lens ( EVO ICL). Each of these procedures has a different cost but may be safer and more appropriate for your situation.

What’s Included in the Cost of LASIK?

Before undertaking any kind of elective surgery, it’s important to understand what’s involved and what’s included in the actual cost of the procedure. At Providence Eye, we take the time to review every aspect of what you can expect from your experience with us. It starts with a comprehensive, two-hour free consultation with your surgeon, not a technician or optometrist. We strive to make this a relaxed, educational and conversational experience where you have all of your questions answered. If, after your consultation, you decide that LASIK is something you want to pursue at Providence Eye, our costs include:

• Comprehensive pre-treatment consultation with your surgeon
• Your procedure with the WaveLight® FS200 and WaveLight® EX500 with optional Contoura Vision®
• One year of post-operative exams
• Lifetime Enhancement Policy (provided to you in writing)
  • First year – no charge
  • Thereafter – royalty fee plus cost of materials

Is LASIK Covered by Insurance?

Because it is considered elective surgery, insurance does not typically cover LASIK but may cover prescriptions associated with the procedure. Some vision plans offer nominal discounts, so you should review your benefits. If offered by your employer, you can take advantage of your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Savings Account (FSA), which are pre-tax accounts that can be used for medical expenses. Additionally, Providence Eye accepts MasterCard, Visa, Discover and bank checks.

Are Financing Options Available?

At Providence Eye, we are proud to partner with Wells Fargo and Care Credit to offer financing as an option for a portion, or all, of your procedure costs. If you decide that LASIK and our team at Providence Eye are the right choices for you, then our goal is to work with you and provide as much flexibility as possible. 0% interest programs with Wells Fargo and Care Credit give you up to 18 months to pay for your procedure in monthly payments.

How Would My Investment in LASIK Compare to Continued Glasses or Contact Use?

Determining the costs of LASIK versus lifelong use of prescription glasses or contacts would depend on a number of factors. Certainly, there are significant costs over time connected to contacts and prescription glasses when you consider purchasing lens solutions, designer frames, perhaps prescription sunglasses and regular eye doctor visits, not to mention the time investment. A study shared in the medical journal Clinical Ophthalmology reports that the average cost of LASIK would be similar to the financial investment in purchasing prescription glasses or contact lenses plus eye exams over eight to ten years.

Is Investing in LASIK Right for You?

If you’re interested in exploring the cost of LASIK at Providence Eye, we’re here to take the time to answer any questions you may have. A free consultation with one of our LASIK surgeons, Dr. Mozayeni or Dr. Nunnery, will go a long way towards helping us determine, together, the right option for your vision correction needs, along with the costs, whether that is LASIK or another option that may be better suited for your unique circumstances. Ultimately, it’s about what’s right for you, your vision and your lifestyle.