LASIK Can Cost $50 to $5000 And Here's Why | Mira Health
LASIK Can Cost $50 to $5000 And Here's Why
The average cost of LASIK eye surgery without insurance is $2,385 per eye or $4,770 for both eyes. Other factors can increase the cost of the surgery, such as the technology used or the patient’s vision quality.
LASIK eye surgery is an outpatient procedure performed to correct one’s vision to 20/20 or better.
7 Different Types of LASIK Surgery
1. Traditional LASIK: $1,000 to $2,500 per eye
Traditional LASIK is the original form of surgery where a microkeratome, a handheld blade, is used to create a thin flap in the cornea. After lifting the flap, an excimer laser reshapes the underlying corneal tissue.
2. Custom LASIK (Wavefront LASIK): $2,000 and $3,000 per eye
Custom or Wavefront LASIK employs wavefront technology to generate a detailed map of the eye, enabling the surgeon to tailor the laser ablation process more precisely.
3. Bladeless LASIK (All-Laser LASIK): $2,000 to $4,000 per eye
This method utilizes a femtosecond laser instead of a microkeratome blade to create the corneal flap.
4. Topography-Guided LASIK
Uses detailed corneal topography maps to guide the laser for a highly customized treatment.
5. SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction): $2,500 and $4,000 per eye
A newer variation that removes a small lenticule-shaped piece of corneal tissue through a small incision without needing a flap.
6. LASEK and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
These alternatives do not involve creating a corneal flap, often recommended for patients with thin corneas.
7. Epi-LASIK
Similar to LASEK but uses an epikeratome device to separate the epithelial sheet.
The Cost of LASIK Eye Surgery
The average LASIK eye surgery costs $2,385 per eye. The cheapest was found at LASIK Pro Eye Consultants in Orlando for $1,950 per eye.
Cost of LASIK Eye Surgery Without Insurance At Different Clinics
| Clinic & Location | LASIK Cost Without Insurance (per eye) |
|---|---|
| Diamond Vision, New York City, New York | $2,200 |
| UCLA Health, Los Angeles, California | $2,500 |
| Kraff Eye Institute, Chicago, Illinois | $2,600 |
| LASIK Pro Eye Consultants, Orlando, Florida | $1,950 |
| Eye LASIK Austin, Austin, Texas | $2,675 |
Additional Costs of LASIK Eye Surgery
While LASIK costs are significant, additional costs may include:
Additional Costs to LASIK Eye Surgery
| Services | Average Cost Without Insurance |
|---|---|
| Annual Eye Exam | $100 - $200 |
| New Eyeglasses | $195 |
| Contact Lenses | $200-700 (per year) |
| Antibiotic Drops | $30 |
Beware of Bargains for LASIK Eye Surgery
Be cautious with advertisements claiming LASIK surgery for less than $1,000 per eye, as these may not include all costs associated with the procedure.
Cost of LASIK Abroad
Overseas LASIK surgery may offer savings, but ensure you consider all factors:
- India: $500 - $1,000 per eye
- Mexico: $1,000 - $1,800 per eye
- South Korea: $1,200 - $2,000 per eye
- Thailand: $700 - $1,500 per eye
- Turkey: $1,000 - $2,000 per eye
7 Alternatives To Consider
1. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): $1,000 to $2,500 per eye
2. LASEK (Laser-Assisted Subepithelial Keratectomy): $1,000 to $2,500 per eye
3. Epi-LASIK
4. AK (Astigmatic Keratotomy)
5. RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange)
6. Phakic Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
7. Non-Surgical Options
LASIK Eye Surgery Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is LASIK eye surgery?
Lasik surgery aims to restore the patient’s vision to 20/20 or better.
How long does LASIK eye surgery take?
Typically takes about 10-15 minutes per eye, with an overall office visit of 1-2 hours.
Is LASIK eye surgery always successful?
Success rates exceed 90% for achieving 20/20 vision.
Does insurance cover LASIK eye surgery?
Typically considered a cosmetic and elective procedure, insurance does not cover it, but HSAs and FSAs can be used.
What are the alternatives to LASIK eye surgery?
Other surgical alternatives include LASEK, Epi-LASIK, and Conductive Keratoplasty.