Lasik Costs

The cost of Lasik vision correction surgery does not come cheap. The price of your procedure can vary and depends on the area where you live, the type of procedure you choose and the extent of your vision problem. However, those considering the procedure can expect to pay at least $2,000. Since the Lasik procedure is considered to be elective, most insurance companies won't pay for the surgery. However, the good news is that most Lasik surgery centers offer some type of financing plan.

Paying The Price

You should always think about the cost before deciding to have Lasik surgery. Ask a lot of questions about your surgery and don't ever choose a doctor based just on the price. Find out what is included and not included in the price of the procedure.

Although most insurance companies will not pay for your Lasik procedure, it doesn't hurt to check with them just to make sure. And remember, some companies offer their employees a special discount when having Lasik surgery. Lasik surgery centers often work with a company to operate on their employees. If your company has a cafeteria or flex plan, find out if it will cover your Lasik procedure. Your company flex plan may just offer a spending plan that will help you pay or at least defray the cost of the Lasik surgery.

Another Lasik procedure payment option is to check with the Lasik center's finance plans. They can usually offer payment plans that will fit almost every budget. They may also work in partnership with banks or other loan centers to offer financing with low interest rates.

It is very important to work with your doctor to find out what is included in the cost of the Lasik procedure. After you've decided on a payment plan, following are some other things you will need to think about.

Appointments

After you know the total cost of your Lasik procedure, be sure that all your appointments are included in the price. You will have at least 5 appointments with your Lasik doctor. After the initial appointment and surgery, you will have at least 2 or 3 follow-up appointments. Although it is always good to double check, most Lasik centers do include the price of these appointments in their final billing.

Medications

After your Lasik surgery, you will probably be given special eye drops to use for several days. Although their cost is minimal, always check to see if the eye drops or any other necessary medications are a part of the final cost of the surgery. If you request a mild sedative to be used during your procedure, see if this is included in the price.

One Or Two Eyes?

Make sure that the price you are quoted reflects both eyes. Some advertisements make Lasik seem more affordable by announcing "Lasik for $500!" Be sure and read the fine print to see if this low price covers just one eye! Make sure your price quote includes the cost of having both eyes done.

Additional Surgeries

If you or your doctor chooses to have one eye done at a time, make sure you have the final price for both surgeries. Additional Lasik procedures are sometimes required if the outcome does not improve the vision. The price of these "repair" or "enhancement" surgeries is usually not reflected in the original quote, although some doctors won't charge extra as long as the additional procedure is done within a specified time frame. Some doctors will give their patients a reduced price for these additional Lasik procedures. It is always a good idea to find out if the price is included, as the need for these surgeries is common.

Ask Questions

Be sure to check with your eye care professional, asking many questions, before making the final decision regarding a Lasik surgery procedure. Understanding and knowing what is and is not included with the price of your procedure is very important. Remember that many experienced doctors now perform the Lasik procedure, so if you do not feel comfortable with the pricing package being offered, look around and do more research before making an appointment for any surgery.