How Much Does LASIK Cost?

Question: How Much Does LASIK Cost?

Answer: Depending on the type of procedure being performed, LASIK usually costs between $2,000 to $5,000. Various laser centers will differ in cost, but not quite as much as the public thinks. Many of the lower fees quoted are simply bait and switch techniques, or they may be using an older, outdated laser.

Costs also vary depending on the surgeon performing the procedure. Keep in mind that the LASIK surgeon is the most important factor in your surgery outcome. (Your choice of surgeon should not be based on cost.) Experienced eye surgeons well-known in the LASIK community will generally be more expensive than lesser-known surgeons.

Although most insurance companies consider LASIK to be an elective treatment and do not cover the procedure, many surgeons offer no-interest financing to help with the cost. LASIK financing is sometimes available if you can’t afford to make the full price up front. Financing will allow you to break the total cost into smaller monthly payments according to your personal budget. If you need help financing the cost of LASIK, consider the following sources:

• CareCredit:
  CareCredit offers short-term, no-interest financing plans and low-interest, extended-payment plans.
• Capital One Healthcare Finance:
  Capital One Healthcare Finance provides patients with financing to cover the cost of laser eye surgery procedures, including LASIK. Capital One offers fixed interest rates, in addition to interest-free loans for qualified applicants.

When researching finance companies, be sure to check the interest rates. Some credit card companies may offer lower interest rates, or may be just as affordable.

Another option for financing LASIK is to use a flexible spending account (FSA). With FSAs, you can save for LASIK in a tax-free way: you can use pre-tax income to pay for medical expenses. By depositing a portion of your salary into a tax-free account, you will have an interest-free LASIK funding program.