The True Cost of LASIK Surgery
LASIK Costs
Laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK), is eye surgery using eximer lasers changing the shape of the cornea, reducing or eliminating the need for eye glasses and/or contact lenses. The treatment of choice for those who are nearsighted, farsighted, and astigmatism patients. The three treatment methods used are the traditional micro-keratotomy, wavefront guided, and wavefront optimized (which does not require the use of a blade).
Two eye specialists in Europe found that LASIK eye surgery patients had less discomfort and a faster recovery if a flap of the outer layer of the cornea was lifted with an oscillating razor (oscillating-a rapidly swishing blade that assists in a precision cut). The inner layer of the eye is treated with a cold beam of blue light, (laser), and the flap is returned to its position, serving as a bandage for the incision.
Pricing considerations for LASIK surgery include the cost of the procedure, pre- and post-operative visits; and the cost of re-treatments. The LasikPlus program offers what is called a "Lifetime Satisfaction Plan," which includes free lifetime enhancements, unlimited post-operative checkups (for the first year), and a patient assistance guarantee at no additional charge in the event of vision deterioration.
IntraLASIK is a computer-guided high-precision bladeless beam. Both eyes can be done the same day. The process, called IntraLase®, takes about 20 minutes to complete and costs an average of $2,100 to $2,300 per eye. The bladed process (called 'microkeratome') costs a little over $1,700 per eye.
Low cost LASIK myths
Low LASIK price myths
LASIK and other types of custom LASIK surgeries are considered safe and effective. When performed by an experienced LASIK surgeon, the results of LASIK surgery is very predictable for patients that set realistic goals for the eyesight corrective procedures. The most important role of a LASIK eye surgery clinic is to make for certain that you are a good candidate for LASIK. The bad part, is low price LASIK ads influencing potential patients when they make their decisions.
The basic perception that is wrong is that a customer thinks that just because it's advertised at a low cost, that that will be the price the customer gets. Often times, these low prices are used to get you in the door. Usually they neglect to disclose other charges involved or conditions a patient has to meet to get the low price that they advertised.
By neglecting to disclose these conditions or extra services, they get you in the door, cleverly hiding the fine print.
Basic guidelines when your evaluating LASIK prices:
- Do not agree to give a deposit that not refundable. Many clinics request a non refundable despoit as a way to get in you in the door so that you can be upsold a higher costing procedure. Providing a credit card over the phone or internet will make you feel obligated. This is a very common practice when low LASIK price is advertised. Normally, you don't have to pay to find out what your LASIK procedure will be.
- Be clear that the low LASIK price includes follow up visits. It's not appropriate to only have a couple visits. If you wait to discover any problems, most likely that they have already become severe than if you were being watched over and observed though regular visits. You don't know what to expect and how to feel afterward, so it's unrealistic for you to diagnose yourself if something is wrong. Because of this. your follow up visits should be scheduled and fees should be included in your initial quote upfront.
- Be clear that your quoted low LASIK price, includes your prescription. When these LASIK clinics advertise a low LASIK price, they usually are cutting corners and prescriptions are usually part of the corners being cut. Not including this in your price means that byt he time you factor in this additional pricing for prescriptions, your price will be that of your 'average' LASIK cost.
- Be clear that the low LASIK price advertised, included providing necessary enhancements within a year at least after your LASIK treatment. Nearly all enhancement, if it was needed, will be performed within the first year of your LASIK treatment.
The best approach for you with local and trusted LASIK surgeons.
LASIK is becoming more affordable and available to everyone taking advantage of multiple monthly payments. Best thing to do is to choose a LASIK surgeon based on recommendations and reputation. You will see the clinic's professionalism when you visit during a consultation. Have in you mind a payment plan that's comfortable for you. The clinic staff will be able to help you select an extended payment plan that fits your budget. Usually, these plans do not require a deposit or money upfront. A trustworthy LASIK surgeon will select the best procedure for you based on your vision goals.
LASIK Price: What prices are realistic?
LASIK surgeon consultation
Many LASIK eye surgery in the US are seeing a stabilized pricing range for LASIK surgery. With many people diagnosed with astigmatism, myopia, and hyperopia, many are opting for LASIK eye surgery. The main drawback is the perception that the price of LASIK is out of reach for the general population. However, with the price stabilizing within the recent years, LASIK prices have been much more down to earth and within reach of anyone looking to correct their eyesight.
According to a survery done early 2009, the median cost for LASIK surgery is:
- $2,100 for a single eye LASIK surgery costs
- $1,600 for non-customized LASIK w/out Wavefront Analysis
- $2,400 for LASIk w/Wavefront Analysis
As stated in previous posts, these prices are an average and may fluctuate depending on the area of the country you are in. Also, these prices are expected to decrease within the next year or 2. With a price range like this, many LASIK clinics have adopted multiple payment plan options, so be sure to ask your surgeon during your consultation if these prices are out of range.