How Much Does LASIK Eye Surgery Cost?

Thinking about having your eyes corrected? How about doing a search for 'How much does LASIK eye surgery cost'? Done that? Too many answers? Here's the definitive one - from $2000 to $2500 per eye.

There are, however, quite a few variables, but the price should still not vary too much from that. In terms of variables, different charges will be applied depending on how short or long sighted you are, and actually how healthy your eyes are, how thick your corneas are etc. Both eyes may differ in cost. One thing to remember though, is avoid both paying too much, but also too little, as we explain later.

One LASIK procedure equals one eye. That means double the quoted price if your doctor uses the word procedure instead of procedures - even if both eyes will be repaired the same day.

In terms of technology, an extra fee may be charged if you opt for more groundbreaking technology, e. G. Bladeless LASIK or wavefront.

Bladeless LASIK, as the name states, does not use the traditional blade to cut and lift the flap from the cornea of the eye. Instead, a special type of laser cleanly cuts through the matter. This is quoted as being better than the physical blade as the blade may oscillate whilst cutting or create a ragged edge to the flap, which may open the way for complications. Do talk to your physician, though, as both methods have their pros and cons.

Wavefront technology truly does sound futuristic. First the doctor must see if you are eligible to have it. If you are, then a test is carried out with the technology to precisely calibrate your eyes to focus and receive rays of light. The machine then forms a 3-dimensional image of your eye, which alters the surgical procedure to correct any errors your eyes may have. This means that not only is your vision improved, but also the quality of your vision.

With most advertising on the US market, there are scams around, so beware. One of the most common with LASIK surgery is the super-cheap offer - a couple of hundred dollars per procedure. Read the terms - which you'll probably need X-ray vision for because that's what the fine print will state you need to have in order to be eligible. If you have either short or long sight, expect to pay a few thousand dollars more.

There are financing options available to pay for the operation, so do check out the terms in your chosen surgery. If at all possible, pay a large deposit, and pay back the amount as quickly as possible - say, in 3 or 4 months, otherwise massive interest rates may rack up the end price.

In the end, having corrective eye surgery is not necessary, is it? Contact lenses seem to be cheaper and cheaper, and your old specs will last a while longer yet. Although procedures don't seem to be getting cheaper, they aren't getting more expensive - at least one good side effect of the financial crisis, so now is a great time to go for it.