What You Need To Know About Lasik Vision Surgery Costs.

Over the past few years the cost for just about every medical procedure has gone up faster than you can imagine. You’ve most likely seen this cost show up in your monthly insurance premiums. While this has happened for just about every other type of surgery, lasik vision seems to have bucked this trend. Costs for laser vision correction have remained very stable.

When you shop around for lasik surgery and see prices advertised, keep in mind these prices are per eye. If you’re having both eyes done (as most people do) the cost will double. Over the past year the prices has remained fairly consistent between $2000 and $2200 per eye. Some doctors with additional training or newer equipment will pass those costs on to your, the patient, and you’ll see prices closer to $2500. This additional cost may be worth it for you, but do shop around.

If you live in a more rural area, you may find prices slightly lower than these averages. At the same time, you may not have the latest equipment available to you. This may not matter in your decision; after all, 5 year old equipment worked just fine 5 years ago when it was cutting edge. If you do want to get the latest advances at the most affordable cost, it may be advantageous for you to look at the closest metropolitan area for your surgery. Because the recovery time is so mild and relatively quick, some people will make a semi-vacation out of the surgery. A Friday surgery, weekend recovery and then a few days to explore the city with your new set of eyes.

There have been some advances in lasik technology that could affect the cost of your laser eye correction. One of the biggest changes is something called “bladeless” lasik or IntraLase. Typically, a sharp blade or scalpel will be used to open the cornea. This is then folded over and a laser is used to remove or “shave” off the correct amount in order to properly correct your vision. With bladeless lasik, a laser is also used to precisely remove the cornea rather than a scalpel. This will add to the cost of your laser vision correction.

Be very wary of anyone offering lasik at prices that just “seem” too low. These bargain prices have been the subject of several investigations and lawsuits in several states. In one particular case out of Florida, a lasik office was fined by the state and ordered to correct their misleading advertising. What they’ll typically do is quote a very low price for you, require a non-refundable deposit and then hit you with all the “extras” such as anesthesia, post operative exams, facility charges and more. These are clearly items that are not optional. Once they have your deposit, there’s no backing out. Be very careful of anyone trying to do the same type of arm twisting.

Lasik vision is usually done in a matter of minutes and seems to be all done by a computer operated machine. So, why the high cost? There’s a lot that is included including, obviously a nice profit for the doctors. Office space, medical supplies, staffing, advertising and even a royalty fee is needed. The company that invented this technology is typically paid over $150 in licensing fees. Don’t forget liability insurance for the doctors. That’s always a requirement with any medical procedure.

Because lasik vision surgery is normally not covered by your insurance, the costs can be prohibitive. Many doctors are combating this by carrying their own loans. If you qualify, you can get a great deal with zero down payment and zero interest. If you’re offered this, make sure you read the fine print as you would before signing any loan document. If you make your payments on time and pay off the loan as schedules it’s a great deal.

As tempting as it may be, do not let the cost of your surgery dictate where you end up going. Of course, if a doctor falls way outside of the average for your area, you’ll want to keep shopping around. Find the best doctor you possibly can within a price range that’s affordable for you. These are your eyes you’re dealing with and it’s not a place to pinch pennies.