The Cost of LASIK and Financing Options to Consider
When it comes to treating common vision problems, LASIK surgery is one of the most sought after procedures in the world. By altering the shape of the cornea with a safe laser, refractive surgeons are able to remedy myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism in patients so that they can see without the assistance of corrective lenses (i.e., prescription contacts and glasses).
Yet many patients who visit our Salinas and Monterey eye care centers have questions about the cost of LASIK surgery. These are valid concerns, especially since LASIK is a major commitment and a change in people's lives. Let's take a brief moment to look at pricing and payment concerns surrounding LASIK.
What is the average cost of LASIK surgery?
Last year, the average cost of LASIK surgery in America was approximately $2,000 per eye.
Please note that this is NOT necessarily what we will charge for your LASIK surgery. It is merely a number based on a nationwide average of refractive surgery centers in 2012. Our ophthalmologists and eye doctors in Monterey and Salinas will provide you with a customized price quote during your consultation.
Factors That Will Determine the Cost of LASIK
Some of the factors that will affect the cost of your LASIK surgery include:
- Geographic location of the practice
- The LASIK surgeons at the practice
- The eye care technology used at the practice
- The complexity of your case
- Special promotions and offers specific to a practice
Insurance Coverage and LASIK Surgery
In general, Monterey LASIK surgery is not covered by health insurance since it is considered an elective procedure.
In very rare instances, health insurance companies will cover LASIK, but only if there is no other viable option for vision correction. One example is if a person has suffered an injury or deformity that makes it difficult to wear glasses and/or contact lenses. This is obviously a rare instance that most people do not experience.
Financing Options and Payment Plans for LASIK
If a person is unable to cover the total cost of LASIK upfront, it is possible to use financing plans to pay for the procedure. LASIK financing uses trusted third parties to pay for the total cost of LASIK. The patient is then responsible for paying back the lender on a monthly basis.
While this option is not for everyone, many who have chosen to use financing plans enjoy the fact these these options allow them to budget ahead as needed.
Alternatives to Consider for Effective Eye Care
If you decide that LASIK is not an ideal option for you -- whether it's a cost concern or an issue with the procedure and its potential side effects/complications -- do not fret. There are plenty of options out there for eye care treatment, such as contact lenses or prescription glasses from our optical center.
Schedule a Consultation for LASIK Vision Correction
As you can see, there are many options for payment, and also many options for treatment. More than anything, we want to make sure that all of our patients make decisions that they can be confident about. If you would like to learn more about any of the vision correction treatments that we offer, be sure to contact our eye care centers in Monterey and Salinas today. We look forward to the discussion we'll have together.