It would be wonderful to be able to provide a pat answer to the LASIK pricing question! But there are many things that influence the cost of LASIK in 2020 besides inflation. However, for the purposes of simple discussion, we’ll dig into the national average, as well as what factors affect what you can expect to pay for laser eye surgery.
Note that most reputable practices will include in their pricing the following: pre- and post-surgical examinations and care; surgery and surgical medications; and follow-up procedures—called enhancements—to help you achieve the correction you expected. Individual practice will set their own pricing for these assets, but other factors will also influence LASIK affordability.
LASIK Surgery Prices in 2020
You may be aware that there are several laser surgery options available for which costs can vary greatly. The national average stands at about $2,200 per eye, but we should break down that vague figure.
On the low end, standard (or “conventional”) LASIK and bladed LASIK are among the most affordable laser eye surgeries at $995 to just under $1,700 per eye. The introduction of bladeless Custom- Wavefront technology immediately bumps up that pricing into the $2,000 to $2,300 range, and other procedures can cost much more.
It goes without saying that the type of procedure indicated for a patient’s vision correction needs will largely dictate the cost range. It would be too complicated to enumerate all the prices and external influences on them. Instead, we’ll point out the biggest general LASIK price-influencers:
- Location, location, location
- Experience and training
- Investment in equipment and technology
- Time with your doctor and medical staff
Location and LASIK Cost
Where you live can be one of the most powerful drivers of surgery costs. Patients in cities like New York, San Francisco or Washington D.C. will automatically pay more for just about everything, thanks to the overall high cost of living in these heavily populated urban areas. By contrast, the low cost-of-living Midwest generally delivers goods and services at a much lower cost, including medical care, even if every other factor is identical.
LASIK Experience and Training
Well-trained surgeons with experience in refractive surgery naturally—and rightfully—command a higher fee than a recent graduate with relatively few laser surgeries under his or her belt. Continuing education, participation in clinical trials and investment in staff training will also influence pricing. It is not inexpensive to maintain ongoing medical education; expect the cost of your eye surgery to reflect the dedication to continuing education. The care you get will be worth it.
LASIK Equipment Costs
The latest, most advanced laser technology helps your laser eye surgeon deliver vision correction more safely and effectively than ever. Your surgeon will employ this technology both in your diagnosis and your vision correction treatment … but these sophisticated machines don’t come cheap! Ask your prospective refractive surgeon about the technology used in his/her practice and how it is used to best advantage. Most patients are happy to invest in quality care when it comes to their eyesight.
Finally, ask your surgeon and staff what access you will have to them before and after your refractive surgery. Ensure that your surgeon will spend the time explaining your options and course of treatment, and that they will be available to you for follow-up questions and care.
Lake Lazer Eye Center has provided thousands of patients with life-changing vision correction, using sophisticated and safe technology. Learn more about our technology here, then use our online contact form to request a LASIK consultation.
