What is the Average Cost of Lasik Eye Surgery?

The average cost of Lasik eye surgery depends on many factors. As such, do not be easily taken in by advertisements claiming Lasik eye surgery for as low as $500. The truth is, there is only one thing that is for sure when it comes to Lasik eye surgery costs - any quoted amount will be per eye.

Lasik Price Trend - It's Going Up!

In 2002, the average price for a Lasik eye surgery was estimated to be from $1,550 to $1,600. By October the following year, the figure increased to $1,710; and by the end 2004, Lasik eye surgery prices were just over $1,800. In 2005, average prices were recorded at $1,965.

In 2003, in a study conduced by the journal Review of Ophthalmology, it was also found that where you get Lasik eye surgery done affects the price of the operation. The study, based on responses by 67 surgeons all across the US, revealed that although the average cost of Lasik eye surgery was the same throughout the US, the difference between the minimum and maximum prices were great. The minimum price was below $1,000, while the maximum price was recorded at almost $3,000.

What Is Covered by Lasik Eye Surgery Costs?

Following is a quick rundown of the items that are covered by the average cost of Lasik eye surgery.

• The fees of the doctor who will carry out the procedure (i.e., if he/she is not a staff member of the establishment).


• Any royalty fees due to the excimer laser manufacturer, who must of course recoup the costs of developing the machine; this can cost anywhere from $100 to $150.


• Any royalty fees that need to be provided to the laser manufacturer for any custom surgery; this can cost anywhere from $145 to $250 per eye.


• Any equipment necessary to ensure that the eye surgery is conducted under strict sterile conditions (e.g., mask, gloves, etc.).


• Surgical solutions and medication required for the operation.


• Insurance.

It should also be noted that there are different types of technology that can be used in a Lasik eye surgery, each with its own corresponding price of course. For instance, Lasik utilizing IntraLase (laser) is considerably more costly than traditional Lasik (which uses microkeratome blades). Custom Lasik, which makes use of wavefront technology, is also more expensive than traditional Lasik.

It is acknowledged that price plays a big role on whether one decides to go for this procedure or not. However, don't just base your decision on the average cost of Lasik eye surgery. Ensuring that you have a reliable doctor and the best equipment for the surgery is your best bet at having a successful Lasik eye operation.