LASIK eye surgery is generally considered to be more
expensive than other more conventional surgical
procedures. This can in part be attributed to the use
of high-tech equipment such as lasers.

Having said that, I think it is worthwhile to mention
that the cost of LASIK continues to come down. This is
in part due to improvements being made to the overall
process, such as the use of more efficient and cheaper
lasers.

According to the FDA the average cost of LASIK eye
surgery was in the region of $1,344 in 2005. This is a
significant reduction from the original numbers listed
in 2002 of nearly $1,600.

However, be as it may, when deciding on the type of
LASIK eye surgery or surgeon, price should never be
the overriding factor. Remember you’re not buying
shoes you’re taking a risk, so why not take the best
calculated risk by going to someone who has built up
a good reputation?

Here are a few things that may help you understand
why the costs of LASIK laser surgery are high.

• The fee of leasing the building where the surgery
is located

• The leasing or purchase of the laser as well as
maintenance of the blades or lasers can increase LASIK
cost. Surgeons may also be upgrading to newer and more
efficient lasers.

• There may be additional, per eye fees to be paid to
the developer or manufacturer of the laser, if the
machine is leased.

• You may need special gowns, masks, gloves,
medications, or surgical solutions to keep the
operating room sterile and safe.

• There may be Advertising and insurance for the
office.

When you are considering different LASIK surgery
options it may be a good idea to ask your surgeon the
following:

• What is and what isn’t included in the cost of the
LASIK eye surgery?

• What if complications occur or if enhancements are
needed. Will I be charged and if so, how much?

• What about the cost of LASIK medications such as
anti-inflammatory or painkillers?

• Will I need temporary contact lenses after LASIK?
Are they included in the cost or will they be paid for
separately?

• What about follow-up visits after LASIK? What are
the costs if they are not included in the fee for the
surgery?

Don’t forget to contact your insurance company to
determine if they cover the cost of LASIK laser
surgery. Some insurance companies don’t cover the cost
of LASIK because they see it as a cosmetic enhancement.

If financing is not a problem you should strongly
consider using a LASIK surgeon who best fits your
needs and addresses your concerns.

For those who already had successful LASIK
procedures, the cost of LASIK laser eye surgery is a
small price to pay compared to the joy offered by
their newly improved vision.

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