How Much Does LASIK Eye Surgery Cost?

While they may help you see the world around you, glasses can get foggy and contacts can get stuck (ouch!). But fast and permanent LASIK can mean clear vision without the struggle.

What Is LASIK?

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a vision correction surgery that can help with nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. The LASIK procedure reshapes the cornea (the clear front portion of the eye) and allows light to properly focus on the retina located in the back of the eye. One of the most frequently performed procedures in America, LASIK eye surgery only takes about 30 minutes to complete both eyes.¹

How Much Does LASIK Cost?

The average cost of LASIK surgery is around $2,600 per eye.² However, the final price a patient pays for LASIK eye surgery depends on various factors, including the experience and reputation of the surgeon and the type of technology used for the procedure.²

While it's not uncommon to see LASIK cost advertised for less than $1,000 per eye,² it's important to realize this kind of promotional price is often only to correct mild myopia or nearsightedness. In addition, it may not cover all the fees you might incur, or the discount may be due to the procedure utilizing older technology.²

Does Vision Insurance Cover LASIK Costs?

Laser eye surgery is typically classified as an elective procedure, which means vision insurance usually doesn't cover the cost.¹ Some insurance companies may cover LASIK if certain criteria are met. For example, it might be covered if a patient is unable to wear glasses or contacts due to a physical limitation.

How Can I Pay for LASIK Eye Surgery?

When it comes to paying for LASIK eye surgery there are several options you might consider.

• Out of pocket: If you have the funds readily available, you can use them to pay for the LASIK procedure.
• HSA or FSA: You may also be able to use a tax-free Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to pay for the LASIK procedure.
• Billing plan: Ask your provider about a billing plan; however, the majority of LASIK providers don't extend credit to patients through their practice where patients would receive bills from and pay the provider.
• Credit: General-purpose credit cards are commonly accepted, and the CareCredit credit card offers promotional financing on purchases of $200+ at providers in the CareCredit network.*

LASIK Results: What to Expect

After having the procedure, most people begin to experience results immediately and can expect their vision to continue to improve and stabilize over the next few days. While results vary — with some achieving only 20/40 vision or less¹ — most people achieve 20/20 vision or better² after having LASIK surgery.

Financing LASIK Eye Surgery With the CareCredit Credit Card

If you'd like to be less dependent on glasses or contact lenses, you may want to consider taking the first step to determine if you're a good candidate for LASIK eye surgery. Schedule an appointment for an eye exam and a pre-operative consultation with your eye doctor, who can review your eye health and answer your questions. Remember that the CareCredit credit card provides a convenient option for financing not only your LASIK consultation and procedure but other vision care too.^* Use our Acceptance Locator to find a vision specialist near you that accepts CareCredit. Continue to invest in your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to easily manage your account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

In addition to vision care, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, cosmetic, pet care, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments, and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?

Author Bio

Kristin Driver is a digital writer with Synchrony. She specializes in writing about health care, finances and pet care. Her work has been published by Cedars-Sinai, UCLA Health, Stanford Health Care, Risk & Insurance, Modern Health Care, Risk Insider, CIO Review and more.