Is surgery expensive?
There is no universal standard regarding the cost of refractive eye surgery. For example, some centers charge less than $1,000 per eye for LASIK, while others charge more than $2,000 per eye. Also, there can be variation in what a quoted price will include.
Price for Eye Operation
A leading refractive industry newsletter reported that the average price of LASIK was $1,556 in the first quarter of 2002. The average price has been relatively stable for the past five quarters. About 68% of procedures were in the $1,201-$1,800 range; 11% were less expensive than that, and 21% were more expensive. The newsletter's information is based on a survey of 286 surgeons.
Prices coming together
In general, LASIK prices on the low end have been rising, and prices on the high end have been falling. For example, the LasikPlus chain reports that their average fee per procedure in the first quarter of 2002 was $1066; one year earlier that figure was $897.
On the high end, independent market research indicates that in the first quarter of 2002, 21% of procedures cost $1,801 or more. A year ago, 28% of procedures were in that range.
The price consolidation trend has been fueled, in part, by the demise of several discount LASIK centers, who offered procedures for as low as $399 — but eventually went out of business.
What are the costs for the clinic really?
A $100-$150 royalty fee to the excimer laser manufacturer, who must recoup its costs to develop the machine;
Surgical devices such as microkeratomes or corneal ring segments;
Gowns, masks, gloves and other items for keeping the operation sterile;
Overhead for the surgery center, which includes personnel salaries, rent, office equipment, administration and advertising;
Insurance;
And the surgeon's fee.
Also included in most fees are the pre-op evaluation meeting, comprehensive eye examination, follow-up office visits, and standard medications.
Many surgeons also offer free "touch-up" surgery if it is warranted. Often a team of doctors reviews your case to determine this, and their time is included in the fee.
Before signing up for operation, ask this:
What is included?
What is not included?
What will I have to pay for if complications occur or enhancement surgery becomes necessary?
How much do prescription medications (such as anti-inflammatories or painkillers) cost?
If I require temporary contact lenses or glasses after the procedure, how much will they cost?
How many follow-up visits will I need to make, and at what cost?
Defraying Eye Surgery Cost: Insurance and Financing
Most insurance plans don't cover refractive surgery because they consider it cosmetic. However, some employers make arrangements with a given LASIK center (or refractive surgery center) for a special price. Also, you may qualify for a tax deduction for refractive surgery, so check with an accountant.
Don't go for the cheapest
You may be tempted to choose a surgeon based only on the fee charged, but this is not smart. What is better is to choose the best surgeon you can find and then, if you need it, get the most affordable financing you can.
Financing is available for LASIK and other vision surgeries. Several financing companies specialize in elective procedures, and offer plans with fixed rates and long-term payments. Most LASIK, LASEK surgery centers and private medical practices work with one of these companies to offer a financing plan to their patients.
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