What's the catch with Lasik for $599/eye?

Obviously the bargain Lasik deals are a scam somehow... what's the truth? How can they afford to offer LASIK at those prices? I heard once that they use old machines.

3 answers to “What's the catch with Lasik for...”

A: LASIK pricing

Jon Dishler, MD

When applied to another medical procedure, this seems absurd, and it is not prudent to make a decision for something this important based only on price. That being said, it is usually a bait and switch type of offer, please read the fine print that says STARTING at $595 or some other price. This is usually not... more

A: Bargain basement LASIK

Gary Kawesch, MD

The surgery might be $599, but the preop anesthetic drops will cost you $1500. Seriously though, in life, you get what you pay for. This holds true in eye surgery. I tell patients you wouldn't buy a bargain-bin pacemaker or parachute. The come-on pricing you often see with LASIK is laden with asterisks and... more

A: Too good to be true pricing for LASIK

Steven Dell, MD

Discount laser centers typically use older technology that is much less expensive. These places can also have less medical safety protocols and quality control. Just like with other surgeries, you get what you pay for with LASIK. They also have a tendency to advertise a price that only applies to miniscule... more

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