How Much Does LASIK Cost?

The average cost of LASIK is $3,650, according to 228 reviews from RealSelf members. 

LASIK eye surgery to correct vision issues like farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism can cost anywhere from $2,300 to $6,000, depending on your surgeon’s technique, location, credentials, and a few more key factors. 

RealSelf Tip: While the average cost of LASIK is a few hundred dollars less than what most people pay for PRK laser eye surgery, PRK can be a better treatment option for patients who have thin corneas.

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Does insurance cover LASIK?

Most health insurance plans don’t cover LASIK because it’s an elective procedure. However, if laser vision correction is considered to be medically necessary in order to correct your eyesight after an unsuccessful surgery or injury, some insurance companies may cover all or part of the medical expenses. 

Before committing to LASIK, check with your health plan to see what they'll cover. Your eye doctor may also be able to advise you on any documentation to support your coverage claim.

What affects the cost of LASIK?

The price you'll pay for a LASIK procedure depends on a few key factors.

1) The level of vision correction you need

Most doctors charge more for vision correction surgery to correct a higher or more complex prescription, so the worse your vision, the more you’re likely to pay.

2) Your doctor’s technique and the type of technology they use

During LASIK eye surgery, your eye doctor will use a laser (like the femtosecond laser) or microkeratome blade (a thin oscillating metal blade operated by a machine) to separate the top layers of the cornea, making a thin flap. 

LASIK performed with a blade is usually more affordable than bladeless LASIK performed with a laser. 

Cutting-edge laser technology (such as custom LASIK, which utilizes wavefront technology) often costs more, simply because the device is more expensive. Some lasers even have a “click fee” or use fee that gets passed on to the patient. 

3) Your provider's credentials and level of experience 

You can expect to say more if your eye surgeon is board-certified ophthalmologist with years (or decades) of experience. Considering the risks of LASIK and how difficult it can be to correct complications, this additional cost could be well worth it for clear vision and healthy eyes. 

4) Their practice location

LASIK prices can vary by state, metro area, and even neighborhood. For example, the average cost of LASIK in California is $4,420, and it costs $4,040 in New York, on average.

You'll pay a premium for an eye surgeon who practices in an area where the cost of living and demand for LASIK is high. A modest practice in a less desirable neighborhood may have more affordable prices.

5) Consultation fees and post-op costs

Before undergoing LASIK surgery, you’ll require at least one consultation. Some providers offer free consultations, while others apply the cost of the consultation to the procedure. 

You'll also need to pay for prescription eye drops and any post-operative eye exams required by your surgeon.

Can you get discounts on the cost of LASIK?

Doctors on RealSelf say to be wary of LASIK that’s offered at under $1,000 per eye. Discount LASIK may come with hidden fees, a less experienced LASIK surgeon (or technician), and aging LASIK technology. 

"Just like with anything, you get what you pay for with LASIK," says Dr. Steven Dell, an Austin, Texas, ophthalmologist. “There is also a tendency for discount LASIK providers to advertise a price that applies only to tiny prescriptions that almost no one qualifies for.”

Not only are hidden fees often associated with bargain LASIK procedures, they often come with a provider who's newer to the treatment. By opting for a doctor with less experience, you run the risk of developing post-treatment side effects, like long-term dry eyes.

Are there LASIK financing plans?

It’s possible to get help covering the price of LASIK surgery even without insurance. Talk to your doctor surgeon about what financing options their practice offers, including payment options that allow smaller payments over time, rather than paying one lump sum. 

Many people also use their flexible spending account (FSA) to pay for LASIK. (An FSA works by allowing you to transfer pre-tax income into an account that can later be used for out-of-pocket medical expenses.)

Discuss financing options with your provider during your initial LASIK consultation.

Is LASIK worth the money?

Out of 228 reviews from RealSelf members, 92% agreed that LASIK was Worth It. While there's no question that it's expensive if you’re paying out-of-pocket, the one-time cost of LASIK eye surgery can actually be less expensive than a lifetime of wearing (and paying for) glasses and contact lenses.

When it’s successful, LASIK can be life-changing. The American Refractive Surgery Council (ARSC) touts a high LASIK success rate, saying that more than 90% of LASIK patients end up with 20/20 vision (normal visual acuity) and 99% come away with better than 20/40 vision.

That said, this vision correction procedure is not always effective. A small percentage of patients (3–5%) need a follow-up surgery called an enhancement. The higher your vision prescription, the less likely it is that you’ll have a fully successful, permanent outcome.

The best way to anticipate whether it'll be worth the money to you is to consult with at least one qualified eye surgeon.

LASIK costs in U.S. states

Browse average LASIK costs and ranges state by state, according to RealSelf member reviews from the past 4 years (as of March 1, 2022).