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January 30, 2022
There are several laser refractive surgery variations, and LASIK is the most popular and most commonly performed procedure of them all. LASIK stands for laser-assisted in-situ-keratomileusis and is a type of laser eye surgery performed to improve vision. This procedure helps correct farsightedness, near-sightedness, and astigmatism. According to The Vision Council, over 195 million people in the United States have undergone some form of vision correction, and approximately 700,000 people annually have LASIK done. Laser eye surgery involves permanently reshaping a patient’s corneas. While it is considered a minimally invasive procedure, there are some potential risks involved. However, the benefits of this procedure often outweigh the possible risks.
LASIK procedures correct imperfections, or refractive errors, in the eyes’ ability to focus by using a laser to reshape the cornea. This procedure changes how the eye focuses, thereby improving vision without the need for corrective eyewear such as glasses or contact lenses. Before the procedure begins, your eye surgeon will assess detailed measurements of your eye. After which, your surgeon will utilize a special type of laser to precisely alter the corneas’ curvature. With each pulse of the laser, a tiny amount of corneal tissue is removed, allowing your eye surgeon to flatten the curve of your cornea or make it steeper. Although the duration of the procedure may vary from one patient to another, it generally takes around 10-20 minutes to perform LASIK on one eye.
While LASIK may not be a viable option for certain patients, it is advisable to consult your optometrist to find out if you’re a candidate for this procedure. However, as a result of remarkable and continuous innovation in treatment methods and technology, more and more people are now eligible for laser eye surgery.
Candidates for the LASIK include:
Most people who undergo LASIK achieve great vision. While this is generally good enough for most day-to-day activities, some people may still require the use of glasses even after the procedure, to drive at night or read a book as they get older.
LASIK holds a good track record as complications and drawbacks are generally rare. While certain side effects such as dry eyes and temporary visual disturbance are fairly common, they usually tend to clear up after a few weeks or months.
However, the success of LASIK all depends on your refractive error and other factors. People with mild near-sightedness tend to have the most success with LASIK. While people with a high degree of near-sightedness or farsightedness along with astigmatism have less predictable results. It is best to consult your optometrist to help you decide if LASIK is right for you.
The average cost of LASIK is usually between $2,000 to $3,000 per eye. Surgery tends to cost more when you choose a highly experienced surgeon or live in a large city with a higher cost of living.
LASIK cost often includes:
While there are LASIK procedures advertised at low costs of $250 per eye, they often come as a bait and switch. As tempting as it may be to look for the lowest price tag for LASIK, approach with caution. The promise of low-cost LASIK may come with additional fees, a less experienced surgeon, or an undesired LASIK technology that may cause harm. If the price for LASIK seems too good to be true, it probably is. It is important to be diligent with your research and see what works best for you.
Reputable doctors generally offer you a financial breakdown of your LASIK procedure, so you will understand just how much it will cost and what is included in the cost. Having a cost breakdown can be helpful when comparing the prices of other clinics, so don’t be afraid to ask.
If you do choose to visit multiple doctors in several clinics to compare the costs and services provided, you may begin to see a variation in prices. While a cheaper price tag may not necessarily signify a difference in surgery quality, it is worth spending time to research the clinics you are considering to ensure you are getting the highest level of care possible.
LASIK eye surgery cost varies from provider to provider depending on several factors. The most common factors are the level of vision correction required, the technology that will be used, and the surgeon’s experience.
If you’re shopping for LASIK surgeons, looking in different cities or even different states could help you spot locations that offer good price breaks. However, take your travel cost and time into consideration when comparing the cost of each clinic.
While insurance plans may not cover the cost of LASIK, some plans may offer you a discount if you choose to have it done with a specific provider. Although you are still responsible for making the payment, the cost may be significantly lower due to the negotiations done by your insurance company.
Some clinics also offer discounts based on the time of year or the type of procedure required. These offers can also help you save money. With LASIK costing a few thousand dollars out of pocket, certain clinics also provide financing and payment options to help you manage this expense. It doesn’t hurt to look around for better deals and options while also keeping in mind to be cautious.
While the idea of having perfect vision and never having to wear contacts or glasses ever again sounds tempting, the thought of having vision correction surgeries and being awake through it is quite daunting. So considering the procedure, the effectiveness, and the cost of LASIK, we are now left with the question, “Is it worth it?”
Since LASIK is considered an elective procedure, it will not be covered by most insurance companies. Although the cost may seem steep, it is worth taking into consideration that it is a one-time expense in comparison to the lifelong costs of prescription glasses and contact lenses should you not have the procedure. While the surgery itself may seem daunting, it is a simple process that only requires a few minutes of your time, and the laser is designed to switch off instantly if the patient is to make any sudden movement making the overall process quite safe.
Here at OOMC, our patient’s well-being is our priority. Our dedicated team of surgeons and staff always makes an effort to create a safe and secure environment where you can easily access care comfortably and confidently.
Contact one of our centers nearest to you for further information.
Corneal Associates of New Jersey
Kremer Eye Center
Ludwick Eye Center
Eye Care Northwest
