LASIK Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of LASIK or PRK eye surgery based on technology, prescription strength, and number of eyes treated.
Many providers offer financing plans, and prices can vary significantly by region and surgeon experience.
How much does LASIK cost?
LASIK pricing is typically quoted per eye and varies based on the technology used. Standard LASIK, the most basic and widely available option, averages around $1,200 per eye. Custom wavefront LASIK, which maps the unique imperfections of your eye for a more personalized correction, typically costs more, averaging around $1,800 per eye. PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) is an alternative laser vision correction procedure — sometimes recommended for patients who aren't ideal LASIK candidates due to thinner corneas — and averages around $1,300 per eye. Since most patients have both eyes treated in the same session, total cost is usually roughly double the per-eye price. These are illustrative national averages; actual pricing depends heavily on your provider, geographic location, and surgeon's experience.
Why does prescription strength affect the price?
Higher, more severe prescriptions sometimes require more corneal tissue removal or additional pre-surgical testing and planning, which can increase the complexity and cost of the procedure compared to mild or moderate prescriptions. This calculator applies a simple multiplier to reflect that relationship, but only an in-person evaluation with a licensed ophthalmologist can determine whether you're a good candidate for LASIK or PRK and what your case will actually cost.
Is LASIK usually covered by insurance?
LASIK and PRK are generally considered elective, vision-correction procedures and are typically not covered by standard health insurance, though some vision insurance plans or employer benefits offer a discount rather than full coverage. Many LASIK providers offer financing plans or accept Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds, which can make the upfront cost more manageable. This tool is for general budgeting purposes only and is not medical advice — a comprehensive eye exam and consultation with a licensed eye surgeon is necessary to determine your candidacy, expected outcome, and an accurate price quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does LASIK cost per eye?
Standard LASIK averages around $1,200 per eye, custom wavefront LASIK around $1,800 per eye, and PRK around $1,300 per eye. Most patients have both eyes treated, roughly doubling the total cost.
Is LASIK covered by health insurance?
LASIK is generally considered an elective procedure and is typically not covered by standard health insurance, though some vision plans or employers offer discounts. HSA and FSA funds can often be used to help cover the cost.
What's the difference between LASIK and PRK?
Both are laser vision correction procedures with similar outcomes, but PRK doesn't create a corneal flap like LASIK does, which can make it a better option for patients with thinner corneas, though recovery time is often slightly longer.
Why is custom wavefront LASIK more expensive?
Wavefront technology maps the unique imperfections of your eye in greater detail, allowing for a more personalized correction, which typically comes at a higher price than standard LASIK due to the additional technology and precision involved.
Does a higher prescription cost more to correct?
Some providers charge more for higher, more severe prescriptions since they may require more tissue removal or additional pre-surgical planning, though pricing structures vary by provider — some charge a flat rate regardless of prescription strength.
Are there financing options for LASIK?
Many LASIK providers offer monthly financing plans, and patients can also use HSA or FSA funds to cover the cost with pre-tax dollars, which can make the upfront expense more manageable.
Is everyone a good candidate for LASIK?
No. Factors like corneal thickness, prescription stability, certain eye conditions, and overall eye health determine candidacy. Only a licensed ophthalmologist can determine whether LASIK, PRK, or another procedure is right for you after a comprehensive eye exam.
Is this calculator a substitute for a consultation with an eye surgeon?
No. This tool provides a general cost estimate for planning purposes only and is not medical advice. A comprehensive eye exam and consultation with a licensed eye surgeon is required to confirm candidacy and receive an accurate price quote.