In the case of LASIK, frugality is quite literally in the eye of the beholder. At first glance, choosing LASIK vision correction may seem like an extravagance. Rich celebrities and stars always seem to be the ones raving about LASIK. You may think: Isn’t it more sensible to pay a few hundred dollars for yearly frames or make a down payment on a bottle of contact lens solution?
Below, the experienced vision care professionals at Clarity Eye Group do the math, weighing the costs and benefits of LASIK vs. a lifetime of lenses.
Clear Perspectives
It’s a tug-of-war between two classic budgeting perspectives: penny-wise and pound-foolish. On one side are the costs of inconvenience, limited freedom and recurring purchases of prescription lenses, frames, contacts and disinfecting equipment. On the other side is a proven, safe and quick once-and-done procedure — a half hour in the office and 40 seconds of a cool, ultra-precise laser reshaping the cornea to focus sharp, high-definition light on the retina.
There’s another twist to the choice: LASIK is not only a wise financial decision for the long-term, but often in the short-term as well. As laser technology continues to advance, prices have stabilized or even declined. And while medical insurance won’t typically cover the cost of LASIK, many financing options exist, some vision plans offer discounts, and the expense is tax-deductible.
The cost of a LASIK procedure is highly dependent on the magnitude of vision correction needed, the technology used, and of course the experience and reputation of your surgeon. Prices can range from $1,500 to $4,000 per eye, with an average cost of just above $2,000 for each. At the high end will be the wavefront LASIK technique that uses computer eye mapping to guide the advanced excimer and femtosecond lasers used by your surgeon.
Focus on Savings
If you wear glasses or contacts, you are well aware of the prices for the regular purchases you make. Unless you are happy with the bargain Harry Potter frames you can find at the local big-box store, you will likely pay hundreds of dollars for your next pair of prescription glasses. Costs for contact lenses add up quickly, too. Depending on the recommended frequency of disposal, you may pay up to several hundred dollars each year for fresh lenses. Contacts that correct for astigmatism will be more expensive. During your regular eye exam, you will also pay extra for an additional contact lens fitting.
To learn more about the benefits of LASIK vision correction, schedule your appointment at our Huntington Beach office with Clarity Eye Group today.
LASIK Cost vs. Lifetime Cost of Prescription Eyewear
