by The reality is that the price of LASIK can vary between $220 to $4,000 or more for just one eye. Why is there such a huge price range, and what dictates the price you’ll be faced with? Could it be dependent on where you’re located, the amount of experience your surgeon has, your healthcare savings, your level of eye prescription, the type of technology, the location you’ve been contemplating using, or your insurance benefits? In a simple sense, yes. All of these factors heavily impact the cost of LASIK in Los Angeles.
Let’s Dive Into That a Little Deeper
First and foremost, the prescription level of your eyes is and will always be one of the most crucial aspects that base the cost of your eye procedure. At your LASIK consultation, you can discuss this in more depth.
LASIK surgeons who have been practicing for a longer timeframe bring the benefit of more expertise and experience to your laser eye surgery, but surgeons in this category usually tend to be on the pricier side. Don’t be afraid if you decide to go this route; many people feel more at ease at the hands of an experienced LASIK professional anyways.
The technology used during the procedure will also impact your LASIK eye surgery cost. One of the main variances is if you decide to undergo a blade or bladeless procedure. This scenario causes the price increase because a bladeless LASIK eye procedure uses a second laser instead of a blade. A bladeless procedure connotes a quicker recovery time and a more pleasant healing process. Custom LASIK, or the usage of Wavefront technology, will also increase your price tag. At your consultation, speak with your surgeon about the benefits of the blade, bladeless, and Wavefront technology as they pertain to your pair of eyes.
Depending on where you are planning on getting your laser eye surgery done also affects LASIK eye surgery cost. Locations such as New York, Boston, and Los Angeles may mirror higher procedure costs as they are cities with higher costs of living.
Be sure that when you are deliberating where you’re going to get your procedure done, you understand what each quote given entails. While one surgeon may give you the price of the surgery alone, another surgeon may give you the price of a bladeless surgery with a year’s worth of checkups. Don’t just look at whatever is more affordable; factor in what each quote includes and see what benefits you the most.
Is LASIK Covered by Insurance Providers?
The answer, plain and simple, is no. Insurance usually does not cover laser eye surgery unless your specific profession deems perfect eyesight a requirement. Combat fighters and professional athletes are prime examples of those who are eligible for full coverage.
Don’t fret so easily, though! Insurance providers try to work out reduced rates for insurance holders. Check to see if the surgeon also honors military or AAA holders for a discount.
What About Your Health Spending Accounts?
Since FSA, HRA, and HRA are all used to cover health expenses, all three of these accounts are eligible to cover the cost of a LASIK procedure if you have them. Some individuals even deduct major medical expenses, so check with your tax preparer to see if you qualify.
Other Routes You Can Go to Afford LASIK Eye Surgery
Financing laser eye surgeries are a pretty common activity. Paying off the procedure every month at a price similar to a utility bill is a lot more attractive than paying in full. Some people even put the cost on credit cards that come with reward benefits such as points and miles.
The Value of Laser Eye Surgery
LASIK eye surgery has been called “life-changing” time and time again. Many individuals who have undergone laser eye surgery were able to engage in things they weren’t able to before, such as recreational activities like snorkeling, wearing sunglasses, and traveling without difficulty. LASIK diminishes your need for glasses or contacts for years, and either of these could very well be a contributing factor to something that holds you back from enjoying life. While it’s crucial to understand the procedure and the price of LASIK in Los Angeles, it’s also important to figure out if it will increase your quality of life too.
