Is LASIK Covered By Insurance?

Understanding LASIK Eye Surgery Pricing

LASIK surgery, renowned for its ability to provide improved vision reducing the need for glasses or contact lenses, has become increasingly popular. However, for individuals contemplating the procedure, the cost—especially without insurance—remains an important factor. Many patients ask about the cost of LASIK and the payment options available to cover laser eye surgery. Here, we provide a comprehensive guide on LASIK costs, potential insurance coverage, and financing options.

Average LASIK Surgery Costs Without Insurance

For those paying out of pocket, the national average cost of LASIK eye surgery typically can range from $1,500 to $4,000 per eye. This broad range reflects a variety of factors, such as:

• Vision Prescription: The severity of the patient’s refractive error can increase the price of the surgery.
• Surgical Technique: Advanced procedures like bladeless or Wavefront-guided LASIK are more expensive than traditional LASIK.
• Geographic Location: LASIK procedures in urban areas generally have higher price tags than those in less populated regions.

At The LASIK Vision Institute, we connect patients with Modern, All-Laser LASIK for an all-inclusive price of $2,495-$2,595 per eye, with most patients paying closer to $1,900 per eye once insurance discounts or promotions are applied to the cost. 

What’s Included in LASIK Costs?

The total price of LASIK surgery generally encompasses several components:

• Preoperative Examination: An in-depth eye exam to determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
• Surgical Fees: The cost of the surgery itself, including surgeon and facility fees.
• Postoperative Care: Follow-up visits are essential for ensuring proper healing and adjusting your vision as needed.
• Prescription Eye Drops: These are often prescribed post-surgery to prevent infection and promote healing.

Does Insurance Cover LASIK?

One of the most common questions patients ask is whether LASIK is covered by insurance. Unfortunately, most insurance providers classify LASIK as an elective or cosmetic procedure, meaning they do not cover the surgery. However, there are exceptions. Some major insurance companies offer courtesy discounts to members for laser eye surgery. These discounts don’t fully cover the procedure but can help lower the overall cost.

It’s essential to check with your insurance provider to determine whether any discounts or special conditions might apply to your LASIK procedure. While rare, some insurance policies may cover LASIK under very specific circumstances.

When Does Insurance Cover Laser Eye Surgery?

While most policies do not include LASIK coverage, certain professions and medical conditions may prompt insurance providers to cover the procedure. For example:

• Military Personnel: Members of the military who meet specific vision requirements may qualify for insurance coverage, particularly if the procedure is performed in a military facility.
• First Responders and Law Enforcement: In some cases, first responders and law enforcement officers may be eligible for LASIK coverage due to the nature of their jobs.
• Actors, Athletes, and Entertainers: For individuals whose careers depend on vision clarity, LASIK might be deemed necessary by insurance providers.
• Medical Conditions: If you suffer from severe dry eye, contact lens intolerance, or other medical conditions that complicate the use of corrective lenses, insurance companies may consider LASIK as a necessary medical treatment rather than a cosmetic procedure.

Financing Options for LASIK Surgery

If your insurance does not cover LASIK, financing options are available to make the procedure more affordable. Many LASIK providers offer payment plans, allowing patients to break down the cost into manageable installments. Additionally, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) offer tax-advantaged ways to pay for LASIK surgery.

Exploring these financing options with your LASIK provider and financial advisor is an important step in making the procedure financially feasible. LASIK centers also often provide free consultations, during which you can discuss both the surgery and available payment plans tailored to your needs.

The Long-Term Value of LASIK

Though the initial cost of LASIK may seem significant, it’s important to consider the long-term savings. Patients who undergo LASIK surgery can potentially save thousands of dollars over the course of their lifetime by eliminating the need for glasses, contact lenses, and lens care products. When combined with the enhanced quality of life and freedom from corrective lenses, LASIK becomes an investment in both vision and lifestyle.

Conclusion: Is LASIK Worth It Without Insurance?

Ultimately, LASIK can be an excellent investment for those who want to enjoy clearer vision without the recurring cost of glasses and contact lenses. Even if insurance doesn’t cover the procedure, financing options and discounts make it more accessible. By thoroughly exploring all available options, patients can make an informed decision about undergoing LASIK surgery and enjoying a lifetime of improved vision.

If you’re considering LASIK and want to know more about the costs and financing options, we recommend scheduling a consultation with your local LASIK provider. A consultation will provide you with personalized details about your LASIK candidacy, pricing, and payment plans to help you make the best decision for your vision.

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References:

Dinga, R. (2025, March 17). How much does LASIK cost in 2025? LASIK.com^TM Official Site. https://www.lasik.com/how-much-does-lasik-cost/

What to Expect From Your Vision Post-Surgery

LASIK eye surgery is renowned for its ability to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. But a common question remains: Will I still need glasses after LASIK? The answer depends on several factors, including your age, vision goals, and eye health over time.

Key Takeaways

• Most LASIK patients don’t need glasses for distance vision.
• Reading glasses may still be necessary after age 40 due to presbyopia.
• Results can last decades, but vision may change naturally with age.

Understanding LASIK: What It Corrects

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors such as:

The procedure is designed to reduce or eliminate the need for corrective lenses — but it doesn’t prevent age-related changes to the eye.

Age Matters: Why You Might Still Need Glasses Later

Presbyopia After 40

Even after a successful LASIK procedure, many patients over the age of 40 eventually require reading glasses. This is due to presbyopia, a natural age-related loss of the eye’s ability to focus on close objects — not a failure of the LASIK procedure (American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2022).

Vision Changes in Your 50s and Beyond

With age, the eye’s lens can become less flexible, leading to:

• Difficulty focusing at different distances
• The need for bifocals or readers, even after LASIK
• Possible cataract development, which LASIK does not prevent

Types of Vision Correction After LASIK

Depending on your personal needs and preferences, several options are available if vision changes occur post-LASIK:

LASIK Expectations by Age Group

Tips for Maximizing Long-Term Vision After LASIK

• Have realistic expectations. LASIK corrects existing vision problems but not future age-related changes.
• Choose the right LASIK option. If you’re 40+, ask your surgeon about monovision LASIK for near and far correction.
• Protect your eyes. UV exposure and eye strain can impact long-term results.
• Attend regular eye exams. Monitor changes and address them early.

Final Word: Will You Need Glasses After LASIK?

For most people, LASIK provides freedom from glasses for distance vision — often lasting years or even decades. However, presbyopia and age-related changes can still require reading glasses or other corrections later in life.

Think of LASIK as a long-term investment in visual freedom — not necessarily a permanent exemption from all eyewear.

Find a LASIK Surgery Location Near You

We’re located nationwide – it’s easy to find a LASIK Vision Center near you.

View All Locations

References

American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2022). LASIK Eye Surgery: What to Expect. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org

Mayo Clinic. (2023). LASIK surgery: What you can expect. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org

National Eye Institute. (2022). Facts About Presbyopia. Retrieved from https://www.nei.nih.gov

Rebenitsch, R. L., & Schallhorn, S. C. (2015). Long-term satisfaction and visual outcomes after LASIK. Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, 41(2), 342–349.

If you’re considering LASIK eye surgery, you likely have one burning question: “Will I see 20/20 after LASIK?” While the short answer is “most people do,” the complete picture is more nuanced. It’s a valid and important question. Let’s look at the realities of LASIK and what you can genuinely expect.

Understanding 20/20 Vision

Before exploring whether laser eye surgery can achieve 20/20 vision, it’s essential to understand what this term means. 20/20 vision refers to the clarity or sharpness of vision, and it’s a measurement used to assess visual acuity. A person with 20/20 vision can see clearly at 20 feet what a person with normal vision should see at that distance. While 20/20 vision is the goal for many patients, it’s important to note that it isn’t always achievable for everyone, and there are various factors that can affect the outcome.

Success Rates and Outcomes

Numerous studies and clinical trials have examined the success rates of laser eye surgery.

• LASIK often delivers 20/20 vision or better, with over 90% of patients achieving this level of vision after the procedure.
• About 9 out of 10 people (90%) who have LASIK end up with vision between 20/20 and 20/40—without glasses or contact lenses.
• More than 90% of people who get LASIK have 20/20 vision or better post-procedure, according to the Refractive Surgery Council, 2017.
• In addition, LASIK has an unprecedented 96 % patient satisfaction rate – the highest of any elective procedure. (Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, Vol. 42, Issue 8, August 2016, Pages 1224-1234).

It’s important to understand that while 20/20 vision is a common result, some patients may achieve vision slightly worse than 20/20 (such as 20/25 or 20/30), which can still be perfectly functional for most daily tasks. The exact outcome can vary based on the aforementioned factors, and patients should have realistic expectations before undergoing surgery.

Factors That Affect the Outcome

Several factors contribute to the success of laser eye surgery and its ability to achieve 20/20 vision:

• Age: Younger patients typically have better outcomes than older patients because their eyes are healthier and more adaptable to the surgical changes.
• Refractive error: Those with mild to moderate myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism tend to have better results than individuals with more severe prescriptions.
• Corneal thickness and shape: Laser eye surgery reshapes the cornea, so having enough corneal thickness is crucial. Thin or irregular corneas may impact the surgery’s success.
• Eye health: People with underlying eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, or dry eye may not be suitable candidates for surgery, or their results could be compromised.
• Healing response: Everyone heals differently, and some people may experience complications or less-than-optimal results due to how their bodies respond to the surgery.

According to Dr. Brewer, “If you are capable of seeing 20/20 with your glasses and contact lenses, then you are capable of seeing 20/20 or better after LASIK…”

Long-Term Vision Stability and Potential Enhancements

While many patients experience stable vision for years following laser eye surgery, some may experience gradual changes in visual acuity over time. Factors such as aging and hormonal fluctuations can influence long-term vision stability. Enhancement procedures may be necessary to address residual refractive errors or changes in vision. We advocate for regular annual check-ups to monitor vision and address any concerns. We provide detailed information regarding the potential need for enhancement procedures and the factors that influence long-term vision stability.

Benefits and Limitations of Laser Eye Surgery

Laser eye surgery offers several benefits, including the potential for clearer vision, freedom from corrective lenses, and a relatively quick recovery period. Some of the specific advantages include:

• Reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses: The primary reason most people seek laser eye surgery is to reduce their reliance on glasses or contact lenses. Many patients achieve functional vision without the need for corrective eyewear.
• Improved quality of life: For many, the ability to see clearly without glasses or contacts enhances daily activities, such as driving, sports, and even traveling.
• Minimal downtime: Compared to traditional eye surgeries, laser eye procedures offer a much faster recovery, with many patients returning to normal activities within a day or two.

However, there are also limitations to consider:

• Not everyone is a candidate: Certain conditions such as dry eyes, severe refractive errors, or other health issues may disqualify a person from undergoing surgery.
• Risks and complications: While laser eye surgery is generally safe, complications can occur, including dry eyes, glare, halos, or infections. In rare cases, the procedure may not result in optimal vision, and additional treatments may be needed.
• Long-term results: While the majority of patients achieve lasting results, some may experience changes in their vision over time due to aging or other factors, such as presbyopia.

LASIK Eye Surgery- An easy 3 step process

What’s Next for Me?

Laser eye surgery offers an effective solution for many individuals seeking to improve their vision. The goal is to reduce the dependence on glasses or contact lenses, and for most patients, the results are highly satisfactory. While achieving 20/20 vision is a common result for many patients, it’s important to understand that each person’s experience may vary. By consulting with a qualified ophthalmologist and setting realistic expectations, you can make an informed decision about whether laser eye surgery is right for you.

Find a LASIK Surgery Location Near You

We’re located nationwide – it’s easy to find a LASIK Vision Center near you.

View All Locations

Sources

American Academy of Ophthalmology.  (Boyd, 2024). LASIK — Laser Eye Surgery. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/treatments/lasik#:~:text=Vision%20after%20LASIK,monovision%20with%20contact%20lenses%20first

American Optometric Association. (n.d.) Visual Acuity: What is 20/20 vision? Retrieved from https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/vision-and-vision-correction/visual-acuity#:~:text=Visual%20Acuity%3A%20What%20is%2020,be%20seen%20at%20that%20distance

Mayo Clinic (2023).LASIK surgery: Is it right for you?Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/in-depth/lasik-surgery/art-20045751#:~:text=In%20general%2C%20most%20people%20who,has%20a%20good%20track%20record.

Refractive Surgery Council. (October, 2017).  What is the success rate of LASIK? Retrieved from https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/laser-eye-surgery-lasik-success-rate/

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical conditions.