If you’re considering LASIK eye surgery to improve your vision and reduce your dependence on glasses and contact lenses, you likely have a number of questions about the cost. The good news is that many practices are now offering affordable financing options to help make the procedure more affordable for patients.
The exact cost of lasik cost in raleigh, nc varies by the surgeon you choose, the type of technology used, and your prescription. The surgeon’s experience, skill and track record also play a role in determining the total cost.
Another factor is the amount of correction you require. Typically, the lower your prescription, the lower the overall LASIK costs will be. This is due to the fact that your surgeon may be able to achieve the desired results with a smaller laser treatment, which can be quicker and less invasive.
Many people who are nearsighted (myopia) or farsighted (hyperopia) can achieve good distance and reading vision with LASIK. However, some who develop presbyopia in their 40s and 50s (the ability to see close up objects, such as books) are unable to correct this condition with LASIK or other refractive procedures. This is because the aging eye makes it difficult for light to enter the cornea in the way that it should, thus creating problems with close-up vision.
You should always do your homework before choosing a surgeon and making a final decision about LASIK. This means talking to a surgeon or practice about the procedure, finding out about the doctor’s experience, and researching financing options. Health insurance generally does not cover LASIK, but some plans offer flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts that can be used to pay for the procedure.
Beware of advertisements that claim to offer LASIK for a “low price,” warns Dr. Diaz. These discounts often come with strings attached, and you may find that your prescription is not within the range of what the surgeon will be willing to treat at the advertised price.
A good surgeon will be honest about the cost of LASIK and will give you a detailed breakdown of all the expenses that are associated with the surgery, says Dr. Shamie. The surgeon will also discuss the benefits of LASIK and how it can significantly enhance your quality of life. This includes the intangible benefits such as being able to go SCUBA diving or wear off-the-shelf sunglasses without the need for glasses. In addition, many LASIK patients say that the surgery has made it possible to engage in sports and other activities they couldn’t do before. These intangible benefits can offset the cost of LASIK and make it well worth the investment. Often, you can even finance the surgery with payments that are similar to a regular utility bill. In fact, some LASIK centers have financing partnerships with financial institutions that specialize in elective medical procedures. Many of these companies allow you to spread out your payments over two to five years.