How Much Does LASIK Cost? Everything You Need to Know

LASIK has become one of the most common elective surgeries in America, with over 700,000 procedures per year. In 2025, expect to pay $2,000-$4,000 per eye, with the national average around $2,500 per eye.

The technology used significantly affects price. Standard LASIK (microkeratome blade) costs $1,500-$2,500 per eye. All-laser (bladeless) LASIK runs $2,000-$3,500 per eye. Custom wavefront-guided LASIK is $2,500-$4,000+ per eye.

Surgeon experience and location drive prices. Major metro areas cost 15-30% more than suburban or rural practices. Surgeons who have performed 50,000+ procedures may charge a premium, but experience matters for outcomes.

Be cautious of advertised prices below $1,000 per eye. These typically cover only basic LASIK for mild prescriptions and exclude the pre-op exam, enhancements, and post-op care. The real cost after add-ons is usually $2,000+.

A good LASIK quote should include: pre-operative exam and testing, the procedure itself, all post-operative visits for at least one year, and any enhancement procedures needed within the first year or two.

LASIK is rarely covered by insurance since it's considered elective. However, some plans offer discounts through preferred LASIK providers. FSA and HSA funds can be used to pay for LASIK, saving you 20-35% through tax advantages.

Most LASIK centers offer financing through CareCredit or in-house plans. 0% interest promotions for 12-24 months are common. At $4,000 total (both eyes), that's about $167-$333/month interest-free.

The financial payoff is real. If you spend $300/year on contacts and solutions plus $200 on glasses every two years, LASIK pays for itself in 8-10 years. For younger patients, the lifetime savings can exceed $20,000.

Not everyone is a candidate. You need a stable prescription for at least 1-2 years, adequate corneal thickness, no autoimmune conditions, and generally need to be 21+. About 15-20% of consultation patients are not ideal candidates.

Success rates are excellent: 96% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better. Complications are rare (less than 1%) and usually temporary. Dry eyes are the most common side effect, typically resolving within 3-6 months.