It’s not unusual to see sales promotions promising LASIK surgery for $499 per eye, which may sound like a tempting bargain to act on. Not so fast. Discount LASIK does exist, and if it sounds too good to be true…believe it!
Low-cost LASIK likely comes with certain considerations including the use of low-grade technology for the procedure. The low cost of LASIK carries hidden ancillary costs and unnecessary concerns. More than likely, discount prices are only for the correction of mild nearsightedness and, if you have farsightedness, astigmatism, or moderate amounts of nearsightedness, the cost of LASIK will often be significantly higher than the “hook” price.
Other fees come into play as well with discount LASIK, including additional charges for pre-op consultation and post-op evaluation, other office visits, upgraded technology and more. Some practitioners will nickel-and-dime you each step of the way.
The same doctors may be performing LASIK with older technology. For instance, for $499, you likely won’t receive custom LASIK. This usually means your surgeon is using the microkeratome blade technique instead of a high-energy femtosecond laser. This custom system is also known as bladeless or all-laser LASIK, which is more precise with less risk for complications.
If you’re considering low-cost offers, which we do not recommend at Mann Eye Institute, make sure you ask for a written quote that itemizes everything in the offer. Ask about all the other potential extra fees before making your decision.
Is LASIK Expensive?
You cannot afford to put a price tag on your eyesight. Seeing the world 20/20 again without the hassles of glasses or contacts is just too important to your overall quality of life. Let’s look at reality. In 2017, the average cost of LASIK surgery performed in the United States was $2,088 per eye, according to a report prepared by a leading vision care industry analytics company. This figure comes from ongoing surveys of American ophthalmologists who routinely perform LASIK and other vision correction procedures.
- LASIK is an investment. The real cost varies based on a number of factors, including:
- Years of surgical experience from a reputable expert
- Technology (what type of lasers are used)
- Your unique prescription and customized procedure
- Insurance benefits (if any) and healthcare or flexible savings plans
- Geography—places with higher costs of living such as Los Angeles or New York naturally charge more for the procedure
Let’s break it down with simple math by reviewing what you’re already spending (per year) on temporary vision fixes:
- Eye exam: $100 – $250
- Contact lens costs: $250 – $750
- Contact lens supplies: $150 – $200
- Glasses with designer frames: $500 – $1,000
- Backup pair of glasses: $100 – $200
- Prescription sunglasses: $500+
- Average estimated total: $1,800+
With this estimated annual expenditure of $1,800, you can expect your surgery to pay for itself in less than four years. Note this list does not include the costs of replacement eyeglasses should you lose or break yours. Nor does it mention the extra medical bills if you develop an infection or injury due to contact lenses.
How Much Does LASIK Cost in Houston and Austin, TX?
Take advantage of the best technology offered today at Mann Eye Institute at our offices in Houston and Austin, Texas. Discover our difference: We promote the exclusive use of WaveLight® technology for customized, all-laser vision correction. The FS200 Femtosecond Laser is the centerpiece of the WaveLight system, used for enhanced speed, accuracy and precision results.
We will help you get LASIK at the best price point, too. We work hard to make it affordable with promotional financing options, flexible spending accounts and payment options, and special savings promotions.
The decision about who to trust with your vision is yours. To see if LASIK is right for you, first consult with a board-certified ophthalmologist/refractive surgeon. Schedule your free consultation with Mann Eye Institute today. Our expert doctors and staff will support you every step of the way in this exciting, life-changing transition to See Life Better. Visit our locations pages for more information on LASIK in Austin and the surrounding areas.