Key Takeaways
In general, LASIK, PRK, and other refractive surgical procedures correcting myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism are seen as elective procedures and are typically not covered by medical insurance companies.
However, some vision insurance plans do incentivize their clients with discount savings to promote LASIK or PRK laser surgery as they see the long-term benefits or savings to the patient when factoring in the cost of glass frames, or contact lens material over time.
Cost of LASIK vs Glasses & Contact Lenses
While there is a larger upfront cost for LASIK or PRK, it is more affordable than you think when you tally up the cost of average prescription glass frames and even prescription sunglass frames. Also factor in the cost to repair or replace damaged frames or lost frames. These expenditures quickly add up and a patient soon realizes they have paid for LASIK many times over. Contact lenses vary in price depending on the brand and material of lenses. In general, there are 3 categories of contact lenses: soft, daily disposable or extended disposable lenses, rigid gas permeable lenses, or hybrid lenses. New contact lens users must factor in the cost of lens kits, contact lens solutions, and follow-up appointments to ensure proper care and usage of lenses. Again, depending on the purchase frequency of contact lens supplies and lens solution as well as the duration in years of contact lens wear, it soon becomes apparent that the cost of LASIK or PRK laser surgery has been paid many times over. The other concern with contact lenses is the abuse or overuse of the lenses which can lead to a myriad of problems that result in costly visits to eye specialists and medications.
LASIK is a life-changing experience that allows patients to enjoy their daily activities with ease, and spontaneity not worrying about glasses and contacts. The FDA-approved age for LASIK is 18 years of age with a stable eye prescription. The younger the patient has LASIK, the more years the patient benefits until they hit their 40's at which time patients enter the age of presbyopia which is simply the natural aging of the eye and struggling to read up close. So let's do the math, from age 18 to 45, patients can enjoy 27 years or more of clear, hassle-free vision. If the average cost of LASIK is $4400 over 27 years, that equates to $0.45 per day. That's cheaper than a cup of coffee or donut. Is our precious eyesight and ease of daily living not worth $0.45 per day? Presbyopia varies in age for all of us. Some experience it in the early '40s, some mid to later 40's. Age 45 is the mid-range for presbyopia. After age 45, other options for refractive procedures exist such as monovision or blended vision or multifocal intraocular lenses.
Choose San Antonio Eye Specialists For LASIK in San Antonio
If you are tired of living your life dependent on glasses and contact lenses and want a more meaningful investment of your money spent on vision, perhaps LASIK or PRK laser vision correction is at the forefront. Contact San Antonio Eye Specialists and come consult with Dr. Iskander, our fellowship-trained refractive surgeon with more than 20 years of vision correction experience and more than 25 years as a Board Certified ophthalmologist. For your eyes...Don't Compromise! Visit mySAeyes.com or call (210) 822-9800 to schedule a complimentary LASIK appointment.
