A Financial Case for LASIK
In addition to the many lifestyle reasons why to consider LASIK, there are some very significant financial reasons too. A number of people who crunch the numbers arrive at the conclusion that LASIK eye surgery is actually a pretty good deal and can save you money over time if you have a tendency for purchasing contact lenses or fashion eyewear. SoCal Eye in Long Beach is here to break down some of the costs and present some financial solutions that many do not always consider.
Total Cost of LASIK.
The cost of LASIK surgery can vary depending on promotions that may exist at the time of surgery. Prices range from $2000- $2500 per eye. (Total $4000-$5000). This is a one-time purchase and the benefits can last a lifetime.
The Cost of Not Having LASIK.
If you are nearsighted, you will need to invest in either contact lenses or prescription eye glasses and these costs are ongoing over the course of a lifetime.
Annual Cost of Contact Lenses
The total annual cost of wearing contact lenses depends on a number of factors, including your contact lens prescription, the type of contacts you choose and where you buy them.
Generally speaking, contact lenses will cost between $600 & $1,000 per year including the cost of supplies if they are required. 
Daily disposable contacts. Daily disposable lenses are designed to be discarded after a single use. These lenses typically are sold in boxes of 30 lenses at a retail price of $30 to $40 per box or $720 to $960 per year.
Extended wear (30-day) contacts. Extended wear contacts that are designed for up to 30 days of continuous wear will typically cost $60 to $75 per box of six lenses or $360 to $450 per year. These type lenses will also require solutions and cleaning supplies at an average annual cost of $150 to $200.
Annual Cost of Wearing Glasses
The total annual cost of wearing prescription eyeglasses can vary dramatically depending on the frames and lenses purchased and where they are purchased.
Frames. Eyeglass frames can cost as little as $50 from a large vision center or up to $1000 for designer frames at an optical boutique or optometry office.
Lenses. Single vision lenses are relatively inexpensive at $100 but progressive lenses with specialty anti reflective coatings can cost $1,000 or more.
VSP, the vision insurance company estimates the average price for glasses (frames and progressive lenses) at around $1000 with a pair of glasses lasting about 18-24 months.
Cost Comparison LASIK vs Not Having LASIK
On face value, if a patient is purchasing contact lenses or high end, designer frames with mid-range to high end progressive lenses, the money invested in LASIK will be returned over time.
Year 1 | Year 5 | Year 10 | |
LASIK Surgery | $4000 | $4000 ($3000 HSA/FSA) | $4000 ($3000 HSA/FSA) |
Contact Lenses | $1000 | $5000 | $10000 |
Prescription Glasses | $1000 | $3000 | $6000 |
Maximizing Affordability and Savings for LASIK.
SoCal Eye encourages patients to look at 2 programs to help offset the price of the LASIK Surgery or spread it out over the course of time with affordable monthly payments.
HSA / FSA Dollars.
As a medical procedure, LASIK is eligible for payment using tax free HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Savings Account) dollars. These employer subscribed programs allow funds to be withheld from your paycheck on a pre tax basis and can be used for medical purposes. The average savings of using pre-tax dollars is estimated to be 25% or more. (Please consult your employer for details and how to enroll)
LASIK Surgery Financing – CareCredit
CareCredit is a healthcare credit card designed for your health and wellness needs for you and your entire family. Use it to pay for out-of-pocket expenses not covered by medical insurance, and special financing options are available that you may not be able to get with other cards.
At the time of writing (November 2022) CareCredit was offering 24 months financing with zero interest which means that monthly payments for LASIK surgery were approximately $160/month for 2 years.
Care Credit Payment Calculator Link:
Complete a Care Credit Application online to pre-qualify for your LASIK procedure!
SoCal Eye: LASIK Long Beach
All treatment begins with a Consultation with a SoCal Eye LASIK Specialist or LASIK Surgeon in Long Beach. For LASIK Treatment in Long Beach, Schedule an Appointment today at LAKEWOOD (562) 531-2020 | LOS ALAMITOS (562) 598-7728 or send us an Online Consultation Request
