The Cost of Contacts vs LASIK

When it comes to LASIK surgery, cost is often a major concern. However, recent statistics from the American Academy of Ophthalmology reveal that Americans spend a staggering $15 billion per year on eye wear. Whether you have insurance or not, there will still be out-of-pocket expenses for your eye care. If you're contemplating between LASIK and contact lenses, the question naturally arises: "What is the price difference?"

For individuals whose vision has been affected by refractive errors like myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, clear vision comes with a price tag. Whether you opt for LASIK surgery to permanently correct your vision or choose contact lenses for a temporary solution to achieve 20/20 eyesight, you are investing in your ability to see. The decision ultimately boils down to weighing the long-term benefits against the short-term costs. While LASIK may initially seem expensive, with costs ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 per eye, the expenses for contact lens replacements add up quickly, averaging between $200 and $1,000 per year.

Typically, most people spend around $250 annually on contact lenses. However, when considering the lifespan of wearing contact lenses and any changes in prescription, LASIK emerges as the more affordable choice. LASIK is likely to pay for itself sooner than contact lenses, offering the added advantage of not having to worry about daily maintenance and care. If you wear contacts for over 30 years, you could end up paying upwards of $30,000 or more, especially if you also require prescription glasses. On the other hand, LASIK is highly cost-effective in the long run, with total costs usually ranging from $4,000 to $6,000.

Health savings plan accounts (HSA) can potentially save you up to 30% on the overall LASIK procedure. Some employers even offer contribution matches to help offset the costs associated with the surgery. Furthermore, many eye centers provide vision plan discounts for laser vision and offer 0% financing for correction surgery, which ultimately costs a fraction of what you would spend on contact lenses and prescription glasses.

To discover more about the affordable ways in which the Rochester Eye and Laser Center can assist you with your LASIK procedure, visit our website. To schedule a comprehensive eye exam to determine if LASIK is the right choice for you, you can book an appointment online or call 585-546-7611 and speak with Kristen, our registered LASIK nurse.