Eye Surgery

Even though Lasik eye surgery is quite a simple and fast procedure, it can be quite expensive. The first step to consider is finding out the average cost of the procedure and then deciding to go to an eye center or a doctor that fits your budget. However, always keep in mind that cheap surgeries may carry lots of dangers.

First of all, you should know that there are two types of Lasik surgery: custom Lasik and traditional Lasik. Custom Lasik is more expensive than traditional Lasik. Also, there are new technologies that may increase the price such as intralaser technology.

Statistically speaking, the cost of a lasik eye surgery procedure has been increasing. In 2002 the average cost of lasik eye surgery was between $1,550 and $1,600, but by October 2003 the average had risen to $1,710. At the end of 2004 the average cost of lasik eye surgery was a little over $1,800, and in 2005 it was $1,965. Remember these are average prices.

Regarding price variation, remember that different providers perform different levels of preoperative testing, and you need to find out if this testing is included in the price. The equipment used for the procedure is another aspect that may change the price. Technologies for tear film analysis, eye tracking, and measurements of corneal thickness, the laser and corneal topography and pupil size, are available at various prices.

Although LASIK is not a cosmetic surgery, it is considered an elective procedure. Such surgeries are covered in many African, Latin American, European and Asian countries. However, most insurance companies in the United States and Canada will not cover the cost, nor will Medicare usually cover it. It would be excellent if you check with your insurance company to see if they have partial or full coverage for this procedure.

Refractive surgery fees should cover a variety of costs such as lease or purchase and maintenance of the laser, corneal ring segments, microkeratome and/or other devices used. The excimer laser manufacturer receives a royalty fee of $100 to $150 per eye to develop the machine. If it’s a custom procedure the royalty fee per eye is between $145 and $250, depending on the laser manufacturer. In the cost of lasik surgery are also included masks, gloves, gowns and other items to make sure the operation is kept sterile.

To sum up, there are lots of factors to have in consideration regarding the cost of a lasik eye surgery, so your duty should be to identify which factors are important and which are not, so you can adjust your budget. However, remember that your decision should not rely simply on cost, a good surgeon is important too!

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