Posted by: Manhattan LASIK Center

LASIK continues to transform the lives of around 700,000 patients every single year. The best-known type of laser vision correction surgery, LASIK, is an extremely popular way of reducing or eliminating reliance on prescription eyewear. The surgery itself works by altering the shape of the cornea using laser technology. This is done using cutting-edge laser technology that performs the changes needed with pinpoint precision and accuracy. This alters the way that light is refracted by the eyes, meaning that the message sent to the brain is interpreted as a clear, detailed image.

LASIK has a very high success rate, with 96-98% of patients* ending up with 20/20 vision. The majority of these patients can function day to day without wearing glasses or contact lenses. If you are considering getting LASIK, you may be a little concerned about the cost of the procedure. There’s no getting around the fact that LASIK does require an investment in your vision. But how does this actually compare to the ongoing cost of contact lenses and glasses? Let’s find out.

How much do glasses cost?

The cost of glasses can vary widely. While some patients may only spend $75 on a pair of glasses, another could spend ten times that. Some of the costs that glasses-wearers incur include:

Their frames. The cost of your frames will depend on whether you choose budget-friendly brands or designer labels. Budget frames can be as little as $10 while a pair of the latest designer specs could set you back upwards of $1000. Many people opt for more than one pair of frames too, such as if they also require prescription sunglasses.

Their lenses. They may all look alike to the untrained eye, but not all glasses frames are created equal. There are different materials, qualities, and styles depending on your individual needs. The newest, specialty glasses lenses which contain the most advanced lens technology can cost hundreds of dollars.

Lens treatments. These are special coatings that are applied to the outer face of your prescription lenses. There are lots of types to choose from, including anti-fogging, scratch resistance, anti-glare, blue light protection, and more.

How much do contact lenses cost?

Again, contact lenses may all look alike when they are out of their boxes, but there are lots of different types and their costs can vary significantly too. Long-wear lenses that you wear all day, take out and clean at night, wear again the next day and repeat tend to be the least expensive. However, you will have to pay out for cleaning solutions which can cost a few hundred dollars each year. You may prefer the convenience of disposable lenses which are thrown away at the end of each day, but these are normally more expensive to purchase. If you require any sort of specialty contact lens (scleral lenses, hybrid lenses) you will probably find they are even more expensive.

How much does LASIK cost?

Every patient is unique and there is no single, set cost for LASIK laser vision correction. You will need to speak to your LASIK surgeon at Manhattan LASIK Center to obtain a precise quote based on your individual needs and the skill and experience of your LASIK surgeon. LASIK isn’t typically covered by insurance, meaning that you will almost certainly need to fund your treatment yourself. Manhattan LASIK Center offers financing options and accepts payment via a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) so it’s worth asking what your options are.

Is LASIK worth it?

Although there is an investment required when choosing LASIK, most patients find that when it is compared to the ongoing costs of glasses or contact lenses in the future, the difference is very small. The convenience of being able to see clearly without prescription lenses is also a huge benefit that can outweigh many of the costs associated with the procedure itself. Find out how much LASIK can save you over time.

If you would like more information about weighing the cost of LASIK against wearing glasses or contact lenses, or to schedule a FREE virtual consultation, please contact the Manhattan LASIK team at (212) 759-9617 today.

*https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/news/20180727/lasik-know-the-rewards-and-the-risk