The cost of LASIK surgery is usually high due to the use of lasers and other highly technical equipment. However, the cost of LASIK has decreased over the years as improvements have been made to procedure overall.

When selecting a surgeon, avoid going for the lowest price as there are other factors that may end up increasing the overall cost.

Consider the following in your assessment:

The cost of LASIK can be increased by the purchase or lease of the laser used in the procedure as well as the upkeep of the blades or lasers.

There’s often a fee per eye that is paid to the manufacturer or developer of the machine in order to cover the cost of the laser.

Gloves, gowns, medications, masks, and surgical solutions used to maintain the safety and sterility of the operating room may be included in the cost.

Insurance and advertising expenses for the doctor’s office.

The cost of LASIK can be diminished if your surgeon is a member of the staff. In most cases this will eliminate his fee.

When contemplating the various LASIK surgery options available to you, don’t be afraid to ask your surgeon about what exactly is included in the cost of LASIK surgery under his care.

Here are some specific question you should ask:

What is and isn’t factored into the overall LASIK cost?

What will I have to pay for if enhancements are needed or complications arise?

How much should I expect to pay for temporary contact lenses if I need them after LASIK?

What’s the cost for LASIK medications such as painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicines?

How much are the post-operative visits related to LASIK?

Lastly, you should contact your health insurance provider to determine if they will cover the cost of your LASIK surgery. Because they consider the procedure to be cosmetic in nature, some health care companies won’t cover your LASIK cost. If financing is no issue with you, then we strongly suggest you go with the LASIK surgeon who best fits your needs and addresses your concerns.

According to the FDA, the average cost of LASIK surgery was about $1,344 in 2005. This is a considerable decline from the initial figure of $1,600 that was listed in 2002. However, in 2006 this number rose sharply to $1,950 and even higher to $2,099 in 2007. In spite of these figures, several patients find this LASIK cost to be nominal in comparison to the comfort of improved vision.