Correcting your vision with LASIK can be life-changing. After LASIK, most patients can enjoy less dependence on visual aids, with improved visual acuity.
For decades, LASIK has been the leading choice for permanent vision correction. It is a quick procedure with short recovery times and long-lasting results.
If you live in Austin and are considering correcting your vision with LASIK, you probably have some questions about the costs involved with the procedure. Keep reading to learn the answers to some of the most frequent questions patients ask about the cost of LASIK in Austin!
How Much Does LASIK Cost in Austin?
The cost of LASIK in Austin ranges depending a variety of factors. The cost for LASIK is calculated per eye because the procedure can differ for each eye and, in some cases, may only be required for one eye.
Pre- and post-procedure care, including eye exams and follow-up appointments, are typically included in that cost.
What Factors Influence LASIK Pricing in Austin?
The actual cost per eye depends on factors including the type of laser procedure performed and case complexity. Of these factors, the type of laser procedure often has the most significant impact on the actual cost per eye.
The three most commonly performed LASIK procedures are conventional LASIK, all-laser, bladeless LASIK, and Custom Wavefront Guided LASIK. The least costly of these procedures is conventional LASIK, which uses a metal blade to create the corneal flap. Bladeless and Custom Wavefront Guided LASIK can be pricier, but use advanced laser and mapping technology to deliver highly personalized results.
The complexity of a patient’s case can also influence the cost of LASIK. Higher eye prescriptions often require more advanced technologies, like Custom Wavefront Guided LASIK, to achieve the patient’s desired results.
How Does the Cost of LASIK in Austin Compare to National Averages?
Nation-wide, the actual cost of LASIK can be affected by region, technology, surgical expertise, and provider reputation. Unsurprisingly, LASIK often costs more in urban areas, where providers may have newer technologies and higher overhead costs. These providers may also be able to charge more based on demand and name recognition.
Does Insurance Ever Cover LASIK in Austin?
LASIK is not usually covered by insurance because it is considered an elective procedure. Insurance companies do not consider LASIK medically necessary because other, less expensive treatments for refractive errors, like glasses and contacts lenses, are readily available.
Some health and vision insurance companies offer price breaks when the procedure is performed by a participating eye care provider. If you are considering LASIK and its costs, it may be worth calling your insurer to see what discounts or benefits might be available.
Can I Use my HSA or FSA for LASIK Costs in Austin?
LASIK is a qualified medical expense for both health savings accounts (HSA) and flexible spending account (FSA) funds. You can use these pre-tax dollars to pay for some, or all, of the procedure.
LASIK is a particularly good use of FSA funds. Because FSA dollars are “use-it-or-lose-it,” putting them towards LASIK ensures that you get the most out of your annual health investment.
Is LASIK in Austin Tax-Deductible?
It is a little-known fact that LASIK is tax-deductible. The IRS considers eye surgeries that correct defective vision, including LASIK, a medical expense that can be deducted from itemized tax returns.
Are There Financing Options for LASIK in Austin?
The cost of LASIK can seem daunting, but with financing options, it can be accessible for most people. Many people are eligible for CareCredit, the nation’s leading patient payment program.
After qualifying with CareCredit, you can have your procedure now and then pay for it over time, with low monthly payments that fit into your monthly budget. CareCredit allows you to set repayment terms and the amount of monthly payments.
CareCredit offers two payment plans: no-interest and extended. With a no-interest plan, you pay no interest as long as your balance is paid off within a certain period; with an extended plan, you can borrow more at a low interest rate over a longer borrowing period.
How Does the Cost of LASIK in Austin Compare to The Costs of Glasses or Contacts?
For most people, the one-time cost of LASIK is usually much less than the annual cost of prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. In a hypothetical comparison of eye care costs, data showed that correcting vision with LASIK saved glasses wearers more than $8,000 and contact lens users over $15,000 in a 30-year period.
The cost of LASIK in Austin is a one-time expense that ultimately is an investment in a lifetime of clear vision. With multiple payment options and manageable financing plans, you can achieve your vision goals with LASIK in Austin as soon as you are ready!
Do you want to learn more about the cost of LASIK or determine your financing options? Schedule a LASIK consultation at Dell Laser Consultants in Austin, TX, today!
