How Much Does LASIK Eye Surgery Cost?
Last updated: June 28, 2026 by the How Much Does That Cost? editorial team. Estimates are informational - see our methodology.
LASIK eye surgery costs $1,600 to $3,000 per eye, or roughly $3,200 to $6,000 for both eyes — most patients have both eyes done in the same visit, so practices typically quote and budget for the total. The average total for both eyes is around $4,400, with standard technology on the lower end and premium bladeless or custom wavefront-guided LASIK on the higher end.
Price depends heavily on the technology used, your prescription strength, and the practice you choose — heavily discounted "from $999 per eye" ads usually apply only to the mildest, most straightforward prescriptions with older technology. A LASIK consultation and eye exam is required to confirm you're a good candidate and to get an exact quote, since not everyone qualifies for the procedure.
Quick Answer
Typical range: $3,200 – $6,000
Low end
$2,000
High end
$7,000+
Actual pricing varies by location, project size, materials, labor rates, and job complexity. Use the calculator below for an estimate tailored to your project.
LASIK Eye Surgery Cost Calculator
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Estimated Project Cost
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Typical estimate: —
This is an estimate, not a quote. Actual pricing depends on your specific project details and local contractor pricing.
Cost Breakdown
How a typical project budget breaks down by category.
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Surgeon's fee (both eyes) | $2,400 – $4,200 |
| Pre-op consultation & corneal mapping | $150 – $400 |
| Post-op follow-up visits | $100 – $300 |
| Laser/technology fee | $300 – $1,000 |
What Affects the Cost
Technology used
Older blade-based (microkeratome) LASIK is the most affordable option. Custom wavefront-guided treatment maps corrections to your unique eye shape, and all-laser bladeless technology commands the highest prices at most practices.
Prescription strength and astigmatism
Higher amounts of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism can require more advanced technology or additional surgical planning, which raises the price compared to mild, straightforward prescriptions.
Surgeon's experience
Highly experienced surgeons and well-established practices with strong safety track records often charge more than newer practices or high-volume discount chains.
Enhancement/touch-up guarantee
Some practices include a lifetime guarantee covering future touch-up procedures if your vision shifts, while others charge separately if an enhancement is ever needed.
Geographic location
LASIK pricing varies by metro area, with practices in major coastal cities typically charging more than those in smaller markets.
Promotional and discount pricing
Heavily advertised low prices (like "$999 per eye") typically apply only to the mildest prescriptions with the most basic technology — most patients end up paying more once their actual prescription and preferred technology are factored in.
Cost by Number of Eyes
| Number of Eyes | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 eye | $1,600 – $3,000 |
| Both eyes | $3,200 – $6,000 |
Ways to Save
- Use HSA or FSA pretax dollars to pay for LASIK, which can save 20-30% depending on your tax bracket.
- Ask about 0% or low-interest financing plans, which most LASIK practices offer through medical financing companies.
- Get quotes from multiple LASIK centers — pricing and included services (mapping, follow-ups, enhancements) vary widely between practices.
- Having both eyes done in the same visit is standard and typically cheaper than separate procedures.
- Ask whether a lifetime enhancement guarantee is included, since paying for a future touch-up separately can add hundreds of dollars later.
- Check for military, first-responder, or employee discounts, which many LASIK chains offer.
How We Estimated This Cost
We model each calculator from public price ranges, labor data, material pricing, industry surveys, and the regional adjustment method explained in our methodology. Estimates are reviewed for consumer usefulness, then shown as ranges because local quotes, site conditions, materials, and timing can change the final price.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does LASIK cost per eye?
LASIK typically costs $1,600 to $3,000 per eye depending on technology and prescription strength, though most patients budget for both eyes together since they're usually done in the same visit.
How much does LASIK cost for both eyes?
LASIK for both eyes averages around $4,400 total, typically ranging from $3,200 to $6,000 depending on the technology used and your prescription.
Does insurance cover LASIK?
Most health insurance plans consider LASIK elective and don't cover it, though many employers offer vision discount plans, and HSA/FSA funds can be used to pay for it.
Why is some LASIK advertised so much cheaper than other providers?
Heavily discounted advertised prices usually apply only to the mildest prescriptions using older, more basic technology — most patients end up paying more once their actual prescription and preferred technology are included in the quote.
How do I know if I'm a candidate for LASIK and what it will actually cost me?
Only a comprehensive eye exam and consultation with a licensed LASIK surgeon can confirm you're a candidate and provide an exact price based on your prescription, cornea thickness, and chosen technology.