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LASIK eye surgery is generally considered to be moreexpensive than other more conventional surgicalprocedures. This can in part be attributed to the useof high-tech equipment such as lasers.

Having said that, I think it is worthwhile to mentionthat the cost of LASIK continues to come down. This isin part due to improvements being made to the overallprocess, such as the use of more efficient and cheaperlasers.

According to the FDA the average cost of LASIK eyesurgery was in the region of $1,344 in 2005. This is asignificant reduction from the original numbers listedin 2002 of nearly $1,600.

However, be as it may, when deciding on the type ofLASIK eye surgery or surgeon, price should never bethe overriding factor. Remember you're not buyingshoes you're taking a risk, so why not take the bestcalculated risk by going to someone who has built upa good reputation?

Here are a few things that may help you understandwhy the costs of LASIK laser surgery are high.

' The fee of leasing the building where the surgeryis located

' The leasing or purchase of the laser as well asmaintenance of the blades or lasers can increase LASIKcost. Surgeons may also be upgrading to newer and moreefficient lasers.

' There may be additional, per eye fees to be paid tothe developer or manufacturer of the laser, if themachine is leased.

' You may need special gowns, masks, gloves,medications, or surgical solutions to keep theoperating room sterile and safe.

' There may be Advertising and insurance for theoffice.

When you are considering different LASIK surgeryoptions it may be a good idea to ask your surgeon thefollowing:

' What is and what isn't included in the cost of theLASIK eye surgery?

' What if complications occur or if enhancements areneeded. Will I be charged and if so, how much?

' What about the cost of LASIK medications such asanti-inflammatory or painkillers?

' Will I need temporary contact lenses after LASIK?Are they included in the cost or will they be paid forseparately?

' What about follow-up visits after LASIK? What arethe costs if they are not included in the fee for thesurgery?

Don't forget to contact your insurance company todetermine if they cover the cost of LASIK lasersurgery. Some insurance companies don't cover the costof LASIK because they see it as a cosmetic enhancement.

If financing is not a problem you should stronglyconsider using a LASIK surgeon who best fits yourneeds and addresses your concerns.

For those who already had successful LASIKprocedures, the cost of LASIK laser eye surgery is asmall price to pay compared to the joy offered bytheir newly improved vision.