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Lasik eye surgery has become the preferred method of treatment for the correction of vision problems like near- and far-sightedness and astigmatism, which affects billions of people around the world on a daily basis, especially when they reach their 40s. However, there are also some things to consider before opting for this kind of non-cutting eye surgery, because it is extremely expensive.

To understand the cost of Lasik eye surgery, one needs to know a little about the procedure, because it's the technology that you're paying for, not the time it takes to perform the operation. Lasik surgery is performed with a laser light beam, not traditional surgical tools and settings like scalpels and operating rooms with full staff and general anesthesia. Lasik qualified ophthalmologists can perform in a doctor's office, or eye correction facility on an outpatient basis, no overnight hospital stays necessary.

Lasik surgery typically costs $1500 to $2500 per eye. Yes, you read that right. You might see deals advertised for Lasik surgical procedures that cost $500 per eye, but keep in mind two things: first, that's just the basic cost of the surgery and does not include the use of additional equipment and supplies, nor the fees that will be added for the operating suite, the equipment used to perform the procedure, or the fees of the physician. Always ask before you sign what the final costs, per eye, are going to be. Second, that cost is determined by the severity of your eye trouble. The $500 listed may be for a very minimal eye vision correction, and is not to be taken as a baseline for what your procedure may entail, depending on your own vision diagnosis.

Also keep in mind that while Lasik eye correction surgery is accepted by many insurance companies around the world, the United States is lagging behind in that department, as many companies in America still consider Lasik to be a completely cosmetic surgery that is not vital to eye correction. They continue to hold to the belief that eyeglasses and contacts are perfectly acceptable and are unwilling, in most cases, to foot the bill for the cost of Lasik eye surgery. Hopefully, that attitude will change in the very near future, for Lasik offers less complications, less chance of damaging the eye during surgery, and fewer medical costs because of its outpatient procedure opportunities.

Though the basic cost of Lasik eye surgery is roughly $2,000 an eye, that may increase or decrease by a small amount depending on where you live. Lasik eye surgery can be completed in about 10-15 minutes in most cases, per eye. When thought of that way, the cost may seem astronomical, but considering the options, it's actually a pretty good deal. No more glasses, contacts, or supplies and repairs. Instant eye correction, and the decreased risk of complications or damage to your most vital sense. When considering the high cost of Lasik eye surgery, try to remember that you are paying for a non-invasive method to correct your eyesight, and the cost won't seem so prohibitive after all.