How much does laser eye surgery cost?

Know what you’re paying for

For many people, cost is one of the key factors when deciding whether to have laser eye surgery.

The first thing to note is that there isn’t a set cost. In fact, the price of laser eye surgery can vary quite significantly. In Australia, it can range anywhere from $2600 to $3700 per eye.

At face value, this difference in cost may seem extreme. However, keep in mind that there could be some very good reasons why. Below are some things to consider when choosing a provider.

1. The surgery itself

There are three different types of laser eye surgery: LASIK, PRK/ASLA and SMILE^®.

Your ophthalmologist will recommend the laser eye surgery procedure that best suits your situation. This will depend on a number of factors, including your specific refractive error (e.g. short-sightedness, long-sightedness, astigmatism), the shape and health of your cornea, and your lifestyle needs.

Procedures using the latest technology or more than one laser will generally be more expensive due to higher equipment and operating costs.

2. Surgeon experience

How much value do you place on surgical experience?

Experience relates not only to the actual operation and use of highly sophisticated laser technology but also to the ability to recommend the procedure that is likely to achieve the best result for you. For some people, this might even be a recommendation against surgery.

Vision Eye Institute surgeons are highly experienced, and many have introduced new surgical techniques and technologies into Australia. Our network of doctor partners regularly share their knowledge with each other, in order to stay abreast of the latest developments and ensure they are providing best-practice care for patients. They author peer-reviewed publications and are frequently invited to participate in trials and present at major conferences.

Laser eye surgery is offered at our clinics in Melbourne, Chatswood, Brisbane and Townsville.

3. Cost per eye

Clinics generally quote the cost of laser eye surgery per eye so make sure you factor this in when comparing costs.

4. A package deal vs. individual costs

Vision correction, which includes laser eye surgery, is about more than just a surgical procedure. Some clinics will include all of the below costs in one package, while others may charge each separately.

Before the surgery

• During a consultation, comprehensive diagnostic tests are performed to assess the health of your eyes and determine which procedure (if any) is best suited to you.

Read more about preparing for laser eye surgery.

On the day of surgery

• Clinical staff will assess you prior to the surgery.
• You will be offered a mild sedative before your procedure.
• The surgery will take place in the laser suite and you will then be transferred to the recovery area.
• When you are discharged, you will be provided with eye drops and protective goggles.

After the surgery

• A follow-up appointment will be scheduled for later that same day or the following day to check the progress of your eyes.
• Further check-ups will be scheduled in the following months to keep track of your vision.

Enhancement procedure

• Sometimes there may be room to further improve your vision after the initial operation, and a second (enhancement) procedure may be recommended.

How to avoid hidden costs

After an initial assessment at a Vision Eye Institute clinic, we will provide you with a detailed quote for your laser eye surgery procedure. All of our laser eye surgery costs are transparent; our price includes all consultations, surgeon and theatre fees, medications and any recommended enhancements within 2 years from the initial surgery.

Remember there is no obligation to proceed with surgery if you decide it isn’t the right option for you.

Ask about laser eye surgery offers and payment options

Once you have had a comprehensive discussion with your surgeon about the benefits and risks of laser eye surgery and have decided to proceed, you may want to ask about available offers and/or payment options. However, these should NOT influence your decision about whether to proceed with surgery.

BUPA members with Ultimate Health Cover are fully covered for a laser eye surgery procedure at Vision Eye Institute (LASIK, SMILE or PRK).

Once your 3-year waiting period is over, the total cost for your laser eye surgery will be billed directly to BUPA.* To find out if you’re eligible, contact BUPA by calling 134 135 or visiting www.bupa.com.au.

Medibank members can receive a 15% reduction on their surgical fees* if they have a LASIK, PRK/ASLA or SMILE procedure performed at Vision Eye Institute.

This offer is available to members on selected extras and packaged covers. There’s no waiting period so you can upgrade your cover and receive the benefit straight away – contact Medibank on 132 331 to check your cover or learn more here.

Vision Eye Institute works with GEM Visa to offer a payment plan to patients.

Before applying for any form of credit, always read the full terms and conditions. Learn more.

Invest in your eyes

If you’re discouraged by the upfront cost of laser eye surgery, you may be surprised to learn that the procedure can actually save you money in the long run when compared to the ongoing expense of prescription glasses or contact lenses. Learn more.