Laser eye surgery can be highly effective for people who have nearsightedness or farsightedness that is anywhere from mild to severe. It also can be effective for some cases of astigmatism. Here are some other eye conditions that it can effectively treat:
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Retinal vein occlusions
- Ocular histoplasmosis
- Macular degeneration as a result of age
- Central serous retinopathy
- Tumors in the eye
How Effective Is Laser Eye Surgery?
It is common for laser eye surgery to bring one’s vision entirely back to normal. This is measured as 20/20 on an eye test. However, laser eye surgery can correct one’s vision to the point that it is actually better than 20/20.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of laser eye surgeries is variable. Some procedures may cost as much as 4,000 dollars per eye. However, other procedures can be as inexpensive as 300 dollars per eye. There are a variety of factors that affect the price, such as these:
- Where the procedure is performed
- The experience of the surgeon
- The technology that’s used to perform it
- Whether or not insurance covers the eye surgeryLuckily, there are ways that you can reduce the cost of your laser eye surgery. However, it’s important to never skimp on quality. Here are some ways to save money on laser eye surgery:
- Use A Health Savings Account: Lasik procedures are not always covered by insurance. Even if they are, you still will have to pay some money out of pocket. A health savings account can allow you to put money aside without having to pay taxes on it. This can lead to a savings of 25-30%.
- Lasik Special Offers: Sometimes, a facility that performs Lasik will feature deals that can reduce the price of the procedure.
- VSP: VSP offers discounts on Lasik procedures.
- Compare Providers: As a result of the fact that the cost of Lasik varies considerably from one provider to another, it’s a good idea to compare as many prices as possible. However, it’s important to carefully consider each provider of Lasik eye surgery. This is even more true if the provider you’re considering charges a significantly lower rate than some providers of Lasik. You can determine the quality of a surgeon by reading reviews of their business online.
What Is Laser Eye Surgery?
There are several types of laser eye surgery, and they all can significantly improve your vision. These are the main types of laser eye surgery:
Lasik:
Lasik is the most common laser eye surgery. It’s more precise than other laser eye surgeries, and a thin flap is created on the cornea to perform the procedure. Then, a laser beam corrects any defects with your eye.
PRK:
PRK is the next most common type of laser eye surgery. It involves the removal of a small amount of corneal or epithelial tissue. As a result, there’s no need for a corneal flap. The same type of laser that’s used for Lasik procedures is used.
Lasek:
Lasek is very similar to PRK. However, a flap is created. The same type of laser that’s used in Lasik and PRK procedures is used to correct defects with your vision.
RLE:
Refractive lens exchange (RLE) is used to treat cataracts. However, it’s also effective for those who are nearsighted or farsighted.
Epi-LASEK:
This procedure is quite similar to Lasek.
Epi-Lasik:
This procedure is very similar to Lasik.
PRELEX:
PRELEX is used to treat a loss of flexibility in your eye. The lens of your eye is removed during this procedure. Then, the doctor installs a multifocal lens. Lasers can be used to make the incision.
