LASIK is an expensive procedure, and since it is generally not covered by insurance, many find themselves in the position of wondering if they can afford to have the procedure. The good news is that LASIK is affordable, if you can follow these few tips on keeping costs down and financing your procedure:
Choose a reputable surgeon: Choosing the right surgeon can save you thousands of dollars and a big headache should things go wrong. Many inexperienced surgeons may have a high complication rate, and may suggest additional “enhancement” surgeries that may or may not be necessary. While “you get what you pay for” isn’t always true, when it comes to the long-term health of your eyes, don’t cut corners. On the other hand, don’t let a surgeon purposely overcharge. Look into several doctors, and don’t “sign” with the first one you talk with.
Avoid discount or package plans: More frequently in larger cities you may see doctors offering huge discounts, or packages that promise 20/20 vision or your money back. LASIK surgeons should not be making guarantees on your eyesight, as there is no way to predict the outcome of your surgery. In addition, surgeons who lure you in with “too good to be true” prices often do so because those who can afford to go elsewhere do, and for good reason.
Consider the tax benefits: The cost of your surgery may be tax deductible. However, other qualifying medical expenses must exceed a certain percentage of your adjusted gross income. If you know you have other qualifying expenses, and have planned to have LASIK, now would be a good time to do it, and save a few hundred dollars in the process.
Long-term cost savings: There may be substantial savings from not having to buy contacts or glasses every year, or pay for expensive yearly exams and fittings. However, it is important to remember that you may still require vision correction after the LASIK procedure, and if not right away, then most certainly as you age.
Pre-tax dollars: Many employers have programs where you can set aside money each month toward future medical bills. The advantages of using these dollars is that they are not taxed before being set aside, so every dollar you use to pay for the LASIK procedure will be tax-free.
Interest-free loans: Recognizing that LASIK is not covered by insurance and is costly to most, many surgeons and groups now offer interest-free loans with flexible monthly payment plans. Review the terms carefully before signing up for any of these programs, because although many of them are legitimate savings options, there are some that may have a catch written into the fine print.
While the cost of LASIK may be prohibitive to some candidates, the above considerations could make the patient feel that the procedure is worthwhile, regardless of its effect on the pocketbook. With high patient satisfaction rates, each year more and more people weigh the benefits of clear vision with glasses and contacts against the costs that go along with it.
Source: http://www.lasiksurgeryarticles.com/Dealing-with-the-Cost-of-LASIK-Eye-Surgery.php