The Cost of Laser Surgery
What might initially appear as a reasonably priced procedure might be quite expensive after the added costs. As with any important purchase cost is a major deciding factor. Before comparing final prices offered by different laser surgery centres it is important to understand what contributes to these costs and which services are or are not included in the quoted price.
Some prices include pre-operative consultations to determine if you are a candidate for laser surgery; others include comprehensive eye examinations post-operative care follow-up office visits and standard medications. Some might even offer free 'touch-up' surgery if required. Be sure to verify what is included in the final price because what might initially appear as a reasonably priced procedure might be quite expensive after the added costs.
What Contributes to the Cost?
Refractive surgery fees cover a variety of costs including:
- The purchase or lease price of the laser
- Maintenance of the laser
- A royalty fee to the laser manufacturer who uses the fee to recoup equipment research and development costs
- Sterile gowns, masks, gloves required by the surgeon
- Clinic operating expenses such as rent,office supplies, employee salaries and advertising
- The surgeon's fee
Common Methods of Payment
Some insurance plans do not cover refractive surgery as they consider it a cosmetic procedure. Others however contribute a specified sum of money towards the procedure. Furthermore the surgery may make you eligible for a medical tax deduction. You should discuss this possibility with an accountant or tax advisor.
Most laser surgery centres and private medical practices work with financial providers to offer their patients various financing packages. These can include deferred monthly payments a line of credit or fixed interest rates. You should discuss these financing options with a member of the surgery centre before you commit to the procedure.