How much does LASIK cost?

LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a one-time refractive surgery, and clinics usually quote a price per eye. The Refractive Surgery Council reports a national average of about $2,250 per eye and $4,492 for both eyes, and AllAboutVision cites a comparable average of about $2,246 per eye. Actual quotes vary widely with the laser platform, your prescription, the surgeon, and your region.

LASIK cost by procedure type

CareCredit’s cost guide breaks LASIK pricing down by the technology used. Newer, all-laser and custom platforms cost more than conventional blade-based LASIK:

Across sources, that puts most single-eye pricing between about $1,230 and $3,737, with a national average near $2,250. Because you almost always treat both eyes, plan for roughly double the per-eye figure. The gap between the low and high ends is mostly about technology: a straightforward standard procedure sits near the bottom, while custom wavefront mapping and all-laser (bladeless) flap creation push toward the top.

Regional price differences

Where you have surgery matters. CareCredit’s state-by-state averages range from about $1,318 in Mississippi to about $2,198 in Hawaii for a single eye, a swing of well over $800. Big metro areas and higher-cost-of-living states tend toward the upper end, while smaller markets often quote less for the same technology. If you live in an expensive area, it can be worth gathering two or three itemized quotes before booking.

What moves the price

• Technology used: Conventional LASIK is the least expensive; wavefront-guided (custom) and all-laser/bladeless platforms cost more (Refractive Surgery Council; CareCredit).
• Your prescription: A small share of surgeons price by the strength or complexity of your correction (AllAboutVision).
• Surgeon experience and reputation: More established surgeons often charge more (AllAboutVision).
• Geographic location: CareCredit’s state averages range from about $1,318 (Mississippi) to $2,198 (Hawaii).
• What’s bundled: Very low advertised prices ($99–$299 per eye) typically exclude consultations, pre- and post-op visits, and advanced technology (Refractive Surgery Council).

Both eyes, financing, and insurance

Since LASIK is considered elective and cosmetic-adjacent, most vision and health insurance plans do not cover it. Many practices bundle both eyes plus follow-up care into a single quote and offer financing; the Refractive Surgery Council recommends getting a written, itemized estimate that spells out the procedure, technology, and included visits before you commit. When comparing quotes, confirm whether the price is per eye or for both, and whether enhancements (touch-ups) are included.

Even though insurance rarely pays, there are common ways to offset the cost. Many people use tax-advantaged flexible spending (FSA) or health savings (HSA) accounts, and practices frequently offer in-house or third-party financing to spread payments over time. Some employers or vision plans also negotiate discounts with specific surgery centers. None of these change the sticker price, but they can make the roughly $4,492 both-eyes national average easier to budget for.

Is a cheaper quote a red flag?

Not necessarily, but a price far below the roughly $1,230-per-eye floor for standard LASIK often means older technology, a less experienced surgeon, or fees that appear later. Comparing the total out-the-door cost for both eyes, including all visits, is the most reliable way to judge value.

This is general cost information, not medical advice — consult a licensed provider. Prices are ranges that vary by clinic, technology, and region, and are current as of the verified date; get a personalized quote before making decisions.