LASIK Eye Surgery Cost Calculator
Calculate your 2026 LASIK cost based on procedure type, prescription strength, and city. Standard LASIK, custom/wavefront, and LASIK PRK (all-laser) pricing.
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What Affects the Cost?
1. Procedure Type
Standard LASIK (microkeratome blade) costs $1,000–$1,800/eye. Custom/wavefront LASIK runs $1,800–$2,600/eye and produces sharper results for complex prescriptions. All-laser LASIK PRK (bladeless surface ablation, no flap) costs $2,400–$4,000/eye and is best for thin corneas or contact sports. SMILE LASIK costs $2,500–$3,500/eye.
2. Prescription Strength
Mild prescriptions (-1.00 to -3.00 diopters) are easiest to correct and get the lowest prices. Moderate (-3.00 to -6.00) and severe (-6.00+) corrections require more laser time and expertise, adding $200–$600/eye at most centers. High prescriptions also have a slightly higher re-treatment rate.
3. Provider & Market
Chain providers (LensCrafters, LasikPlus) typically charge $1,500–$2,500/eye. Independent ophthalmologists often charge $2,000–$4,000/eye for premium technology. NYC, Los Angeles, and San Francisco practices charge 20–35% above national average. Rural areas are 10–20% below average.
2026 Cost Reference Table
| Type / Option | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Standard LASIK (both eyes) | $2,000 – $3,600 |
| Custom/Wavefront LASIK (both eyes) | $3,600 – $5,200 |
| All-laser LASIK PRK (both eyes) | $4,800 – $8,000 |
| SMILE LASIK (both eyes) | $5,000 – $7,000 |
| PRK (both eyes) | $3,000 – $5,500 |
| LASIK enhancement / touch-up | $500 – $1,500 |
Frequently Asked Questions
The national average LASIK cost is $4,800 for both eyes using custom/wavefront technology, which is now the standard of care. Budget LASIK with basic technology starts at $1,000/eye ($2,000 both). Premium all-laser procedures run $2,400–$4,000/eye.
Standard health insurance does not cover LASIK since it's considered elective. However, HSA and FSA funds can be used for LASIK. Some vision plans offer a discount (typically $200–$500). Military TRICARE covers LASIK for active duty service members.
At $4,800 total, LASIK pays for itself in 3–7 years vs. ongoing contact lens costs ($600–$1,200/year). 96% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better. Satisfaction rates are consistently 95%+. The main risks are halos/glare at night (affects ~3% permanently).
Find LASIK Surgeons & Compare Pricing
LASIK pricing varies 30–50% between providers. Always get consultations at multiple centers.
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Cost Breakdown
Cost Itemization
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Tips Before You Start
- ✓ Only 85% of adults are good LASIK candidates — get a free screening first
- ✓ Beware of $299/eye ads — those are starting prices for mild prescriptions only
- ✓ Custom/wavefront LASIK has better outcomes for complex prescriptions
- ✓ Many centers offer 0% financing for 24 months
- ✓ Lifetime enhancement policies are worth it if included — get them in writing
Cost by State — 2026
Based on national average pricing adjusted for local labor and material costs.
Alabama
$3,168 – $5,491
$4,224
Alaska
$5,220 – $9,048
$6,960
Arizona
$3,492 – $6,053
$4,656
Arkansas
$2,988 – $5,179
$3,984
California
$5,328 – $9,235
$7,104
Colorado
$4,032 – $6,989
$5,376
Connecticut
$4,608 – $7,987
$6,144
Delaware
$3,888 – $6,739
$5,184
Florida
$6,660 – $11,544
$8,880
Georgia
$3,420 – $5,928
$4,560