National cost ranges by procedure type, what’s included vs. not, why prices vary, and how to spot red flags when shopping.
Looking for PRK, SMILE, or ICL costs? See our full procedure comparison →
LASIK — National Range
$4,000–$6,000
Both eyes · Bladeless, wavefront-guided
High-cost markets (CA, NY, WA): $4,800–$7,200
Low-cost markets (SE, Midwest): $3,400–$5,200
PRK — National Range
$3,500–$5,500
Both eyes · Surface ablation, no flap
Same regional patterns as LASIK · typically $300–$600 less than LASIK
SMILE — National Range
$4,500–$7,000
Both eyes · Minimally invasive, no flap
Premium due to ZEISS proprietary platform · availability growing but still limited
ICL — National Range
$8,000–$14,000
Both eyes · Implantable lens, reversible
Higher cost reflects surgical complexity and implant cost ($1,000–$2,000/eye wholesale)
What’s included
Prices vary enormously because they include different things. A reputable, all-inclusive quote should cover:
Why prices vary
Older laser systems (some still in service from 2005–2010) cost less to operate and lease, which leads to lower advertised prices. Newer platforms (Zeiss MEL 90, Abbott iDesign) offer better customization but cost more. Ask specifically which laser model and tracking system the practice uses.
A high-volume surgeon with 10,000+ procedures typically charges more than a newer provider. For an elective procedure with low but real risk, surgeon experience is worth paying for. Most complications occur in the first 6 months of a surgeon’s career.
Facility overhead in Manhattan or San Francisco is 2–3x higher than in suburban Oklahoma. This directly affects pricing. A "high" price in a major metro may still reflect the same quality and margin as a "low" price in a smaller market.
A $4,000 all-inclusive quote may be a better deal than a $2,800 quote that adds $1,200 in wavefront mapping and follow-up fees. Always ask for a written itemized quote.
Red flags
$299/eye or $599/eye ads
These prices exist. They apply to: a small subset of patients (very mild prescriptions only), exclude wavefront mapping, exclude follow-up visits beyond 30 days, and often include a hard sell to upgrade at the consultation. The all-in price after "upgrades" at these centers often exceeds premium competitors.
No pricing transparency before consultation
Reputable practices will quote a range and explain what’s included before you drive to an office. If a practice refuses to discuss price ranges until you’re in the chair after a dilation exam, that’s a pressure sales tactic.
Pressure to book same-day
LASIK is an elective procedure. There is no legitimate medical urgency. Any practice that pushes a "today only" discount is using sales tactics that don’t belong in a surgical setting.