Laser Eye Surgery and Astigmatism: Costs 2024Did you know that a degree of astigmatism is present in more than 90% of the global population?1 Lee BS, Lindstrom RL, Reeves SW, Hardten DR. Modern management of astigmatism. Int Ophthalmol Clin. 2013;53(1):65-78 cited by https://crstodayeurope.com/articles/2017-oct/what-is-astigmatism-anyway/ If you’re one of them, you may have thought about getting laser eye surgery to improve your vision. Naturally, there are many questions to consider, such as what to expect from the surgery, how conditions like astigmatism may (or may not) affect the treatment, and of course, the cost.We understand that financing laser eye surgery can be a concern. At IVISION LASER, we offer transparent pricing and work with you to find the best payment options. In the past, we’ve covered other burning questions like “Which lens is used to correct presbyopia?” and “Which health funds cover laser eye surgery?” Today, we’ll explore the financial side of things further, detailing factors that influence the cost of laser eye surgery, breaking down the overall price tag and estimating out-of-pocket expenses to help you find the right solution for your vision needs.At IVISION LASER, we provide a comprehensive consultation process, personalised treatment plans, and dedicated post-operative care to ensure you feel informed and supported throughout your laser eye surgery journey.If you’re considering LASIK the best place to start is to check out our free online suitability test.How Does Laser Eye Surgery Correct Astigmatism?Laser eye surgery can correct astigmatism2 Michigan Medicine (LASIK surgery uses a laser to reshape your cornea — the clear, round dome at the front of your eye — to improve the way your eye focuses light rays onto your retina at the back of your eye.) https://www.michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/pros-and-cons-lasik-are-risks-worth-cost by reshaping the cornea, the clear front part of your eye, to allow light to focus more precisely on the retina. This correction improves vision and can significantly reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.3https://ranzco.edu/home/patients/laser-eye-surgery/%E2%80%8BThe most common types of laser eye surgery that address astigmatism include LASIK, PRK, and SMILE® Pro.It’s important to note that while many patients experience significant improvements in vision, results can vary based on individual factors such as the severity of astigmatism, overall eye health, and age. Be sure to have a thorough discussion with a qualified surgeon to understand the potential risks, benefits, and realistic outcomes of the procedure.Costs of Laser Eye Surgery for Astigmatism in Australia (2024)In 2024, the cost of laser eye surgery in Australia typically ranges from $2,500 AUD to $6,000AUD per eye.4 The Australian Society of Ophthalmologists https://www.asoeye.org/patients/laser-eye-surgery/ This range can vary depending on several factors, including the type of procedure you choose and the clinic’s location. For example, surgeries in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne may charge more than in smaller towns due to higher operating expenses. Additionally, more experienced surgeons can have higher fees, reflecting their expertise and the demand for their services.Note that while these costs provide a general idea, the final amount you pay could vary quite a lot. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to consult directly with clinics and obtain detailed quotes tailored to your situation.Factors That Influence CostSeveral factors can influence the cost of laser eye surgery:Clinic Location – As mentioned previously, clinics in larger cities often have higher costs due to rent, salaries, and other overhead expenses. If you’re willing to travel, you may be able to shop around; however, this comes with its own costs, such as arranging transportation to and from the clinic.Surgeon Experience – More experienced and reputable surgeons may choose to charge higher fees, citing a history of positive outcomes and their reputation for patient care.Technology Used – Advanced technologies like SMILE® Pro or femtosecond lasers may increase the cost but can offer additional benefits, such as quicker recovery times, which are worth considering.5 Tandfonline: Journal of Refractive Surgery https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/08820538.2020.1807028Type of Surgery: LASIK, PRK, and SMILE® Pro vary in cost. SMILE® Pro, for instance, is often more expensive. (You can find a side-by-side comparison of these options below.)We understand that different patients have different needs and budgets. During your consultation, we will thoroughly assess your individual situation and recommend the best treatment option, including the most suitable technology, for your specific needs.ProcedureLASIKPRKSMILE® ProExpected Cost per Eye (AUD)$3,000 – $4,500$2,500 – $4,000$4,500 – $6,000OverviewLASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) involves creating a flap in the cornea and reshaping the underlying tissue.PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is a surface ablation procedure where the cornea’s outer layer is removed before reshaping.SMILE® Pro (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive procedure where a small incision is made to remove a lens-shaped piece of tissue.ProsQuicker recovery timeLess discomfort post-surgeryHigh success rateSuitable for patients with thin corneasNo risk of flap complicationsLower risk of dry eyes Minimally invasiveFaster recovery than PRKLess risk of dry eyesConsNot suitable for thin corneasRisk of flap complicationsDry eyes post-surgeryLonger recovery timeMore discomfort during recoveryVision recovery can take several weeksHigher costLimited availability compared to LASIK and PRKNot suitable for all types of refractive errorsDoes Medicare Cover Laser Eye Surgery for Astigmatism?Medicare, Australia’s public health insurance system, generally does not cover elective laser eye surgery, including procedures for correcting astigmatism. Laser eye surgery is often considered a non-essential, elective procedure rather than a medically necessary treatment. As a result, patients typically need to cover the entire cost out of pocket.However, there are some exceptions. If your astigmatism is severe and laser eye surgery is deemed medically necessary—for instance, if it’s affecting your ability to perform essential daily tasks—there might be partial coverage under specific circumstances. It’s important to check directly with Medicare and your healthcare provider to determine if you qualify for any coverage.In most cases, though, patients should plan to pay for laser eye surgery themselves, either through savings, financing options, or private health insurance.Will Private Health Insurance Cover Laser Eye Surgery for Astigmatism?Private health insurance can play a role in reducing the cost of laser eye surgery, though coverage varies significantly between providers and plans.6Australian Government’s PrivateHealth.gov.au website https://www.privatehealth.gov.au/health_insurance/what_is_covered/eye_surgery.htm Australian Government’s Department of Health (The level of cover you can get for services relating to your eyes and vision depends on your private health insurance policy. Different policies cover different things, and some policies don’t cover eye health at all…) https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/private-health-insurance/what-private-health-insurance-covers/vision-and-eye-health Some higher-tier insurance plans may cover part of the cost, particularly for medically necessary procedures. However, it’s rare for insurance to cover the entire cost, especially for elective surgeries like LASIK or SMILE® Pro.Here are some key points to consider when looking into how much your laser eye surgery will cost you.1. Check Your PolicyContact your insurance provider to confirm what your plan covers. Some policies might offer rebates or partial coverage for the surgery, while others may not cover it at all. You may also have a waiting period before you can take advantage of your plan, which is often over a year.2. Prepare for Out-of-Pocket CostsEven with insurance, you’ll likely have some out-of-pocket costs. Ensure you understand these costs before proceeding with surgery so that you can account for them when planning ahead.What additional costs are there?Beyond the surgery itself, there are several additional costs you should be aware of:Consultation Fees – Initial consultations, where your eyes are assessed and suitability for surgery is determined, typically range from AUD 150 to AUD 300.7 The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital https://www.eyeandear.org.au/page/Patients/Patient_information/Eye_Surgery/ Some clinics might offer these consultations for free if you proceed with the surgery.Post-Surgery Care and Medication – After your surgery, you’ll need follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure the procedure was successful. These follow-ups, along with any necessary medications (like antibiotics or anti-inflammatory eye drops), can add to the overall cost. Post-surgery care typically ranges from AUD 200 to AUD 500.If paying for the surgery upfront is a challenge, many clinics offer financing options. These might include payment plans that allow you to spread the cost over several months or years. Interest rates, terms, and conditions can vary, so it’s important to fully understand the financial implications before committing.3. Eligibility RequirementsSome insurance plans have specific eligibility requirements for coverage, such as a minimum prescription level. Always consult your insurance provider to get accurate and up-to-date information regarding your specific policy, as they will be able to provide you with guidance relevant to your situation.Is Laser Eye Surgery for Astigmatism Worth the Cost?Laser eye surgery can be a valuable investment for people with astigmatism, offering many potential benefits – especially for those looking to better their vision. Many patients experience a significant improvement in their vision after the procedure, which can reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that outcomes can vary, and even in successful treatments, some individuals may still require corrective lenses for specific activities.8Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/publications-and-resources/resource-library/consumer-fact-sheet-laser-eye-surgeryIn terms of cost-effectiveness, the initial expense of laser eye surgery might seem high, but over time, it can lead to substantial savings. Patients who no longer need to purchase glasses, contact lenses, or associated cleaning solutions may find that the surgery pays for itself in the long run. This is especially true for those with severe astigmatism, who typically rely on costly custom lenses.The procedure can also enhance one’s quality of life. For many people, the freedom of seeing clearly without the hassle of managing glasses or contacts is a significant improvement. However, it is important to approach the surgery with realistic expectations, as not everyone will achieve perfect vision.Before making a decision, discuss the potential benefits and risks with your surgeon. This conversation will help you gain a clear understanding of what you can realistically expect from the procedure, ensuring that your decision is well-informed.Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Eye Surgery and Astigmatism1. Is laser eye surgery more expensive if I have astigmatism?The cost of laser eye surgery for astigmatism is generally comparable to surgery for other refractive errors like myopia or hyperopia. However, the complexity of your astigmatism might influence the final cost, especially if it results in choosing a more expensive option, like SMILE® Pro. Always consult with your surgeon to get an accurate estimate.2. Are there financing options available for laser eye surgery?Yes, many clinics offer financing options that allow you to pay for the surgery over time. These might include interest-free payment plans or loans with varying interest rates. It’s important to fully understand the terms and conditions of any financing option before committing.3. Does private insurance cover laser eye surgery costs?Coverage varies by provider and plan. Some higher-tier plans may cover part of the cost, especially if the surgery is deemed medically necessary. However, it’s rare for insurance to cover the entire cost of elective procedures. Again, always check with your insurance provider to understand what your policy includes.4. What happens if I need additional treatments after surgery?If you need additional treatments, such as an enhancement procedure, there may be additional costs involved. Some clinics offer a guarantee that covers these additional procedures within a certain timeframe, but it’s important to confirm this with your surgeon beforehand.Laser eye surgery is a big step towards clear vision, and it has the potential to vastly improve one’s quality of life, especially for those with astigmatism. We hope that this guide helps you navigate the costs and prepare financially for an investment in your future eyesight.If you are interested in learning more about laser eye surgery, we invite you to take our free online suitability test or schedule a consultation to discuss your individual needs and explore your options. Here at IVISION LASER, we’re here to support you in making an informed decision.This information is provided as a general guide and should not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified eye surgeon to discuss your individual needs.