Laser Eye Surgery is one of the most popular and safe medical procedures in the UK, with more than 100,000 people each year electing to undergo surgery.

We now have decades of data that provides proof of safety, and the success rate is very high; 99% of patients achieve 20/20 vision and 90% achieve better than 20/20 eyesight!

However, there can be a huge difference in the costs that clinics charge, and it is important to realise what you actually receive for the price you pay.

In this article, we take a look at the typical costs of laser eye surgery, and delve a little deeper into the standard of care provided.

The Average Costs Of Laser Eye Surgery

Figures posted on the internet can vary wildly, with some clinics claiming the procedure can be performed for just a few hundred pounds. You may also find reference to laser eye surgery costing over £4000 per eye!

Here are the typical figures we found for each eye treated:

LASIK – From £1,100 to £2,800

LASIK Wavefront – From £1,600 to £3,300

LASEK – From £1,100 to £1,900

LASEK Wavefront – From £1,400 to £2,600

Generally, the prices of surgery are an indication of the technology involved. Clinics that provide wavefront LASIK/LASEK charge more as they are using the latest technology that provides the very best results. Without pure wave front treatment, there are increased risks of night vision problems, and patients with larger pupils can not be treated at all.

There are also a number of other factors that play a part in the price you are offered:

• Clinic Location – many of the UK’s leading laser eye surgeons operate in London. Due to their expertise and the costs of living in London, prices may be higher. However, if the costs are exorbitant, then patients should ask why the fees are so high – don’t just believe the marketing hype!
• Aftercare – some laser eye surgery providers charge separately for aftercare, so the price advertised is simply for the operation itself. A separate charge will be levied for any aftercare and ‘fine tuning’ appointments. Also, beware of clinics that have all of the aftercare performed by optometrists and not by the surgeon. You should seek clinics which offer aftercare for 12 months, not 3-6 months.
• Special Offers – unscrupulous clinics sometimes advertise ‘special offer’ deals that are only available to patients with low prescriptions. Those people who have higher prescriptions tend to find they have to pay more once they enquire.

Will The Cheapest Option Be Good Enough?

By rushing and choosing the cheapest clinic, you are potentially exposing yourself to a sub-standard level of treatment. While it is possible that the laser eye surgery may end up being adequate, there tends to be a reason that some surgeons are much less expensive than others.

Always select an experienced surgeon with a good amount of reviews that date back over years, not months. Online testimonials can be easily faked!

Check that the surgeon is registered with the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, and research their qualifications. You only have one pair of eyes – don’t risk your sight to save money!

Are There Any Hidden Costs?

A low advertised price is often used to lure customers into making an enquiry. However, be sure to check out if it is the total cost that you will pay. Sometimes the initial consultation and aftercare appointments may not be included in the price.

Read the terms and conditions to see exactly what you are getting for the price you are paying – it may end up costing you more than other clinics with all the add-on charges.

Why Do Some Surgeons Charge A Flat Fee?

In the interests of transparency and reassurance, some clinics charge patients a one-off flat fee that includes everything they need for a successful laser eye operation:

A flat fee payment will usually include:

• Eye examinations
• Consultations
• Surgery
• Aftercare
• Medication

Do The NHS Provide Free Laser Eye Surgery?

The NHS only provides laser eye surgery for eye conditions that may lead to a loss of vision unless they are treated. For short-sightedness, long-sightedness, or astigmatism it will not be provided.

You may qualify for free laser eye surgery on the NHS if you suffer from:

• Diabetic retinopathy
• Some types of wet macular degeneration
• Diseases of the cornea
• Thickening of the lens capsule after cataract surgery

The Best Choice

As can be seen, there is a lot to think about when it comes to selecting a good laser eye clinic! Unfortunately, there is no shortcut to doing extensive research that will help you to make your choice.

For matters of health, we always advise choosing experience, qualifications, and clinic reputation over costs. Although cut-price deals may be tempting, they often do not lead to a great result.

Advanced Vision Care are the UK’s leading laser eye clinic, with world-class surgeons. We use the latest technology to deliver outstanding results for our patients. Call 02079357497 today to speak to an advisor and find out about our transparent pricing and our range of financing options. Also, be sure to check what our patients say about us!

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