Does Insurance Cover LASIK & Your Payment Options

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a surgical procedure that reshapes the cornea to correct common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It aims to improve vision, often reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. Many individuals wonder if insurance covers this procedure, which is often considered elective.

General Insurance Coverage for LASIK

Most health insurance providers classify LASIK as an elective or cosmetic procedure. This means standard health insurance plans generally do not cover the full cost. The rationale is that alternative vision correction methods, such as glasses and contact lenses, are readily available and often covered as medically necessary. Insurers view LASIK as an optional enhancement, commonly limiting or denying coverage for laser vision correction.

Situations for Insurance Coverage

A health insurance plan might cover LASIK in rare circumstances under “medical necessity.” This includes severe anisometropia, a condition with a significant difference in refractive error between the eyes, if traditional correction methods are inadequate.

LASIK may also qualify for coverage to correct vision problems from an injury or complications from other eye surgeries. If medical conditions like severe dry eyes or allergies make wearing contact lenses impossible, LASIK could be considered essential. In these cases, thorough documentation and a demonstrated inability to use conventional corrective methods are required for coverage.

Utilizing Health and Vision Benefits

Even without full insurance coverage, various health benefits and plans can help manage LASIK costs. Vision insurance plans, distinct from standard health insurance, often offer discounts or partial benefits for elective procedures like LASIK. These benefits typically range from 15% to 20% off the procedure cost, with some in-network surgeons offering up to 50%.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) provide a tax-advantaged way to pay for LASIK, as it qualifies as a legitimate medical expense under IRS guidelines. FSA contributions are pre-tax, with 2025 IRS limits at $3,200 or $3,300 annually for individuals. FSA funds must generally be used within the plan year, though some plans offer a grace period or carryover.

For individuals with a high-deductible health plan, an HSA allows pre-tax savings for medical expenses, including LASIK. Funds roll over year to year and can be invested. In 2025, HSA contributions are capped at $4,300 for individuals and $8,550 for families. Utilizing these accounts can lead to substantial savings, potentially 20% to 30% depending on your tax situation, by paying with pre-tax income. To understand specific benefits, contact your insurance provider, review policy documents, or consult your employer’s benefits manager.

Financial Planning for LASIK

LASIK costs range from $1,500 to $5,000 per eye, with a national average around $4,492 for both, making financial planning necessary. Many LASIK providers offer in-house payment plans, allowing patients to spread the cost over months or years. These plans may include options for zero down payment or deferred interest, making the procedure more accessible.

Medical financing options are available through third-party lenders like CareCredit or Alphaeon Credit, which specialize in healthcare loans. These programs often provide promotional financing with deferred interest periods, requiring regular monthly payments. Interest rates on longer-term medical financing can vary, potentially reaching up to 22.99%, depending on creditworthiness.

Clinics may also offer discounts or promotional offers that can reduce the overall cost. Inquiring about these specials during the initial consultation is beneficial. Using personal savings is another straightforward way to cover the expense. LASIK costs may also be tax-deductible as a medical expense if total unreimbursed medical expenses exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income, as per IRS guidelines.