How Much Does LASIK Cost in San Diego, California?
The average cost of LASIK eye surgery in San Diego, California is $2,400 per eye, with most patients paying between $1,500 and $2,995. Monthly payments typically start around $200 with financing.
LASIK Cost Calculator
Sample LASIK Centers in San Diego
Here are some examples of LASIK providers in San Diego with their approximate pricing. Visit our San Diego LASIK centers page for a complete list of providers.
San Diego LASIK Institute
New Freedom Eye Center / Richard Burns, M.D.
Sharp Rees-Stealy Surgical Eye Consultants
San Diego Eye & Laser Center, an NVISION Eye Center
Factors That Affect LASIK Costs in San Diego
Technology Used
Advanced technologies like Wavefront-guided or bladeless LASIK typically cost $200-500 more per eye than standard procedures. Centers in San Diego offer various technology options:
- Standard LASIK: $1,920-$2,400
- Custom Wavefront LASIK: $2,400-$2,880
- SMILE Laser Vision Correction: $2,640-$3,120
- PRK (alternative to LASIK): $2,160-$2,400
Surgeon Experience & Reputation
More experienced surgeons typically charge higher fees. Top surgeons in San Diego with excellent reputations and reviews may charge 10-30% above the average rate.
- New surgeons: Often charge less to build their practice
- Experienced surgeons (5-10 years): Around market average
- Elite surgeons (10+ years, high volume): Premium pricing
What's Included in the Price
LASIK pricing packages in San Diego vary widely based on what's included. Comprehensive packages typically include:
- Pre-operative consultations and testing
- The LASIK procedure itself
- Post-operative care and follow-up visits (typically 1 year)
- Enhancement procedures if needed (limited time frame)
- Medicated eye drops and supplies
Watch out for "starting at" prices
Some centers advertise low starting prices (like $799 per eye) that typically don't include pre/post-operative care or use older technology. These often end up costing much more with necessary add-ons.
Facility & Location
LASIK centers in San Diego's premium neighborhoods or those with state-of-the-art facilities may charge more than those in suburban areas. Urban centers typically have higher overhead costs that are reflected in pricing.
LASIK Financing Options in San Diego
LASIK is typically considered an elective procedure not covered by insurance. However, 88% of LASIK centers in San Diego offer financing options to make the procedure more affordable.
Common Financing Options
- CareCredit: Healthcare credit card offering 0% interest for 6-12 months on qualifying purchases. Most San Diego centers accept CareCredit.
- Monthly Payment Plans: Many centers partner with third-party financing companies to offer 12-60 month payment plans.
- FSA/HSA Accounts: You can use tax-advantaged Flexible Spending Accounts or Health Savings Accounts to pay for LASIK, potentially saving 20-30% based on your tax bracket.
- In-House Financing: Some centers offer their own payment plans with low or no interest for qualified patients.
Potential Monthly Cost
With financing, the average LASIK procedure in San Diego (at $2,400 per eye) would cost approximately:
- 12 months: $400/month
- 24 months: $200/month
- 36 months: $133/month
Frequently Asked Questions About LASIK Costs in San Diego
Is LASIK worth the cost?
LASIK can be cost-effective over time when compared to the ongoing expense of glasses and contacts. The average person spends $500-800 annually on vision correction. At San Diego's average LASIK price of $4,800 for both eyes, the procedure could pay for itself in 5-8 years, while providing the convenience of improved vision without corrective eyewear.
Does insurance cover LASIK in San Diego?
Most insurance plans consider LASIK elective and don't provide coverage. However, some plans offer LASIK discounts through vision networks. Certain employers in San Diego also provide LASIK benefits through vision plans. Additionally, you may be able to use pre-tax dollars from FSA or HSA accounts to pay for the procedure.
Why do LASIK prices vary so much between providers?
Price differences typically reflect variations in technology, surgeon experience, facility quality, and what's included in the package. Some San Diego providers offer basic procedures with older technology at lower prices, while others include the latest technology, comprehensive exams, and lifetime enhancements in their higher pricing. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of what's included.
Are there additional costs after the procedure?
Some providers charge separately for post-operative visits or enhancement procedures. Others include these in their package price. You may need to purchase eye drops after surgery, which can cost $30-100 depending on whether prescription or over-the-counter options are recommended. Ask about all potential additional costs during your consultation.
What happens if I need enhancements or touch-ups later?
Approximately 5-15% of LASIK patients may need an enhancement procedure within the first few years. Many San Diego providers include enhancements in their pricing packages for 1-2 years after the initial procedure. After that period, enhancement costs typically range from $500-1,500 per eye depending on the provider and your specific needs.
Factors That Affect LASIK Cost in San Diego
Technology Used
The technology used during your LASIK procedure significantly impacts the price. Advanced technologies typically cost more but may provide better outcomes for certain patients.
Standard LASIK
Uses a microkeratome blade to create the corneal flap
Bladeless/All-Laser LASIK
Uses a femtosecond laser to create the flap
Custom Wavefront-Guided LASIK
Uses 3D mapping for more precise correction
SMILE Procedure
Minimally invasive alternative to LASIK
Geographic Location
LASIK costs vary significantly by location due to differences in cost of living, competition, and overhead expenses.
LASIK Financing in San Diego
Payment Options in San Diego
LASIK is typically considered an elective procedure not covered by insurance. However, 88% of LASIK centers in San Diego offer financing options to make the procedure more affordable.
Healthcare Credit Cards
CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit offer special healthcare financing with promotional 0% interest periods for qualifying patients.
Accepted at most LASIK centers Monthly Payment Plans
Many San Diego providers partner with third-party financing companies to offer 12-60 month payment plans.
FSA/HSA Accounts
Tax-advantaged Flexible Spending Accounts or Health Savings Accounts can be used to pay for LASIK in San Diego, potentially saving 20-30% based on your tax bracket.
Provider Discounts
Some San Diego LASIK centers offer special promotions, military/first responder discounts, or seasonal pricing.
Sample Monthly Payment Estimates
With financing, the average LASIK procedure in San Diego (at $2,400 per eye) would cost approximately: