LASIK vs Glasses Long-Term Cost Calculator
Compare the lifetime cost of LASIK eye surgery against years of buying glasses and contact lenses.
Find your break-even point.
LASIK Break-Even Year
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a refractive eye surgery that permanently reshapes the cornea to correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The upfront cost is significant, but it eliminates decades of ongoing vision correction expenses.
Average LASIK costs (United States, 2024):
| Procedure | Average Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard LASIK | $2,000–$3,000 per eye | Both eyes typically $4,000–$5,000 total |
| Custom / Wavefront LASIK | $3,000–$4,000 per eye | More precise, higher success rate |
| PRK (alternative to LASIK) | $2,500–$3,500 per eye | Better for thin corneas |
| LASIK with lifetime guarantee | Add $500–$1,000 | Covers enhancements if vision changes |
What affects LASIK candidacy:
- Age: typically 18+ (prescription must be stable for 1–2 years)
- Minimum corneal thickness (screening required)
- No significant dry eye disease
- Prescription within treatable range (typically -12D to +6D)
- Not pregnant or nursing
Annual glasses/contacts cost (typical ranges):
| Vision Correction Method | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Glasses only (replaced every 2–3 years) | $100–$300/year |
| Contact lenses (daily disposable) | $400–$800/year |
| Contact lenses + backup glasses | $600–$1,100/year |
| Premium lenses with coatings | $200–$500/year |
The break-even calculation:
Break-Even Years = LASIK Total Cost ÷ Annual Vision Correction Savings
Example:
- LASIK: $4,500 total
- Current annual cost: $600 (contacts + glasses)
- Break-even: 4,500 ÷ 600 = 7.5 years
After 7.5 years, every year is savings. Over 30 years of clear vision: saves $13,500.
LASIK success rates:
- 96% of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better
- 99%+ achieve 20/40 or better (legal driving standard in most US states)
- Enhancement procedures may be needed for ~5–10% of patients
Risks and side effects:
- Temporary dry eyes (1–3 months)
- Night glare or halos (usually fades within 3–6 months)
- Under/over correction (usually correctable with enhancement)
- Very rare: permanent vision problems (<1%)