Tired of glasses and contact lenses but worried about refractive surgery cost? You’re not alone.
Many people dream of clear vision but hesitate due to the uncertainty of pricing and whether the procedure is worth the investment.
The cost of refractive surgery varies widely—from ₹25,000 to ₹1,50,000 per eye, depending on the type of procedure (LASIK, PRK, SMILE, ICL), technology used, and the clinic’s reputation.
With over 1 million vision correction procedures performed worldwide every year, refractive surgery is becoming increasingly popular, yet many struggle to find transparent pricing details.
I remember when I first considered LASIK—the conflicting information on pricing and hidden costs left me more confused than ever.
But after thorough research and consultations, I found that understanding cost factors, comparing clinics, and exploring financing options made the decision much easier.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about refractive surgery cost, including a price comparison, influencing factors, and ways to make it more affordable. Let’s get started! 🚀
What is Refractive Surgery?
If you’ve ever wished you could wake up and see clearly without reaching for your glasses or popping in contact lenses, refractive surgery might be the solution you’ve been looking for.
These procedures help correct vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, giving you clear vision without dependence on corrective eyewear.
But what exactly is refractive surgery, and how does it work? Let’s break it down.
Types of Refractive Surgery
There isn’t just one way to correct vision—there are several options, each with its own benefits.
Here are the most common types of refractive eye surgeries:
✅ LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) – The most well-known and widely performed procedure. A laser is used to reshape the cornea, improving how light is focused onto the retina. Quick recovery, minimal discomfort.
✅ PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) – Similar to LASIK but without creating a corneal flap. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea is removed and grows back naturally. Ideal for people with thin corneas but has a slightly longer recovery.
✅ SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) – A newer, minimally invasive laser procedure where a small disc (lenticule) is removed from the cornea through a tiny incision. Less dry eye risk, quicker healing than PRK.
✅ ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) – Unlike LASIK or PRK, ICL doesn’t reshape the cornea. Instead, a biocompatible lens is implanted inside the eye, working like a permanent contact lens. Great for people with very high prescriptions or thin corneas.
How Does Refractive Surgery Work?
Regardless of the method, the goal of refractive surgery is the same—to correct how light enters your eye so that it focuses properly on the retina, resulting in clear vision.
Depending on the procedure, this is done by reshaping the cornea with a laser or implanting a special lens inside the eye.
Who Can Benefit from Refractive Surgery?
Refractive surgery is a life-changing option for many, but it’s not for everyone. You’re likely a good candidate if you:
✔ Have a stable prescription for at least a year
✔ Have healthy eyes with no severe conditions like glaucoma or keratoconus
✔ Are 18 years or older (some procedures require you to be 21+)
✔ Want freedom from glasses or contact lenses
However, if you have very thin corneas, unstable vision, or certain eye diseases, you may need to explore alternative options or consult a specialist for guidance.
Refractive surgery has helped millions of people worldwide achieve clear, natural vision without relying on corrective eyewear.
But choosing the right procedure depends on your prescription, eye health, and lifestyle.
In the next section, we’ll dive into the cost of refractive surgery and what factors influence pricing. Stay tuned! 🚀
Refractive Surgery Cost: A Detailed Breakdown
If you’re considering refractive surgery, one of the biggest questions on your mind is likely, “How much will it cost?”
The truth is, prices vary significantly based on factors like surgery type, technology, surgeon experience, and location.
Let’s break down the cost of refractive surgery, both in India and globally, and explore the key factors that influence pricing.
Average Cost of Refractive Surgery (Global & India-Specific)
The cost of refractive surgery varies depending on the country, hospital, and technology used.
Here’s a global price comparison for popular vision correction procedures:
| Country | LASIK (per eye) | PRK (per eye) | SMILE (per eye) | ICL (per eye) |
| USA | $2,000 – $4,500 | $1,800 – $3,500 | $2,500 – $5,000 | $3,500 – $7,000 |
| UK | £1,500 – £3,500 | £1,200 – £3,000 | £2,000 – £4,500 | £3,000 – £6,500 |
| India | ₹25,000 – ₹80,000 | ₹20,000 – ₹60,000 | ₹50,000 – ₹1,20,000 | ₹70,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
| Australia | AUD 2,200 – 5,000 | AUD 2,000 – 4,500 | AUD 3,000 – 6,000 | AUD 4,000 – 8,000 |
As you can see, India offers some of the most affordable refractive surgery costs, making it a popular choice for medical tourism.
City-Wise Cost Variation in India
Prices can also differ depending on where you get the procedure done.
Larger metro cities generally have higher costs due to better facilities and more experienced surgeons. Here’s an approximate breakdown:
| City | LASIK Cost (Per Eye) | ICL Cost (Per Eye) |
| Delhi | ₹30,000 – ₹80,000 | ₹80,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
| Mumbai | ₹35,000 – ₹90,000 | ₹85,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
| Bangalore | ₹30,000 – ₹85,000 | ₹75,000 – ₹1,40,000 |
| Chennai | ₹28,000 – ₹75,000 | ₹70,000 – ₹1,30,000 |
| Hyderabad | ₹25,000 – ₹70,000 | ₹65,000 – ₹1,20,000 |
Smaller cities may offer lower prices, but technology and expertise may vary, so it’s essential to research thoroughly before choosing a clinic.
Factors Affecting Refractive Surgery Cost
The cost of refractive surgery isn’t fixed—several factors play a role in determining how much you’ll pay.
Let’s explore the key elements influencing pricing.
1. Type of Surgery (LASIK, PRK, SMILE, ICL, RLE) – Which is More Expensive?
- LASIK is generally the most affordable option.
- PRK costs slightly less but has a longer recovery period.
- SMILE is a premium procedure with higher costs due to advanced technology.
- ICL & RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange) are more expensive as they involve implanting a lens inside the eye.
2. Technology & Equipment Used
- Standard LASIK vs. Bladeless LASIK (Femtosecond LASIK) – bladeless is more expensive due to better precision and faster healing.
- Wavefront-guided LASIK & Topography-guided LASIK – these advanced versions come at a premium but offer superior results.
3. Surgeon’s Expertise & Clinic Reputation
- A highly experienced surgeon with a strong track record will charge more, but better results and safety justify the cost.
- Well-known hospitals and eye care chains (e.g., Centre for Sight, Max Healthcare, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital) have higher prices than smaller clinics.
4. Hospital Location – Metro Cities vs. Smaller Towns
- Major cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore) have higher costs due to better infrastructure and specialist availability.
- Smaller cities may offer cheaper surgeries, but quality and technology may be lower.
5. Pre-Surgery Tests & Consultations – Hidden Costs to Consider
Many people only focus on the surgery price, but there are additional pre-operative expenses, including:
✅ Eye scans & corneal mapping – ₹2,000 – ₹5,000
✅ Doctor consultation fees – ₹500 – ₹2,000 per visit
✅ Diagnostic tests (Pachymetry, Topography, Pupil Dilation) – ₹1,500 – ₹3,000
The cost of refractive surgery depends on multiple factors, from the type of procedure to the hospital’s location and the surgeon’s experience.
Advanced procedures like SMILE and ICL increase the Refractive Surgery Cost, but they offer better long-term results.
While India offers some of the most affordable prices globally, it’s important to choose quality over price alone to ensure safe and effective results.
Next, we’ll discuss whether refractive surgery is covered by insurance and financing options available to make it more affordable. Stay tuned! 🚀
Cost Comparison of Different Refractive Surgeries
When choosing refractive surgery, one of the biggest factors to consider is cost.
Each procedure comes with different pricing based on technology, complexity, and long-term benefits.
Let’s break down the cost of different refractive surgeries and understand what makes some options more expensive than others.
LASIK Surgery Cost – Standard vs. Bladeless LASIK Pricing
LASIK is the most well-known and widely performed laser eye surgery, but prices vary based on whether you choose standard LASIK or bladeless LASIK (also called femtosecond LASIK).
| Type of LASIK | Cost Per Eye (India) | Cost Per Eye (USA) |
| Standard LASIK (Microkeratome Blade) | ₹25,000 – ₹50,000 | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Bladeless LASIK (Femtosecond Laser) | ₹50,000 – ₹80,000 | $3,000 – $4,500 |
| Wavefront-guided LASIK | ₹60,000 – ₹90,000 | $3,500 – $5,000 |
🔹 Why is Bladeless LASIK more expensive? It uses an advanced femtosecond laser to create the corneal flap instead of a mechanical blade, leading to higher precision and reduced complications.
PRK Surgery Cost – How It Compares to LASIK in Terms of Price
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is slightly cheaper than LASIK because it does not involve creating a corneal flap.
Instead, the outer layer of the cornea is removed and allowed to heal naturally.
| Procedure | Cost Per Eye (India) | Cost Per Eye (USA) |
| PRK Surgery | ₹20,000 – ₹60,000 | $1,800 – $3,500 |
🔹 Why is PRK cheaper than LASIK? Since PRK doesn’t use a femtosecond laser to create a flap, the technology cost is lower, making it a more affordable option for patients with thin corneas.
SMILE Surgery Cost – Why It’s Often More Expensive
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive laser eye surgery that doesn’t require a corneal flap, making it a great option for people prone to dry eyes.
| Procedure | Cost Per Eye (India) | Cost Per Eye (USA) |
| SMILE Surgery | ₹50,000 – ₹1,20,000 | $2,500 – $5,000 |
🔹 Why is SMILE more expensive?
✅ Uses advanced femtosecond laser technology
✅ Less invasive with a faster recovery time
✅ Lower risk of dry eye syndrome
ICL Surgery Cost – Best Option for High Myopia but Costly
ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery is the best option for people with high myopia (-8D and above) or thin corneas where LASIK/SMILE is not suitable.
It involves implanting a biocompatible lens inside the eye, providing clear and sharp vision without altering the cornea.
| Procedure | Cost Per Eye (India) | Cost Per Eye (USA) |
| ICL Surgery | ₹70,000 – ₹1,50,000 | $3,500 – $7,000 |
🔹 Why is ICL surgery expensive?
✅ Uses a high-quality Collamer lens
✅ Suitable for extreme myopia, unlike LASIK
✅ Reversible procedure
RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange) Cost – Alternative for Aging Eyes
RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange) is similar to cataract surgery but is done for vision correction.
Instead of using a laser to reshape the cornea, the natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL), making it ideal for people over 40 who also have presbyopia.
| Procedure | Cost Per Eye (India) | Cost Per Eye (USA) |
| RLE Surgery | ₹80,000 – ₹2,00,000 | $4,000 – $7,500 |
🔹 Why is RLE the most expensive?
✅ Uses premium multifocal or trifocal IOLs
✅ Permanent solution for both near and far vision
✅ Prevents future cataract development
The cost of refractive surgery depends on the procedure, technology, and patient needs.
While LASIK remains the most affordable option, SMILE, ICL, and RLE provide specialized benefits for specific cases.
Choosing the right surgery isn’t just about cost—it’s about long-term vision quality and eye health.
Next, we’ll explore insurance coverage and EMI options to make refractive surgery more affordable. Stay tuned! 🚀
Is Refractive Surgery Covered by Insurance?
One of the most common concerns people have about refractive surgery is whether health insurance covers the cost.
Since these procedures can be expensive, knowing your insurance and financing options can help you make an informed decision.
Does Health Insurance Cover LASIK & Other Surgeries?
Why Most Insurance Providers Don’t Cover Refractive Surgery
In most cases, LASIK, SMILE, PRK, and ICL surgery are considered elective procedures rather than medically necessary.
Since these surgeries are done for vision enhancement rather than a medical condition, most health insurance plans do not cover them.
However, some exceptions exist where insurance may partially or fully cover refractive surgery.
When Insurance Might Cover Refractive Surgery (Medical Necessity Cases)
✅ High Refractive Errors – If your prescription is extremely high (e.g., beyond -10D or +6D), some policies may consider ICL or RLE surgery medically necessary.
✅ Corneal Irregularities or Diseases – In cases of keratoconus or corneal scarring, PRK or corneal cross-linking (CXL) may be covered.
✅ Post-Trauma or Surgery Vision Correction – If vision loss occurred due to an accident or surgery, some insurers may help cover the cost.
✅ Refractive Surgery for Military or Specific Jobs – In some cases, government employees, defense personnel, and pilots may be eligible for reimbursement.
🔹 Pro Tip: Check with your insurance provider and get a written confirmation on whether your case qualifies for coverage.
EMI & Financing Options for Refractive Surgery
Even if insurance doesn’t cover LASIK or other surgeries, there are several financing options available to make it more affordable.
1. Interest-Free EMI Plans
Many eye hospitals and clinics partner with banks and financial institutions to offer 0% EMI options. These plans allow you to pay for your surgery in easy monthly installments instead of a lump sum.
✅ Available for LASIK, SMILE, PRK, ICL, and RLE surgeries
✅ Tenure options: 3 months to 24 months
✅ Credit card or medical finance partner required
2. Medical Loans & Healthcare Financing
Some banks and NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial Companies) provide personal or medical loans specifically for health-related expenses. These loans typically have low-interest rates and can be repaid over time.
🔹 Popular medical loan providers in India: Bajaj Finserv, Tata Capital, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank
3. Flexible Payment Plans from Clinics
Some premium eye hospitals offer their own in-house payment plans, allowing patients to pay in installments without needing a third-party loan.
🔹 Pro Tip: Ask your clinic about discounts, seasonal offers, or referral programs to reduce costs.
While health insurance rarely covers refractive surgery, EMI plans and financing options make it accessible and affordable.
If you’re considering surgery, explore these payment solutions to choose the best financial option without compromising on quality.
Want to know which financing plan suits you best? Contact your preferred eye hospital for more details! 🚀
How to Choose the Right Clinic for Refractive Surgery
Choosing the right clinic and surgeon for refractive surgery is just as important as selecting the best procedure for your eyes.
With so many options available, how do you ensure safety, quality, and value for money? Here’s a detailed checklist to help you make the right choice.
✅ Checklist for Selecting a Trusted Hospital & Experienced Surgeon
1️⃣ Surgeon’s Experience & Credentials
🔹 Look for an ophthalmologist with at least 5-10 years of experience in refractive surgery.
🔹 Check if they are certified by medical boards (e.g., AIOS in India, AAO in the USA).
🔹 Ask about the number of successful surgeries performed and their complication rate.
2️⃣ Technology & Equipment Used
🔹 Ensure the clinic has the latest laser technology (e.g., Femtosecond LASIK, Contoura Vision, SMILE, or ICL lenses).
🔹 Ask if the machines are FDA-approved and regularly calibrated for precision.
🔹 Some clinics offer customized treatments like Wavefront-guided LASIK—which can improve results.
3️⃣ Patient Reviews & Testimonials
🔹 Read Google reviews, social media feedback, and patient testimonials to gauge satisfaction levels.
🔹 Look for before-and-after success stories shared by previous patients.
🔹 If possible, speak to a former patient to get real-world insights.
4️⃣ Comprehensive Pre-Surgery Evaluation
🔹 A good clinic will conduct a thorough eye examination before recommending any procedure.
🔹 Beware of places that promise LASIK without a full eye health assessment.
5️⃣ Aftercare & Follow-up Services
🔹 A quality eye clinic provides detailed post-surgery care and follow-up visits.
🔹 Ensure they offer emergency support in case of complications.
Take the time to research clinics, compare options, and consult multiple surgeons before making a decision.
Want help choosing the best clinic near you? Start by checking patient reviews and hospital accreditations today! 🚀
FAQs About Refractive Surgery Cost
What is the cheapest refractive surgery available?
The most affordable refractive surgery is usually PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), followed by standard LASIK.
PRK costs less because it doesn’t require creating a corneal flap and uses simpler technology. However, healing takes longer compared to LASIK.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, standard LASIK is a great balance between cost and faster recovery.
Why is LASIK cheaper than SMILE or ICL?
LASIK is more affordable because it’s widely available, uses standard laser technology, and has been around for decades.
In contrast:
🔹 SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is more expensive because it uses advanced femtosecond laser technology and is performed by fewer specialized surgeons.
🔹 ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery costs even more as it involves implanting a custom-made lens inside the eye, which adds to material and procedure costs.
Is there a way to reduce the cost of surgery?
Yes! Here are some ways to lower your refractive surgery costs:
✅ Compare clinics & negotiate pricing – Some hospitals offer price matching or flexible payment plans.
✅ Look for EMI & financing options – Many clinics offer 0% interest EMI plans so you can pay in easy installments.
✅ Use insurance if applicable – In rare cases, insurance might cover part of the cost if it’s medically necessary.
✅ Book during discount seasons – Some hospitals offer festive discounts, referral bonuses, or student offers.
By exploring multiple options, financing plans, and seasonal offers, you can get the best treatment within your budget! 🚀
Conclusion: Is Refractive Surgery Worth the Cost?
Refractive surgery is a life-changing investment, offering clear vision without glasses or contacts.
While the cost varies based on the procedure, technology, and surgeon’s expertise, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial expense.
💡 Key Takeaways for Budget-Conscious Patients:
✅ PRK and Standard LASIK are the most affordable options.
✅ SMILE and ICL offer premium results but come at a higher price.
✅ Financing options like EMI plans make surgery more accessible.
✅ Seasonal discounts, referral programs, and hospital offers can reduce costs.
✅ Investing in a skilled surgeon and advanced technology ensures safety and success.
If you’re considering refractive surgery, the best next step is to book a consultation with a trusted eye specialist.
Many clinics offer free assessments and EMI plans, making it easier to find the best option within your budget.
🔹 Ready to take the first step? Schedule a consultation today with our eye specialist Dr. Swapil Rathod and explore financing options that work for you! 🚀
