How Much Does Cataract Surgery Cost?

Cataract surgery is the most commonly-carried out operation in the US. Therefore, it’s likely that all of us will, at some point in our lives, want to know how much it’s going to cost. However, the answer isn’t as simple as a defined number of dollars per eye—various aspects will determine the final price.

The following looks at what these are, as well as discusses whether or not cataract surgery might be covered by your medical insurance or Medicare.

The Lowdown on Cataract Surgery Cost

• Traditional cataract surgery cost
• Laser cataract surgery cost
• IOL choice affects total cataract surgery cost

Traditional cataract surgery cost

Traditional cataract surgery is generally covered by health insurance and/or Medicare. However, even with such cover, you’ll likely have to pay some out-of-pocket expenses surrounding medication and other deductibles.

However, if you were to consider the cost of traditional cataract surgery without medical cover, it typically ranges anywhere between $3,000 to $6,000 per eye.

Laser cataract surgery cost

Laser cataract surgery is the most advanced form of treatment. While the general concept is the same—the diseased lens is removed and replaced by an artificial one–this type uses digital mapping of the eye and the incision, lens removal, and replacement is all guided by the resulting software program.

The process provides highly accurate placement of the artificial lens (known as an intraocular lens—IOL) and is mandatory if you decide that you want a more advanced lens or you want concurrent treatment for astigmatism. 

Laser cataract surgery isn’t usually 100% covered by Medicare or health insurance. The cost of laser cataract surgery without any insurance coverage can be as high as $12,000 per eye, depending on the type of lens you choose.

IOL choice affects cataract surgery cost

While the above costs sound high, one of the main drivers of price is the lens that you choose. IOLs come in many different types. The most simple is a monofocal lens. This will allow you to have good vision either near or far away, with this being supported by eyeglasses to enable good all-round eyesight.

Today, there are many other types of lenses that can offer excellent vision focus. These include:

• Bi or trifocal lenses: As the name suggests, you shouldn’t need any type of vision correction lenses with these, leaving you with a life free from eyeglasses.
• Toric lenses: That correct astigmatism
• Extended vision lenses: As well as allowing great vision at near and medium distances, they also protect the eyes from blue light and UV rays.

Such advanced vision lenses offer many advantages and will be chosen with the advice of your ophthalmologist. There are many different kinds that are suited to a variety of vision needs.

The costs vary but can start from as little as $1,500.

Cataract Surgery via Medical Insurance and Medicare

• What is and isn’t covered

What is and isn’t covered

In general, Medicare covers the removal of the diseased lens through traditional surgery, a monofocal lens, and a single pair of eyeglasses. However, if you want to go for laser cataract surgery and a more advanced lens, then it’s likely you’ll be able to benefit from the same amount of cover but pay for any excess yourself.

You’re advised to speak to Medicare or your insurance provider to find out what they’ll pay for before committing to any treatment option.

Ready to take the next step? Browse our directory of top cataract surgeons and read real patient reviews before you choose.