LASIK vs. Contact Lenses: Making the Right Choice for Your Vision

LASIK Cost Breakdown

$2,246*

*Average cost of LASIK eye surgery per eye in the United States according to a 2024 Market Scope report of last year’s data.

✓ No ongoing costs
✓ Potential FSA/HSA eligible
✓ Many financing options available

Contact Lens Expenses

$14,000+*

*The annual cost of contact lenses varies, but a conservative estimate places the average at approximately $240 per year for standard lenses. For those who use daily disposable contacts, the cost is significantly higher, averaging between $450 and $650 annually, depending on the brand and frequency of use. Over an adult lifetime of 60 years (based on the average U.S. life expectancy of 78 years), the total cost of contact lenses can range from $14,000 to $39,000 depending on various factors like age, prescription, brand, etc.

Life After LASIK

• Wake up with clear vision
• No daily lens maintenance
• Freedom for sports and swimming
• No packing supplies for travel

Contact Lens Routine

• Daily insertion and removal
• Regular cleaning and storage
• Limited wear during water activities
• Travel considerations for supplies

• Allergen Issues: Contacts trap allergens that can irritate eyes. 
• Corneal Abrasions: Improper lens handling can cause scratches on the eye, leading to painful abrasions and increased infection risks. 
• Allergic Reactions: Users may develop allergic reactions to the lens material or cleaning solutions, causing irritation and discomfort. 
• Eye Infections: Improper care, extended wear, or expired lenses increase the risk of infections such as conjunctivitis or corneal ulcers. 

• Increased Risk of Blepharitis: Lens wear can contribute to inflammation of the eyelids, especially with poor hygiene. 
• Hypoxia: Wearing lenses for too long can cause hypoxia (lack of oxygen to the eye), leading to complications like corneal neovascularization. 
• Lens Discomfort: Lenses may shift, causing irritation or even injury if trapped behind the eyelid. 
• Contact Lens Toxicity: Overuse or exposure to harmful chemicals in cleaning solutions may cause irritation or damage to the cornea.