How Much Does Laser Eye Surgery Cost in Australia?

Laser eye surgery in Australia usually costs $1,500 to $4,000 per eye for LASIK or PRK, and $3,300 to $5,000 per eye for SMILE. For both eyes, expect a total of about $3,000 to $14,000 depending on the procedure and clinic. Medicare doesn't cover it unless it's needed to treat a more serious condition.

Here's how the main procedures compare and what to check before you book.

Laser eye surgery costs per eye

• LASIK: $1,500 to $4,000
• PRK: $1,500 to $4,000
• SMILE: $3,300 to $5,000
• ICL (implantable contact lens): $5,000 to $7,000

Source: Finder, laser eye surgery costs. Clinics set their own prices, so ask for a written quote.

How the procedures differ

LASIK creates a thin flap in the cornea and reshapes the tissue underneath with a laser. Recovery is usually quick.

PRK removes the surface layer of the cornea instead of making a flap. Recovery takes longer and can be more uncomfortable, but it can suit people with thinner corneas.

SMILE uses a laser to make a small incision and remove a thin piece of tissue. It usually costs more.

ICL places a lens inside the eye. It's often used for people who aren't suited to laser surgery, such as those with very high prescriptions.

Your surgeon will recommend the right option after a full assessment.

What's usually included in the price

Ask whether the quote includes:

• The initial assessment and scans
• The procedure for one or both eyes
• Follow-up appointments, often for 12 months
• Any enhancement if your vision needs a touch-up later
• Eye drops and medication

Some clinics advertise a low price per eye but charge extra for assessments or follow-ups, so compare the total.

Does Medicare or private health cover it?

Medicare doesn't cover laser eye surgery, because it's treated as elective. The exception is when surgery is needed for a more serious condition.

Private health insurance rarely covers it. Some top-level policies pay part of the cost, but usually after a waiting period of 1 to 3 years. The extra premiums can outweigh what you'd get back.

Is it worth it?

Compare the cost with what you spend on glasses and contact lenses. If you spend $500 a year on contacts and solutions, $5,000 for both eyes works out to about ten years of contact lens costs. Many people also value the convenience.

It isn't right for everyone, though. Your prescription needs to be stable, and your eyes need to be healthy enough for surgery.

How to choose a clinic

1. Check your surgeon is an ophthalmologist registered with AHPRA.
2. Have a full assessment before you commit.
3. Compare the total cost, including follow-ups and enhancements.
4. Ask about risks and recovery time for your recommended procedure.
5. Be wary of pressure to book on the day.

Paying for laser eye surgery

Many clinics offer payment plans. If you'd rather use a personal loan, Jingle's medical loans range from $500 to $10,000, with fixed repayments and no early repayment fees. Only borrow if the repayments fit your budget. Approval is not guaranteed.

Frequently asked questions

How much is LASIK in Australia?

Usually $1,500 to $4,000 per eye, or about $3,000 to $8,000 for both eyes.

Is laser eye surgery covered by Medicare?

No, unless it's needed to treat a more serious condition. It's treated as elective surgery.

Does private health insurance cover laser eye surgery?

Rarely. A few top-level policies pay part of the cost after a waiting period of 1 to 3 years.

Which is cheaper, LASIK or SMILE?

LASIK is usually cheaper, at $1,500 to $4,000 per eye compared with $3,300 to $5,000 for SMILE.

Can I pay for laser eye surgery in instalments?

Many clinics offer payment plans. You can also use savings or a personal loan if the repayments fit your budget.

Sources

• Finder: Laser eye surgery costs, compare 5 procedures