Cataract Surgery Costs - Pricing Info for Patients

Since cataracts are the number one reason for the loss of vision in those aged 55 and older, cataract surgery is on the rise. Cataracts are a cloudiness of the lens of the eye, behind the pupil and iris. Cataracts are made of protein, and builds up over time making it hard to see. There are 3 types of cataracts: subcapsular, nuclear and cortical. The  subcapsular start at the rear of the lens, nuclear are formed in the center of the lens and the cortical forms on the cortex of the lens. Cataract surgery is successful for restoring vision, and is the most performed surgery in the US. During surgery the old lens is removed, and a new intraocular lens is put in its place. There are many types of cataract surgery, and the type will affect the cost.

Average Costs

The type of lens that is used to replace your lens will affect the cost of your cataract surgery. There are new plastic lenses that can be used, and these are less expensive than the older lenses. Lenses that are used to correct presbyopia, and others that block ultraviolet and blue lights are available to help protect the retina. On average, the cataract surgery costs about $3,400 per eye in 2009. However, if you have presbyopia correcting lenses inserted, your cataract surgery can cost as much as $4,000 per eye. For many people, insurance will not cover the surgery fully. There are instances where it will be covered by Medicare or Medicaid, and you should contact your provider for information. However, it is generally seen that those persons covered by Medicare will pay about an average of $1,900 out of pocket if the presbyopia correcting lenses are used instead of no correctional lenses.

Affecting Costs

There are some costs that must be paid for out of pocket that is generally not covered in the cost of your surgery. This includes a comprehensive eye exam that includes the refractive errors of your eyes, anesthesia, and glasses if your vision is not perfect after surgery as well as follows up procedures or care if you have complications due to the cataract surgery.

For more information on cataract surgery and other vision care treatments, contact our Bakersfield eye surgery center today to schedule a consultation.