Glasses—they’re troublesome to deal with, get lost or broken, and you have to update your prescription every year or so. And if you’re at the end of your rope with them, then you might also be starting to consider LASIK eye surgery as an option to finally rid yourself of them.
All of that is fair and valid because, when you consider both costs, you’ll find that the cost of LASIK in Orange County is actually more practical from a long-term view. That’s because however quick and reliable glasses are as a solution, they are not a permanent fix. Considering how vision problems progress over the years, you’ll frequently pay a tab just to see clearly.
That makes it all the more important to weigh the costs of each against their long-term benefits when choosing to continue with your glasses or getting LASIK eye surgery. Let’s take a look at it in this article.
The Cost of Glasses Over a Lifetime
For many, glasses are the most straightforward and cost-effective option for correcting vision. However, the expenses can quickly accumulate when you add up the costs over the years.
One of the most significant drawbacks of glasses is the recurring expense. On average, people need to purchase new glasses every one to two years. This includes the cost of new lenses, updated prescriptions, and frames.
Recent estimates suggest that the average pair of glasses can cost anywhere from $200 to $400, depending on the prescription and style. Over a decade, this adds up to thousands of dollars, and that’s not even accounting for price inflations and the costs of other implements.
In addition to regular glasses, you will also need prescription sunglasses, which can cost just as much or more. Specialty lenses, such as those for progressive vision or blue light protection, tend to have higher price tags, adding a significant weight to the cost of glasses.
Accounting for All Costs of Glasses
Beyond the obvious costs of purchasing new glasses, several often overlooked expenses exist. Repair fees for broken or damaged glasses can add up, and the cost of cleaning solutions, microfiber cloths, and protective cases may seem minor but accumulate over time.
Keeping your prescription updated also requires time and effort, typically requiring annual visits to the optometrist. Factoring in both of these can significantly impact the overall expense of glasses.
Use our Contacts and Glasses Cost Calculator to estimate the costs of your glasses over time.
The Cost of LASIK Surgery
While LASIK surgery may seem like a substantial upfront investment, it is often more cost-effective in the long run than the continuous expense of glasses. With LASIK, the focus shifts from recurring costs to the benefits of a one-time payment for long-term vision correction.
One-time Investment
The most significant advantage of LASIK surgery is that it’s a one-time investment. Once the procedure is done, the results are often permanent, eliminating the need for new prescriptions or corrective eyewear. When you compare the upfront cost of LASIK to the cumulative expenses of glasses over time, LASIK often emerges as the more economical option.
Consider that the average cost of LASIK surgery ranges between $2,000 and $3,500 per eye. While this may seem steep initially, the long-term savings can be significant when you no longer need to purchase new glasses, prescription sunglasses, or specialty lenses every few years.
Accessing LASIK Through Various Financing Options
Many clinics offer financing options, including 0% financing and flexible payment plans, to make LASIK more affordable. This allows patients to spread out the cost of the procedure over time, making it more manageable. For instance, monthly payments can be as low as $100 to $300, depending on the financing plan chosen.
Moreover, LASIK becomes an even more appealing option when you factor in the potential long-term savings. LASIK can pay for itself in just a few years by eliminating the need for future eyewear expenses, offering a lifetime of clear vision without the ongoing financial burden of glasses.
The Benefits of LASIK Surgery
LASIK surgery offers more than cost savings; it is worth the investment for various reasons. It provides a range of lifestyle and vision benefits that can improve your overall quality of life.
- Permanent Vision Correction: One of the primary benefits of LASIK is permanent vision correction. Once your cornea has been corrected, you no longer need to rely on glasses or contact lenses to see clearly.
- Improved Quality of Life: With clear vision, you can enjoy the freedom from glasses and participate more easily in sports, outdoor adventures, and social events. LASIK also improves specific vision aspects, such as night vision, reducing glare and halos that can be problematic with glasses.
Final Thoughts: Weighing Costs Against Benefits
In summary, while glasses seem more affordable at first glance, the cumulative costs over a lifetime can be significant. On the other hand, LASIK offers a one-time investment with long-term benefits, potentially saving you thousands of dollars over time.
Beyond the cost savings, LASIK provides a range of lifestyle advantages, from convenience and freedom to improved vision quality. When deciding, it’s essential to weigh both the costs and benefits carefully.
If you’re ready to explore whether LASIK is the right choice, consider scheduling a consultation with Saddleback Eye Center. With expert guidance and personalized care, you can make an informed decision prioritizing your vision and overall well-being.
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