PRK cost: why we show no PRK range
No peer-reviewed study, government data set or public fee schedule reports what patients pay for PRK, so this page gives no PRK dollar range. PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) reshapes the cornea with the same kind of laser as LASIK but treats the surface instead of cutting a flap. The nearest procedure with sourced prices is LASIK:
| Procedure | Per eye: low | Per eye: typical | Per eye: high | Both eyes, typical |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LASIK | $1,500 | $2,400 | $3,500 | $4,800 |
| PRK | no published price |
The LASIK range comes from a peer-reviewed review that put laser vision correction at about $2,000 ± $1,000 per eye, with corporate chains averaging just under $2,000.[1] An industry-funded council gives a national LASIK average of $2,250 per eye and says PRK is often less expensive than LASIK or SMILE.[2] So a fair PRK quote will usually sit at or below the LASIK range, but only a written quote tells you the number. For LASIK on its own, see LASIK eye surgery cost.
SMILE eye surgery cost
No independent source publishes SMILE prices, so we do not give a separate range; use the LASIK range as a starting point and get a written quote. SMILE is a newer laser procedure that removes a small piece of corneal tissue through a small opening. The American Academy of Ophthalmology says an implantable lens (ICL) typically costs about twice as much as LASIK and more than PRK or SMILE,[3] and the industry council above places PRK below SMILE.[2] SMILE is still uncommon: newer procedures such as SMILE made up less than 5% of laser vision procedures in a 2021 review, against 80–85% for LASIK and 10–15% for PRK.[1]
| Procedure | Price position | Source of the comparison |
|---|---|---|
| PRK | Often the least expensive laser option | Industry-funded council |
| LASIK | About $1,500–$3,500 per eye | Peer-reviewed review and industry data |
| SMILE | Above PRK; no published price | Industry-funded council; AAO |
| ICL (implantable lens) | About twice LASIK | American Academy of Ophthalmology |
What is included in a PRK quote
Most laser centers quote one price that covers the pre-surgery evaluation, the procedure and follow-up visits, but what "included" means varies, so ask for the list in writing. Check these items:
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Per eye or both eyes? | Advertised prices are often per eye; most people treat both |
| Pre-op evaluation | A separate comprehensive eye exam typically costs $140–$360 (see eye exam cost) |
| Follow-up visits | Ask how many are included and for how long |
| Prescriptions after surgery | Eye drops may be billed separately |
| Enhancement (touch-up) | Some quotes include a retreatment, others charge for it |
| Price by prescription | Ask whether the quoted price changes with your prescription |
Before you schedule, you can ask for a written good faith estimate.[9] The FDA advises against choosing a surgeon based on cost alone and warns about ads for package deals.[5]
Does insurance cover PRK?
Usually not. The FDA says most medical insurance will not pay for refractive surgery, and the American Academy of Ophthalmology describes these procedures as elective and not covered by insurance.[4][3] You can still use pre-tax money: the IRS counts eye surgery to treat defective vision, such as laser eye surgery, as a medical expense.[6]
Paying $4,800 for both eyes (the typical LASIK price) from an FSA or HSA through payroll saves about $1,663 in tax at a 22% bracket and 5% state tax. A health FSA is capped at $3,500 for 2027 (about $1,213 of tax saved), and an HSA at $4,500 for self-only coverage.[7][8] The pre-tax savings calculator works for eye surgery too.
Ways to pay less for PRK
- Get written quotes from at least two surgeons, for both eyes, listing exactly what is included.
- Raise your FSA election at open enrollment for the year you plan surgery, or save in an HSA if you have a qualifying plan.
- Ask whether the quote is lower for PRK than for LASIK at that practice, if both are suitable for your eyes.
- Spread the remainder with an interest-free plan rather than a deferred-interest card; the payment plan calculator works for any bill.
Price is not the whole decision.The FDA lists risks of laser vision correction, including loss of vision, glare, halos and dry eye.[5] Which procedure suits your eyes is a medical question for an eye surgeon; this site compares prices only.
Frequently asked questions
How much does PRK cost?
Is PRK cheaper than LASIK?
Often slightly. An industry-funded council says PRK procedures are often less expensive than LASIK or SMILE.[2] No independent data show by how much, so compare written quotes from the same practice.
How much does SMILE eye surgery cost?
Can I use an FSA or HSA for PRK?
Yes. Laser eye surgery to treat defective vision is a qualified medical expense.[6]
Sources
- The 25th Anniversary of Laser Vision Correction in the United States (Joffe)
- How Much Does LASIK Cost? (industry-funded council)
- Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)
- When is LASIK not for me?
- What are the risks and how can I find the right doctor for me?
- Publication 502: Medical and Dental Expenses
- Rev. Proc. 2026-35: inflation adjustments for 2027 (health FSA limit and carryover)
- Rev. Proc. 2026-24: 2027 HSA contribution limits and HDHP amounts
- Good faith estimate guide (No Surprises Act, uninsured and self-pay patients)