Cataract Surgery Price
The cataract surgery is one of the most common surgeries performed around the globe. The cataract surgery is the least expensive of all surgeries. In most cases, the patient does not need to be hospitalized. It is also performed mainly on the elderly, and they are almost all insured. In some countries the government pays for such an operation that is performed in public hospitals. According to recent surveys, a cataract surgery on a single eye costs around $3500.
Cost depends on different factors:
The skill of the surgeon
The eye is an extremely complex organ. The smallest mistake can lead to blindness. Only the most experienced surgeon should be chosen by the patient for this procedure. The more experienced the surgeon, the higher the price. It is better to go with a high-priced, highly skilled surgeon rather than a cheap surgeon who lacks experience.
Types of IOLs implanted
Costs also vary depending on the type of IOL implanted. Insurance companies do not pay for high-quality lenses or imported lenses. Toric lenses can cost up to $1500, while refractive lenses can cost as much as $2500 per eye. These lenses are not only effective in resolving cataracts, but also astigmatism, and presbyopia.
Use of Laser
The cost of a laser-assisted cataract surgery will be higher than that of a conventional cataract surgery. According to Woodham eye clinic surgeon Femto-assisted laser cataract surgery isn’t worth the money. It is expensive and produces the same results as non-laser cataract surgery.
Region of hospital and choice
Prices also vary depending on the hospital, and where the patient plans to have the surgery. Only experienced surgeons work in high-end hospitals. The equipment in high-end hospitals is of the highest quality. For replacement, many high-end hospitals use imported lenses. In rural areas, the cost is lower because the surgeons and equipment are indigenous.
Tests, medication and post-operative visits
If the patient is hospitalized due to a slow recovery, the cost of treatment will increase. Steroids can be expensive and are used to reduce swelling after surgery.
Costs covered by Medicare
Medicare is the United States’ health insurance for people over 65 who have worked in a profession. Medicare health insurance is applicable to cataract surgery. Medicare will cover 80% of your entire treatment. The patient is responsible for the rest.
Standard Medicare procedures include:
- Remove the previous lens.
- A monofocal implant is a lens that has been implanted.
- After a cataract operation, you will need to wear a pair of glasses.
What does Medicare not cover?
If the patient wishes to pay for a premium implant, they can do so on their own. Medicare does not cover laser-assisted surgery.