How much does eye surgery generally cost?

Oct 31, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Shuai

Introduction

SMILE laser vision correction: reference price 18,000–25,000 RMB per session; FS-LASIK (femtosecond LASIK) laser vision correction: reference price 10,000–16,000 RMB per session; TransPRK (total surface ablation) laser vision correction: reference price 18,000–25,000 RMB per session; ICL implantable collamer lens surgery: reference price 30,000–40,000 RMB per session, etc.

In general, eye surgeries can be divided into four main types, with corresponding reference prices as follows: SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) laser surgery for myopia, priced at approximately 18,000–25,000 yuan per session; LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) with femtosecond laser, priced at approximately 10,000–16,000 yuan per session; TransPRK (Total Surface Ablation) laser surgery, priced at approximately 18,000–25,000 yuan per session; and ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) implantation surgery, priced at approximately 30,000–40,000 yuan per session. Factors influencing the cost of eye surgery include hospital tier, surgical equipment, and the patient's individual eye condition.

Different types of eye surgeries and their reference prices:

Procedure Name	SMILE Laser Surgery for Myopia	LASIK with Femtosecond Laser	TransPRK Laser Surgery for Myopia	ICL Implantation Surgery
Reference Price	18,000–25,000 yuan/session	10,000–16,000 yuan/session	18,000–25,000 yuan/session	30,000–40,000 yuan/session
Principle	A femtosecond laser performs two scans at different depths within the corneal stroma to create and remove a lenticule.	A femtosecond laser first creates a corneal flap, followed by excimer laser ablation of the corneal stroma.	The laser removes the corneal epithelium and precisely corrects refractive errors through the epithelial layer—bladeless, flapless, gentle, and contact-free.	A small incision is made in the cornea, and an ultra-thin collamer lens is implanted in front of the natural lens.
Illustration
Suitable Candidates	Patients with myopia under 900 degrees, sufficient corneal thickness, and those who are physically active.	Patients requiring a wide range of vision correction and whose corneas meet the requirements for laser surgery.	Patients with mild to moderate myopia or insufficient corneal thickness for SMILE or LASIK procedures.	Patients with very high myopia (≥1000 degrees), or those with moderate to high myopia and thin corneas.
Recovery Period	1–2 days	1–2 days	3–5 days	3–7 days
Duration of Effect	25–30 years	25–30 years	25–30 years	25–30 years
Advantages	1. Small incision 2. High safety profile	1. Lower risk 2. Small incision	1. Relatively stable results 2. No risk of flap-related complications	1. No corneal cutting required 2. Suitable for patients with very high myopia
Potential Risks	1. Corneal flap complications 2. Dry eye syndrome	1. Flap displacement 2. Risk of infection	1. Possible impact on visual quality 2. Risk of infection	1. Cataract development 2. Eye infection

Factors affecting the cost:

1. Hospital Services
Differences in facilities and services among hospitals lead to variations in pricing.

2. Surgical Equipment
There are various types of laser surgeries, and each hospital may use different equipment. Generally, more advanced technology results in higher costs.

3. Patient’s Eye Condition
The patient’s ocular health significantly affects the price. For example, individuals with additional eye conditions may not qualify for standard myopia surgery, potentially requiring more complex treatments that increase the overall cost.

When choosing a surgical option, patients should consider both their individual eye conditions and financial circumstances, and seek treatment at reputable, professional ophthalmic hospitals.

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What should I pay attention to after eye surgery?

In general, after undergoing eye surgery, it is important to protect the eye by keeping it clean and dry, avoiding strenuous activities, ensuring adequate rest, maintaining a balanced nutritional intake, and protecting the eyes from sun exposure. A well-balanced diet should be maintained in daily life, including sufficient intake of nutrients beneficial to eye health, such as vitamins A, C, E, and zinc. These nutrients help protect the retina and prevent eye diseases.