LASIK Eye Surgery Cost 2026: Full Pricing Breakdown, Alternatives & Is It Worth It?

LASIK eye surgery costs $2,200–$3,000 per eye in 2026, with the national average around $2,400/eye for a total of $4,800 for both eyes with a reputable provider. 'Discount' LASIK ads for $299/eye or $1,000/eye are misleading — these prices apply only to low-prescription patients with ideal corneal thickness, which excludes most candidates. PRK is $200–$500 less per eye than LASIK but involves a longer recovery. SMILE is a newer bladeless alternative priced similarly to LASIK. The 10-year break-even vs. glasses and contacts is typically 4–6 years, making LASIK financially rational for anyone who wears correction daily.