Most patients considering LASIK focus on the upfront cost of vision correction, but they rarely stop to consider what not getting it is costing them. If you’re wearing glasses or contact lenses, those monthly and yearly expenses quietly pile up, fast.

Let’s take a closer look at how much your vision correction costs over the long haul and why LASIK or SMILE may be the smarter financial decision.

Glasses Aren’t as Cheap as You Think

Most people replace their glasses every 1 to 2 years. With insurance, you’ll still pay around $200 per pair, and without it, that number jumps to $350 or more. For our breakdown we’ll assume a new pair of glasses every 2 years.

Over 15 years (age 25 to 40):

• With insurance: $200 × 7.5 = $1,500
• Without insurance: $350 × 7.5 = $2,625

Over 35 years (age 25 to 60):

• With insurance: $200 × 17.5 = $3,500
• Without insurance: $350 × 17.5 = $6,125

The Hidden Cost of Contact Lenses

Contact lenses seem cheap when you’re paying monthly but the long-term math tells a different story.

• Annual cost of daily lenses: $600–$900
• Add supplies (cleaners, cases, rewetting drops, etc.): $100/year

Over 15 years:

• Low estimate: ($600 + $100) × 15 = $10,500
• High estimate: ($900 + $100) × 15 = $15,000

Over 35 years:

• Low estimate: $10,500 × (35/15) = $24,500
• High estimate: $15,000 × (35/15) = $35,000

Total Cost of Vision Correction (Breakdown)

Correction Type	Over 15 Years (age 25 – 40)	Over 35 Years (age 25 – 60)
Glasses	$1,500 – $2,625	$3,500 – $6,125
Contacts	$10,500 – $15,000	$24,500 – $35,000
Total cost	$12,000 – $17,625	$28,000 – $41,000

LASIK: A One-Time Investment That Pays for Itself

While LASIK costs around $4,400 total (Source: Refractive Surgery Council), that one-time investment can eliminate or drastically reduce your lifetime dependence on glasses and contacts. In many cases, patients report recouping their costs in just 3 to 5 years.

And the benefits go far beyond money:

• No more monthly lens orders or cleaning
• Freedom when traveling, swimming, or exercising
• No fogged glasses, dry eyes, or broken frames
• No repeat purchases for 35 years

A Simple Truth: Vision Correction is Cheaper Than You Think

If you’re 25 years old and thinking about LASIK, ask yourself:

Would I rather pay $5,000 once, or $30,000 slowly, month by month, over my adult life?

The answer becomes pretty clear.

Use Our LASIK Savings Calculator

Want to see exactly how much you could save based on your current glasses and contact lenses costs? Try our LASIK Savings Calculator to see your personalized breakdown. Take the first step toward better vision and a better financial future.

Ready to Ditch the Costs of Lenses for Good?

Schedule your complimentary consultation to see if LASIK or SMILE is right for you. You’ll meet with Michigan’s most experienced vision correction team and get a personalized treatment plan, plus flexible payment options.