Planning for cataract surgery starts with knowing the costs and insurance details.
What Influences the Cost of Cataract Surgery?
Here are the main elements that can impact how much you pay for cataract surgery:
- Surgeon Fees: Highly skilled surgeons often charge more due to their expertise and advanced techniques.
- Surgery Venue Fees: Charges can vary significantly between hospitals, clinics, and outpatient centers.
- Regional Pricing Differences: Your location plays a role, with urban centers generally charging more.
- Choice of Replacement Lens: Advanced lenses for specific vision needs come with additional costs.
On average, cataract surgery in the U.S. costs between $3,000 and $5,000 per eye without insurance.
Does Insurance Cover Cataract Surgery?
Patients often wonder about insurance coverage for cataract surgery. Fortunately, Medicare and most insurance policies include coverage for medically required cataract surgery.
- Medicare Benefits: Covers standard cataract surgery and basic lens implants but not premium options.
- Private Plan Coverage: Your private plan may cover the surgery but check for deductibles or co-pays.
Always verify your policy details and whether you need pre-approval.

Financing Options
For uncovered costs, explore these financing methods:
- Installment Options: Many clinics allow you to pay in installments, spreading out the cost.
- HSA Benefits: Pre-tax savings in HSAs can help cover the cost of cataract surgery.
- Discount Programs: Some providers offer discounts for paying upfront or scheduling multiple procedures.
- Special Medical Loans: Medical credit options can ease the financial burden of surgery.
Talk to your provider about these options to make the procedure affordable.