LASIK vs. Glasses and Contacts: Which Costs More in the Long Run?
When you think about LASIK, there is a good chance you have a lingering question: “How much does LASIK cost?”
It’s a fair question – especially when you’ve already been paying for glasses, contacts, and eye exams year after year. While LASIK has an upfront investment, it can actually save you money in the long run compared to the ongoing costs of corrective lenses.
At Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun in Knoxville, we’ve helped thousands of patients weigh the cost of LASIK against their current expenses. Let’s break it down.
The Cost of Glasses and Contacts Over Time
If you wear glasses or contacts, you know the expenses add up:
- Glasses: Prescription frames and lenses often run $200–$600+ per pair. Many people update them every 1–2 years.
- Contact lenses: Depending on brand and wear schedule, the average contact lens wearer spends $250–$750 per year, not including solution and supplies.
- Eye exams: Even with vision insurance, you’ll pay for regular exams to update prescriptions.
Over 10 years, that can add up to $3,000–$7,000 or more. Over 20 years? Easily $10,000+. And that doesn’t include extras like prescription sunglasses or specialty lenses.
The Cost of LASIK
LASIK is a one-time investment. Pricing depends on your prescription and eye health, but most patients find that:
- LASIK pays for itself in as little as 4–6 years compared to glasses and contacts.
- Financing options make LASIK affordable with monthly payments.
- You may be able to use FSA or HSA funds, which lowers out-of-pocket costs with pre-tax dollars.
Beyond Money: The Lifestyle Value of LASIK
It’s not just about the dollars. LASIK can save you from the daily hassle and hidden costs of glasses and contacts:
- No more worrying about lost contacts or broken frames.
- No more paying for backup glasses or travel-size lens solution.
- No more fogging lenses when you exercise, cook, or walk in the rain.
- Freedom to swim, hike, and just wake up and go.
Most patients say the convenience alone is priceless.
LASIK vs. Glasses & Contacts: Side-by-Side
| Expense | Glasses/Contacts | LASIK |
| Upfront Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Ongoing Cost | $250–$750+ per year | None (may need reading glasses with age) |
| Long-Term Cost (20 yrs) | $10,000+ | One-time investment |
| Lifestyle Freedom | Limited | High |
What About Future Vision Changes?
Even after LASIK, natural aging (like presbyopia or cataracts) can mean reading glasses later in life. But that’s true whether or not you ever had LASIK.
Financing LASIK in Knoxville
At Drs. Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor & Haun, we believe clear vision should be accessible. That’s why we offer:
- Financing plans with affordable monthly payments
- Guidance on using HSA or FSA funds
- A no-cost, no-obligation LASIK consultation to see if you qualify
Ready to Do the Math for Yourself?
Take our LASIK self-evaluation or request a free consultation with our Knoxville LASIK team today. We’ll review your vision, explain your options, and help you see how LASIK could pay for itself in more ways than one.
FAQs: LASIK vs. Glasses and Contacts
Is LASIK cheaper than glasses and contacts?
While LASIK costs more upfront, most patients save money within a few years by avoiding the ongoing costs of lenses, frames, and supplies.
Can I finance LASIK?
Yes. We offer financing through CareCredit®, and you can use HSA/FSA dollars for added savings.
Will I still need glasses after LASIK?
You may eventually need reading glasses after age 40 due to presbyopia. LASIK doesn’t prevent natural aging changes in the eye.
How much do people spend on contacts in 10 years?
The average contact lens wearer spends $3,000–$7,000 over a decade – often more if they also buy glasses or specialty lenses.