Why 'from' prices mislead
The lowest price is for the simplest eyes. At some clinics fewer than a quarter of eyes assessed qualify for it. Your price depends on your prescription and the treatment, and you only learn it after the assessment.
Where saving is fine
- A standard treatment instead of a premium laser, if the surgeon says it suits your eyes.
- Surface treatment instead of LASIK, if you can take the slower first week.
- An insurer's member discount, if the clinic is one you would choose anyway.
- Claiming the 20% tax relief.
What never to cut
- A full assessment: corneal thickness and shape, tears, pupils and the back of the eye.
- Meeting the surgeon who operates before the day.
- Aftercare you can reach: check-ups to a year and a number to call at night.
- Check the surgeon's name on the Medical Council's register before you pay a deposit: an eye surgeon practising as a specialist should be on its Specialist Division, in ophthalmology.
Red flags
- Pressure to book or pay on the day.
- A price that changes once you are in the chair.
- No clear answer on top-ups.
- No surgeon at the assessment, and no chance to meet one before the day.
Questions people ask
Is cheap laser eye surgery safe?
It can be, if the assessment, the surgeon and the aftercare are the same. A low price for low prescriptions isn't a warning sign in itself.
Why is laser eye surgery cheaper abroad?
Lower costs, and the price often leaves out the check-ups you need at home over the following year.
Do cheaper clinics use older lasers?
Ask which laser and which treatment you are being quoted for. The surgeon's experience matters as much as the machine.
More on prices
Cost in IrelandLASIK in IrelandPrice per eye or both eyesWhat's includedHealth insuranceTax reliefFinanceIs it worth it?ICL and lens replacement cost