Costs for Cataract Surgery: Does Insurance Cover It?

At Vance Thompson Vision, we believe even one day is too many to live with cloudy vision caused by cataracts. If blurry vision has led you to avoid activities you once enjoyed, it’s time to schedule a consultation with one of our world-class doctors.

We understand that cost may be keeping you from scheduling that much-needed consultation. It’s a very real concern and one that Vance Thompson Vision takes seriously. Our team is happy to answer all your questions!

While costs vary from person to person, many patients find that cataract surgery is more affordable than they expected. Even better, patients are also astounded by how well they can see after their surgery. Many didn’t realize how much vision they had lost until they saw the difference.

As long as your doctor determines it’s medically necessary, Medicare pays up to 80% of the cost for cataract removal when you select traditional surgery and a monofocal intraocular lens (IOL). (Cataract surgery requires removal of your natural lens and implantation of a new, clear one.) Likewise, private insurance usually covers a significant portion of the overall cost. It isn’t uncommon for insurance providers to have criteria for visual impairment that patients must meet before their surgery is approved.

At Vance Thompson Vision, we also offer advanced cataract surgery and premium lens options. Generally, insurance will still pay a portion of your surgery, but you will be responsible for additional fees associated with advanced diagnostics, specialized implants, and aftercare.

At your cataract consultation, our knowledgeable patient counselors will clearly outline what costs are submitted to and paid by insurance and which ones are your out-of-pocket costs. For both traditional and advanced cataract surgery, patients are responsible for covering their deductible and copays.

Another thing that’s helpful to know: ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), like Vance Thompson Vision, typically offer lower procedure costs than hospitals.

Cataract surgery is the most common surgery performed in the United States, and because it is, medical clinics have well-established procedures for submitting to insurance and billing for this procedure’s costs. Learn your options during your cataract consultation at Vance Thompson Vision. To schedule, call us at (605) 361‑EYES (3937) or fill out our contact form.