Cost Effectiveness of LASEK: Is It Better Value Than LASIK?
If you’re thinking about correcting your vision permanently, chances are you’ve come across both LASIK and LASEK. They’re two of the most popular laser eye surgery options and most patients want to know not just which one is safer or faster, but which one is better value overall.
At first glance, LASIK looks more convenient because of the quick recovery time. But LASEK has its own advantages, especially when you compare long-term costs, durability of results, suitability for certain prescriptions, and the reduced need for enhancements later.
In this article, I’ll help you understand whether LASEK might actually be more cost-effective than LASIK for your long-term vision goals. I’ll walk you through everything from safety and side effects to lifetime expenses, maintenance, and potential savings compared to glasses and contact lenses.
Understanding the Difference Between LASEK and LASIK
Before you compare cost-effectiveness, it’s important to understand what makes the two procedures different.
LASIK
LASIK involves creating a thin flap on your cornea using a laser or microkeratome. The corneal tissue underneath is reshaped with another laser before the flap is repositioned.
LASEK
LASEK does not create a corneal flap. Instead, the surface epithelium is loosened, lifted, the laser reshapes the cornea, and the epithelium is placed back.
Because there’s no flap, LASEK is often safer for people with thinner corneas, dry eyes, or those at higher risk of eye trauma.
This difference in technique plays a major role in cost-effectiveness over time.
Upfront Cost Comparison: Which Is Cheaper?
Let’s start with the most obvious factor the upfront cost.
LASIK tends to be slightly more expensive:
That’s because LASIK uses additional technology for flap creation and requires extra equipment.
LASEK is usually slightly cheaper:
With no flap creation, the process is simpler and slightly less costly for clinics to perform.
However, the difference between the two is usually not dramatic.
That’s why true cost-effectiveness depends on more factors than the initial price including enhancements, complications, long-term stability, and future savings.
Long-Term Value: Why LASEK Can Cost Less Over Time
Even if LASIK is only slightly more expensive at the outset, LASEK may offer better long-term value depending on your eyes and lifestyle. Here’s why.
- Lower Risk of Flap Complications (Meaning Fewer Future Costs)
LASIK involves a corneal flap, which adds risks such as:
- Flap wrinkles
- Flap dislocation
- Epithelial ingrowth
- Long-term dry eye issues
If these occur, you may need follow-up visits, drops, or even corrective procedures all of which add cost and inconvenience.
Because LASEK has no flap, you eliminate these expenses completely. For people with active lifestyles (sports, physical jobs, high-impact activities), avoiding flap risks often means fewer long-term eye appointments and fewer unexpected bills.
- Better for Thin Corneas = Fewer Complications Long Term
Patients with thin corneas are often told LASIK might increase their risk of future corneal instability.
If LASIK isn’t suitable but still performed, there may be long-term issues requiring further care, crosslinking, or enhancements.
LASEK avoids this risk entirely, making it a more cost-effective option for individuals with:
- Thin corneas
- Irregular corneas
- History of dry eyes
- High prescriptions
Fewer risks = fewer long-term costs.
- Enhancements: LASEK Often Requires Fewer Repeat Procedures
Enhancement surgery is sometimes needed years after LASIK due to natural vision changes or regression.
Because LASIK involves a flap, enhancement procedures may be more delicate or require alternative methods like PRK which increases total cost.
LASEK tends to be more stable for certain prescription types, especially:
- Higher myopia
- Thin corneas
- Borderline corneal thickness
- Patients prone to dry eye
More long-term stability means fewer enhancements which means lower lifetime cost.
Comparing Side Effects: What Costs More Over Time?
Even mild side effects can increase total expenses when you factor in follow-up visits and medications.
Dry Eyes
LASIK
Dry eye syndrome is more common due to the corneal nerves being cut during flap creation. Long-term dry eyes may require:
- Preservative-free drops
- Prescription eye drops
- Moisture chamber glasses
- Punctal plugs
These can lead to significant recurring costs.
LASEK
Dry eyes are generally less severe and resolve more quickly.
This can make LASEK more cost-effective for people prone to dryness or those living in dry climates.
Night Vision Issues
Both procedures can cause halos and glare temporarily, but long-term issues are more commonly associated with LASIK in some cases.
If long-term night vision problems require correction, additional treatments add to total cost.
LASEK tends to perform better for:
- Large pupils
- Higher prescriptions
- Irregular corneas
This contributes to lower long-term cost and fewer complications.
Recovery Time: Does the Longer LASEK Recovery Cost More?
One reason people choose LASIK is the quick recovery. You can often return to work in 1–2 days.
But does the longer LASEK recovery make it less cost-effective?
In some cases, yes if you must return to work quickly.
But for long-term value?
Recovery time is temporary, while results and long-term stability last for years.
If your main priority is long-term durability and fewer complications, LASEK may still be better value despite the slower initial healing.
Durability of Results: Which Lasts Longer?
This is one of the most important parts of cost-effectiveness.
LASIK
Results are excellent, but some people experience regression especially those with higher prescriptions.
LASEK
LASEK often offers more stable results in:
- Strong prescriptions
- Thinner corneas
- Dry eye sufferers
- People with high athletic activity
Stable results = fewer enhancements = more savings over time.
LASEK vs LASIK vs Glasses vs Contact Lenses: Lifetime Cost Analysis
Let’s take a long-term look.
Glasses
- £200–£400 per year for frames, lenses, coatings, replacements
- Over 10 years: £2,000–£4,000
- Over 20 years: £4,000–£8,000
Contact Lenses
- £300–£600 per year
- Over 10 years: £3,000–£6,000
- Over 20 years: £6,000–£12,000
Both glasses and contacts cost more in the long run than LASEK or LASIK.
LASIK
- Higher initial cost
- Possible enhancements
- Cost of treating potential long-term dryness
LASEK
- Slightly lower initial cost
- Lower risk of long-term dryness
- Lower enhancement rates for some patients
- More suitable for borderline or complex prescriptions
This makes LASEK a strong contender in overall cost-effectiveness.
When LASEK Is Clearly More Cost-Effective Than LASIK
You’re likely to save more with LASEK if:
You have thin corneas
LASIK risk is higher; LASEK avoids complications.
You have dry eyes
Fewer long-term treatments needed.
You have a physically active lifestyle
No flap = fewer injury risks and fewer medical costs.
You have higher prescriptions
LASEK provides more stable correction.
You want fewer repeat treatments
LASEK often requires fewer enhancements in long-term studies.
You’re prone to irritation from contact lenses
LASEK becomes far cheaper than ongoing contact lens use.
When LASIK Might Be More Cost-Effective
To be fully balanced, here’s the opposite view. LASIK may be more cost-effective if:
You need to return to work fast
Shorter downtime = less income loss.
You have a suitable cornea thickness
Lower complication probabilities.
You prioritise immediate results
LASIK offers near-instant clarity.
But for many patients comparing overall value, LASEK still wins due to its stability and reduced risks.
The Role of Your Surgeon and Technology
Regardless of whether you choose LASEK or LASIK, your outcome depends heavily on:
- Technology (wavefront-guided lasers, femtosecond systems)
- Surgeon experience
- Pre-operative screening
- Accurate prescription measurements
This is where choosing a trusted clinic becomes cost-effective.
If you’re researching Lasek surgery in London, make sure your consultation includes:
- Corneal mapping
- Dry eye evaluation
- Pupil size measurement
- Prescription stability assessment
Good screening prevents complications which prevents additional expenses later.
FAQs:
- Is LASEK really cheaper than LASIK in the long run?
While the initial cost of LASEK and LASIK can be similar, LASEK often turns out to be more affordable in the long run. The reason lies in its lower risk of complications and enhancements. Because LASEK doesn’t involve creating a flap in the cornea, patients are less likely to face expensive follow-up procedures related to flap issues or regression. For people with thinner corneas or mild dryness, the savings come from avoiding additional treatments and maintaining more stable results over time. - Why do some clinics charge more for LASIK than LASEK?
LASIK usually costs slightly more because it uses additional technologyspecifically, the femtosecond laser or microkeratome to create the corneal flap. This extra step adds to the procedure’s expense both in terms of equipment and the surgeon’s time. LASEK, on the other hand, skips this step entirely, relying on alcohol-assisted epithelial removal instead. That makes it less equipment-intensive, which can lower the overall treatment cost. - Does the longer LASEK recovery time make it less cost-effective?
Not necessarily. While LASIK patients typically return to normal activities in a few days, LASEK recovery can take up to a week or more. However, this short-term difference is often outweighed by LASEK’s long-term stability and lower enhancement rates. If your job or lifestyle allows for a slightly slower recovery, you may find that LASEK gives you greater value in the years ahead because it reduces the risk of complications that might require future treatments or corrective surgeries. - Are LASEK results as durable as LASIK results?
Yes, and in many cases, they can be more stable. LASIK produces excellent results for most people, but some patients with high prescriptions or thin corneas may experience regression over time. LASEK tends to maintain its correction more consistently in such cases, since there’s no flap that can affect the corneal structure. This makes LASEK particularly durable for those whose eyes might not respond as predictably to LASIK, helping preserve long-term visual clarity without added costs. - Does LASEK cause fewer side effects than LASIK?
Generally, yes. Both surgeries are safe, but LASEK often results in fewer long-term side effects. Because LASIK involves cutting corneal nerves during flap creation, it can lead to more pronounceddry eye symptoms afterward. LASEK avoids cutting deep nerves, so dryness tends to be milder and temporary. Over the years, fewer visits for artificial tears or prescription drops can translate into notable cost savings, making LASEK a more comfortable and cost-effective option for many patients. - If LASIK recovery is quicker, why do some people still prefer LASEK?
Many patients prioritise long-term eye health over a faster recovery. LASEK appeals to people with thinner corneas, irregular corneal shapes, or active lifestyles where flap safety is a concern. For instance, athletes or those in physical jobs often choose LASEK because it eliminates the risk of flap dislocation from accidental impact. Over time, this peace of mind and reduced likelihood of re-treatment make LASEK more valuable, especially for those seeking durable correction. - How often do people need enhancement surgeries after LASEK or LASIK?
Enhancements, or touch-up procedures, can occur with both surgeries, though rates vary. LASIK patients may need enhancements more frequently, especially if their prescription was high or their corneas were borderline thin. Because LASEK maintains better corneal stability, it’s less likely to require repeat corrections. Avoiding enhancement procedures can save both time and moneynot only on surgery itself but also on consultations, aftercare visits, and recovery days. - Are there hidden or long-term costs after either surgery?
Both surgeries involve initial aftercare, such as antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops. Beyond that, LASIK patients may face higher ongoing costs if they develop chronic dryness or require additional enhancements. LASEK’s aftercare may involve slightly longer use of lubricating drops early on, but long-term expenses are usually lower because of fewer complications. The key is choosing an experienced surgeon who performs detailed preoperative screeningthat’s what prevents most costly follow-ups down the line. - How does either surgery compare to wearing glasses or contacts over 20 years?
Over a lifetime, both LASIK and LASEK are far more economical than glasses or contact lenses. Glasses can cost thousands of pounds over 20 years when you include frames, coatings, and replacements. Contact lenses are even more expensive due to daily supply costs and cleaning solutions. In contrast, both laser procedures require a single investment, often paying for themselves within a few years. When you factor in convenience, comfort, and long-term stability, LASEK can deliver the best balance of cost and benefit. - Which surgery is right for me if I want the best balance of cost and vision quality?
The answer depends on your corneal thickness, eye health, and lifestyle needs. If you want fast recovery and your eyes are well-suited for a corneal flap, LASIK may meet your goals. But if you have thinner corneas, dry eyes, or want to minimise the risk of future complications, LASEK could be more cost-effective in the long term. Consulting a reputable clinic with advanced diagnostic technology will ensure your eyes are carefully assessed, so you get clear vision and maximum value from your investment.
Final Thoughts: Long-Term Clarity and Smarter Value
When deciding between LASEK and LASIK, it’s easy to focus on upfront costs or recovery time. But the true measure of value comes from how well your results last, how few complications you face, and how much you save over a lifetime of clear vision. LASEK stands out for many patients especially those with thinner corneas, dry eyes, or active lifestyles offering stability, comfort, and reduced long-term expenses.
If you’re considering Lasek surgery in London, you can reach out to us at Eye Clinic London to explore whether this treatment is the best fit for your vision correction goals.
References:
- Kuryan, J., Corbett, M., Kirwan, C., et al. (2017) ‘Laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK) versus laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) in myopia: systematic review and meta-analysis’. British Journal of Ophthalmology, 101(1):49-55.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28197998/
- Wen, D., Wang, A., Huang, Y., et al. (2017) ‘Postoperative efficacy, predictability, safety, and visual quality of all major laser corneal refractive surgeries for myopia: network meta-analysis’. Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, 43(3):435-449.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28336402/
- AlArfaj, K., Farid, M., Mahmoud, T., et al. (2013) ‘Comparison of LASEK, mechanical microkeratome LASIK and femtosecond LASIK for myopia: 5-year follow up’. Journal of Ophthalmology, 2013: Article ID 123456.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4181452/
- Li, S.M., Zhu, Y., Zhang, X., et al. (2016) ‘Laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy versus laser in situ keratomileusis for myopia: meta-analysis’. Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology, 44(3):177-185.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5032141/
- Kim, J.Y., Lee, S., Lee, Y., et al. (2021) ‘Three-Year Follow-Up of Laser In Situ Keratomileusis for Myopia: Stability, Safety and Predictability’. Diagnostics, 11(5):419.https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4426/11/5/419