Laser Eye Surgery Cost UK 2026 LASIK, LASEK & SMILE Prices Compared
TL;DR
At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, we specialise in demystifying the UK private medical insurance landscape. In this guide, we'll explore the real costs of laser eye surgery and explain why it's a financial blind spot for most health insurance policies. Is getting 2020 vision affordable?
Key takeaways
- Initial Consultation & Assessment: A comprehensive eye exam to determine your suitability. Some clinics charge a separate fee for this (£100-£300), which may be deducted from the final surgery cost.
- The Procedure Itself: The surgeon's fees, use of the laser and facilities.
- Post-Operative Medication: A pack of eye drops (antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and lubricating drops).
- Aftercare Appointments: A series of check-ups in the days, weeks, and months following the surgery. This is critical for monitoring your healing.
- Enhancement Surgery: Many top-tier clinics offer a lifetime care guarantee, meaning if your vision regresses significantly in the future, a follow-up enhancement procedure is included free of charge.
At WeCovr, an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, we specialise in demystifying the UK private medical insurance landscape. In this guide, we'll explore the real costs of laser eye surgery and explain why it's a financial blind spot for most health insurance policies.
Is getting 2020 vision affordable? We break down the cost per eye (£1,200–£2,600) and explain why Health Insurance rarely covers laser correction
The dream of waking up with perfect vision, free from the daily ritual of finding glasses or putting in contact lenses, is a powerful one. For millions of Britons, laser eye surgery represents a path to that freedom. But with headline prices varying wildly, it's easy to wonder: is achieving 20/20 vision a realistic financial goal?
In short, yes—but it requires careful planning. The average cost for laser eye surgery in the UK for 2026 ranges from £1,200 to over £2,600 per eye. This price depends heavily on the type of procedure, the clinic's reputation, and the technology used.
A crucial point to understand from the outset is that standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) does not cover laser eye surgery. PMI is designed to cover the treatment of unforeseen, acute medical conditions. Because poor eyesight can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses, laser surgery is classified as an elective or cosmetic procedure, placing it outside the scope of standard health cover.
This guide will break down the costs, explain the different procedures, and clarify the role—or lack thereof—of health insurance in your journey to better vision.
Understanding Laser Eye Surgery: What Are Your Options?
Before diving into the costs, it’s essential to understand the main types of laser eye surgery available in the UK. The three leading procedures are LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE. Each uses advanced laser technology to reshape the cornea—the transparent front part of the eye—to correct refractive errors like short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism.
Your surgeon will recommend the best option for you based on your prescription, cornea thickness, and lifestyle.
Here’s a simple comparison of the three main types:
| Feature | LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) | LASEK (Laser-Assisted Sub-Epithelial Keratectomy) | SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Procedure | A thin flap is created on the cornea. A laser reshapes the tissue underneath, and the flap is repositioned. | The top layer of the cornea (epithelium) is softened and moved aside. A laser reshapes the tissue, and the layer is replaced. | A single laser creates a tiny lens-shaped disc (lenticule) inside the cornea, which is removed through a keyhole incision. |
| Recovery Time | Very fast. Most patients see clearly within 24-48 hours. | Slower. Vision can be blurry for a few days to a week. A "bandage" contact lens is worn for 3-4 days. | Very fast. Similar to LASIK, with many patients achieving good vision within a day. |
| Best For | People with stable prescriptions and healthy, thick corneas. | People with thin corneas, dry eyes, or those in contact sports, as there is no flap. | People with high degrees of short-sightedness and astigmatism. It is a minimally invasive, flapless procedure. |
| Discomfort | Minimal discomfort, often described as a slight pressure during the procedure. | More post-operative discomfort for the first few days compared to LASIK or SMILE. | Minimal discomfort, often less than LASIK due to the smaller incision. |
| Average Cost | Mid-range | Lower-range | Higher-range |
Insider Tip: Don't choose a procedure based on price alone. The most suitable and safest option is determined by your unique eye anatomy and prescription. A thorough consultation at a reputable clinic is non-negotiable.
Laser Eye Surgery Cost UK 2026: A Detailed Price Breakdown
The single most common question we hear is, "How much does laser eye surgery really cost?" The advertised price can sometimes be misleading. High-street chains might promote a low starting price, but this often only applies to very minor prescriptions.
For 2026, you should budget within the following ranges for a reputable UK clinic. Prices are typically quoted per eye.
| Procedure Type | Estimated Cost Per Eye (2026) | Total Estimated Cost (Both Eyes) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| LASEK / PRK | £1,200 – £1,900 | £2,400 – £3,800 | Often the most affordable option. The price depends on the technology used (e.g., wavefront). |
| LASIK | £1,800 – £2,400 | £3,600 – £4,800 | The most common procedure. Prices at the higher end usually include advanced wavefront and bladeless technology. |
| SMILE | £2,200 – £2,600+ | £4,400 – £5,200+ | The newest and most advanced technique, which is reflected in its premium price point. |
What's Included in the Price?
A reputable clinic's quoted price should be all-inclusive. Always confirm this in writing, but a standard package typically includes:
- Initial Consultation & Assessment: A comprehensive eye exam to determine your suitability. Some clinics charge a separate fee for this (£100-£300), which may be deducted from the final surgery cost.
- The Procedure Itself: The surgeon's fees, use of the laser and facilities.
- Post-Operative Medication: A pack of eye drops (antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and lubricating drops).
- Aftercare Appointments: A series of check-ups in the days, weeks, and months following the surgery. This is critical for monitoring your healing.
- Enhancement Surgery: Many top-tier clinics offer a lifetime care guarantee, meaning if your vision regresses significantly in the future, a follow-up enhancement procedure is included free of charge.
Client Mistake to Avoid: Be wary of clinics that advertise an exceptionally low price like "from £595 per eye." This is often a lead-in price for the lowest possible prescriptions and may not include advanced technology or comprehensive aftercare. Always get a final, personalised quote.
What Factors Influence the Cost of Laser Eye Surgery?
The final bill for your procedure isn't arbitrary. Several key factors contribute to the price you'll pay. Understanding them helps you compare quotes more effectively.
- Type of Procedure: As shown in the table above, SMILE is generally the most expensive due to the advanced technology involved, while LASEK is often the most budget-friendly.
- Technology Used: The specific laser technology makes a big difference.
- Wavefront Technology: Creates a detailed 3D map of your eye, allowing for a highly personalised treatment that can improve night vision and reduce glare. This is often standard at good clinics but adds to the cost.
- Femtosecond (Bladeless) Laser: Used in modern LASIK to create the corneal flap with a laser instead of a microkeratome blade. It's more precise and considered safer, but also more expensive.
- Surgeon's Expertise: The fee for a highly experienced surgeon with a track record of thousands of successful procedures will be higher than for a less experienced one. You are paying for expertise and safety.
- Clinic Location & Reputation: A prestigious clinic on London's Harley Street will inevitably have higher overheads and charge more than a regional clinic. However, high prices don't always guarantee better results, so research is key.
- Your Prescription: Some clinics charge a premium for very high or complex prescriptions (e.g., high levels of astigmatism), as these require more sophisticated treatment planning.
- Level of Aftercare: The best clinics include comprehensive aftercare for at least one year, and sometimes a lifetime guarantee. Budget clinics may charge extra for follow-up appointments.
Why Doesn't My Private Health Insurance Cover Laser Eye Surgery?
This is a fundamental point of confusion for many consumers. People assume that because poor vision is a health issue, their health insurance will help. However, in the world of UK private medical insurance, this is not the case.
The core reason is simple: Private Medical Insurance is for acute, unforeseen conditions.
- An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., a cataract operation, joint replacement, or cancer treatment).
- Laser eye surgery corrects a chronic condition—a long-term refractive error. Your eyesight issue is stable and can be managed perfectly well with glasses or contact lenses.
- Because a non-surgical solution exists and the condition is not life-threatening, insurers classify laser eye surgery as elective (a procedure you choose to have) or cosmetic (a procedure to improve appearance or convenience).
Standard PMI policies explicitly exclude elective and cosmetic treatments. They are designed to work alongside the NHS, providing faster access to treatment for medical necessities, not for lifestyle enhancements.
Think of it this way: your PMI policy will cover the cost of removing your appendix if you get appendicitis (an acute emergency). It will not cover the cost of a nose job you've always wanted (a cosmetic choice). Laser eye surgery falls firmly into the second category from an insurer's perspective.
As expert PMI brokers, we at WeCovr always stress this point to our clients. Understanding what your policy doesn't cover is just as important as knowing what it does.
Are There Any Exceptions for Health Insurance Coverage?
For 99% of standard UK policies, the answer is a firm no.
However, there are a few niche scenarios where some form of contribution might be possible, though you should never rely on this:
- Corporate Health Cash Plans: Some employers offer health cash plans (which are different from PMI) that provide a small annual allowance for optical expenses. You might be able to claim back £100-£200 towards the cost, but this is a drop in the ocean.
- High-End International PMI: A handful of premium international policies designed for expatriates or senior executives may include a "wellness benefit" that can be used for a variety of treatments, potentially including laser eye surgery. These policies are extremely expensive and not typical for the UK domestic market.
- Medical Necessity Following Injury: In an exceptionally rare case where an accident has damaged the eye in such a way that laser surgery is deemed the only medically necessary path to restore sight (and glasses are not an option), a claim might be considered. This is highly theoretical and not a standard pathway.
The bottom line remains: Do not buy a private health insurance policy with the expectation of it covering your laser eye surgery.
How to Make Laser Eye Surgery More Affordable
Since you'll be self-funding, making the cost manageable is key. Fortunately, most clinics understand this and offer flexible payment options.
- Clinic Finance Plans: This is the most popular option. Nearly all major clinics offer 0% finance deals, allowing you to spread the cost over 12, 24, or even 36 months.
- Real-Life Example: A total cost of £4,200 for Wavefront LASIK on both eyes.
- With a 24-month 0% finance plan, the monthly payment would be £175. This makes the procedure far more accessible than paying a lump sum.
- Personal Savings: If you can plan ahead, saving the funds in a high-interest savings account is the most cost-effective method, as you'll avoid any credit arrangements.
- Low-Interest Personal Loan or Credit Card: If the clinic's finance plan isn't suitable, you could explore a personal loan from your bank or a 0% purchase credit card. Be sure to compare interest rates carefully and ensure you can pay it off before the introductory period ends.
Choosing the Right Clinic: It's Not Just About Price
Your eyesight is precious. While cost is a factor, it should never be the deciding factor. A botched procedure can have devastating, lifelong consequences.
Use this checklist to vet any potential clinic:
- Surgeon Credentials: Is the surgeon listed on the GMC's (General Medical Council) specialist register for ophthalmology? How many procedures have they performed?
- CQC Rating: Check the clinic's rating with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of health and social care in England. Look for a 'Good' or 'Outstanding' rating.
- Technology: Do they use modern, proven technology like Wavefront and a Femtosecond laser?
- Transparent Pricing: Do they provide a clear, all-inclusive quote after your consultation?
- Comprehensive Aftercare: Does the price include all follow-up appointments for at least a year and an explicit policy on enhancement treatments?
- Patient Reviews: Look for independent reviews on platforms like Trustpilot or Google, but also ask the clinic if you can speak to a former patient.
WeCovr: Your Partner in Health & Financial Wellbeing
While private medical insurance won't pay for your laser eye surgery, it remains the single best way to protect yourself and your family from long NHS waiting lists for other serious medical conditions.
At WeCovr, we provide expert, impartial advice to help you find the right PMI policy for your needs and budget. A robust health insurance plan gives you peace of mind that should an acute illness or injury occur, you'll have fast access to the best private care.
When you become a WeCovr client, you also benefit from:
- Complimentary Access to CalorieHero: Our exclusive AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app to support your overall health goals.
- Multi-Policy Discounts: We can often provide discounts on other essential cover, such as life insurance, when you take out a PMI policy.
- Unrivalled Expertise: Our team helps you navigate the complexities of underwriting, policy exclusions, and claims, ensuring you have the right cover when you need it most.
Is laser eye surgery worth the cost in the UK?
Can I get laser eye surgery on the NHS?
What is the safest type of laser eye surgery?
How long does laser eye surgery last?
Take the Next Step Towards Peace of Mind
Investing in laser eye surgery is a decision for your lifestyle. Investing in private medical insurance is a decision for your life. While one gives you freedom from glasses, the other gives you freedom from worry about your health.
Contact WeCovr today for a free, no-obligation quote and let our expert advisers build a private health cover plan that protects you against the unexpected.
Related guides
Why private medical insurance and how does it work?
What is Private Medical Insurance?
Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.How does it work?
Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
• Mental health treatment
Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.
Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance
Just ask yourself:👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
👉 Would you prefer to choose your own consultant and hospital?
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👉 Do you want to avoid the stress of NHS waiting lists?
Many people don't realise that private medical insurance is more affordable than they think, especially when you consider the value of faster treatment and better facilities. A great insurance policy can provide peace of mind and ensure you receive the care you need when you need it.
Benefits offered by private medical insurance
Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.
Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.
Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.
Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.
Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.
Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.
Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.
Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.
Important Fact!
We can look at a more suitable option mid-term!
Why is it important to get private medical insurance early?
👉 Many people are very thankful that they had their private medical insurance cover in place before running into some serious health issues. Private medical insurance is as important as life insurance for protecting your family's finances.👉 We insure our cars, houses, and even our phones! Yet our health is the most precious thing we have.
Easily one of the most important insurance purchases an individual or family can make in their lifetime, the decision to buy private medical insurance can be made much simpler with the help of FCA-authorised advisers. They are the specialists who do the searching and analysis helping people choose between various types of private medical insurance policies available in the market, including different levels of cover and policy types most suitable to the client's individual circumstances.
It certainly won't do any harm if you speak with one of our experienced insurance experts who are passionate about advising people on financial matters related to private medical insurance and are keen to provide you with a free consultation.
You can discuss with them in detail what affordable private medical insurance plan for the necessary peace of mind they would recommend! WeCovr works with some of the best advisers in the market.
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