Laser Eye Surgery (LASIK)
WeCovr explains LASIK, benefits, risks, and whether PMI covers the procedure
Considering laser eye surgery to ditch your glasses or contact lenses? You're not alone. As FCA-authorised experts at WeCovr, who have helped arrange over 800,000 policies, we frequently receive questions about this popular procedure and whether private medical insurance in the UK covers it. This guide explains everything you need to know.
Laser eye surgery, most commonly known by the acronym LASIK, has transformed the lives of millions by offering a long-term solution to common vision problems. But navigating the world of consultations, costs, and insurance can feel as blurry as your vision without your specs.
In this comprehensive article, we'll demystify the procedure, explore its remarkable benefits and potential risks, and tackle the crucial question of private health cover.
What is Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser eye surgery is a type of refractive surgery. In simple terms, it's a medical procedure that uses a highly specialised laser to permanently change the shape of the cornea—the transparent front part of your eye.
Why change its shape? Your cornea's job is to bend (or refract) light rays so they focus perfectly on your retina at the back of your eye, creating a sharp, clear image. When your cornea is misshapen, light doesn't focus correctly, resulting in a "refractive error."
The most common refractive errors that laser eye surgery can correct are:
- Myopia (Short-sightedness): You can see nearby objects clearly, but distant objects appear blurry. This happens when the eyeball is slightly too long or the cornea is too curved.
- Hyperopia (Long-sightedness): You can see distant objects clearly, but nearby objects are out of focus. This is caused by a shorter eyeball or a cornea that's too flat.
- Astigmatism: Your vision is blurry at all distances because your cornea is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football. This irregular shape causes light to focus on multiple points instead of just one.
By precisely reshaping the cornea, the laser allows light to focus correctly on the retina, delivering clear vision, often without the need for glasses or contact lenses.
How Does LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) Work?
While there are several types of laser eye surgery, LASIK is the most well-known and widely performed. It's a remarkably quick and sophisticated procedure, usually taking less than 15 minutes per eye.
Here's a simplified, step-by-step look at the process:
- Numbing and Preparation: Your eyes are numbed with anaesthetic drops, so you won't feel any pain. An instrument called a lid speculum is used to gently hold your eyelids open to prevent you from blinking.
- Creating the Flap: The surgeon uses either a micro-precision blade (microkeratome) or a femtosecond laser to create a tiny, thin, hinged flap in the outer layer of your cornea. This flap is then carefully lifted.
- Reshaping the Cornea: An excimer laser, which is a cool ultraviolet laser, is then used to remove a microscopic amount of corneal tissue from the layer underneath the flap. This is the reshaping part. The laser is guided by a computer that has been meticulously programmed with the exact measurements of your eye. You'll be asked to focus on a target light to keep your eye still.
- Repositioning the Flap: Once the cornea is reshaped, the surgeon gently places the flap back into its original position. It acts like a natural bandage, adhering to the underlying tissue within minutes without the need for stitches.
- Healing Begins: The healing process starts almost immediately. You'll be given protective eye shields and sent home to rest.
The entire process is swift, and most patients notice a dramatic improvement in their vision within 24 hours.
Who is a Good Candidate for Laser Eye Surgery?
Laser eye surgery is not suitable for everyone. Reputable clinics will conduct a thorough consultation and screening process to ensure you are a good candidate. This is vital for both safety and achieving the best possible outcome.
Here are the general criteria for eligibility:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old, and ideally over 21. This is because your eye prescription can continue to change into your early twenties.
- Stable Prescription: Your glasses or contact lens prescription should have been stable for at least one to two years. If your vision is still changing, the results of the surgery won't last.
- Good General Health: Certain autoimmune conditions (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis) or conditions that impair healing (like uncontrolled diabetes) may disqualify you.
- Good Eye Health: You must not have any active eye conditions such as severe dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, cataracts, keratoconus (a thinning cornea), or infections.
- Corneal Thickness: Your cornea needs to be thick enough to allow for the creation of the flap and the removal of tissue. This is one of the most important measurements taken during your consultation.
- Not Pregnant or Breastfeeding: Hormonal changes during pregnancy and nursing can affect your vision prescription and the healing process. Surgeons typically advise waiting at least three to six months after you've finished breastfeeding.
People Who May Not Be Suitable
- Those with very high prescriptions.
- Individuals with very large pupils, which can increase the risk of night-time visual disturbances like halos or starbursts.
- People in certain professions or sports where there's a high risk of direct impact to the eye.
The Benefits of Laser Eye Surgery
For the right candidate, the advantages of laser eye surgery can be genuinely life-changing.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Freedom from Glasses & Lenses | The most obvious benefit. No more fumbling for glasses, dealing with foggy lenses, or the daily hassle of contacts. |
| Improved Lifestyle | Activities like swimming, playing sports, and travelling become much simpler and more enjoyable. |
| Long-Term Cost Savings | While the initial cost is significant, it can be cheaper in the long run than a lifetime of prescription glasses, contact lenses, and solutions. |
| Fast Results & Recovery | Most patients experience a dramatic improvement in vision within 24-48 hours and can return to most normal activities quickly. |
| High Success and Satisfaction Rate | According to the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, more than 95% of patients are satisfied with the outcome of their treatment. |
| Enhanced Confidence & Convenience | Many people report feeling more confident in their appearance and love the convenience of waking up with clear sight. |
Real-Life Example: Imagine Sarah, a 28-year-old marketing manager and keen cyclist. For years, she struggled with contact lenses drying out on long rides and her glasses slipping or getting splattered in the rain. After LASIK, she can cycle freely, enjoying the scenery with perfect clarity, without any of the old frustrations.
Understanding the Risks and Side Effects of LASIK
No surgical procedure is entirely without risk. While laser eye surgery is considered very safe and complications are rare, it's crucial to be aware of the potential side effects. Most of these are temporary and resolve within a few weeks or months.
Common, Temporary Side Effects:
- Dry Eyes: This is the most common side effect. Your eyes may feel dry, gritty, or itchy for several weeks or months as they heal. Lubricating eye drops are prescribed to manage this.
- Visual Disturbances: You may experience halos, glare, starbursts, or double vision, particularly at night. This usually improves as your eyes heal.
- Discomfort or Mild Pain: Some initial discomfort, burning, or a feeling like something is in your eye is normal for the first few hours after surgery.
- Fluctuating Vision: Your vision may be slightly blurry or fluctuate for the first few weeks.
Rarer, More Serious Risks:
- Infection or Inflammation: Extremely rare (estimated at less than 1 in 5,000 cases), but can be serious if it occurs. Following post-operative care instructions meticulously minimises this risk.
- Flap Complications: Issues with the corneal flap, such as it not healing correctly or developing microscopic wrinkles, are uncommon but may require further treatment.
- Under- or Over-correction: The laser may remove slightly too little or too much tissue, meaning you might still need glasses or contacts, though likely with a much weaker prescription. An enhancement (follow-up) procedure can often correct this.
- Ectasia: A very rare but serious complication where the cornea becomes unstable and bulges forward, causing vision to worsen. Thorough pre-operative screening is designed to identify patients at risk of this.
Types of Laser Eye Surgery Available in the UK
LASIK isn't the only option. Technology has advanced, and several techniques are now available, each suited to different eyes and needs.
Here is a comparison of the most common procedures offered in the UK:
| Procedure | How it Works | Best For | Recovery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| LASIK | A flap is created in the cornea, tissue is removed underneath, and the flap is replaced. | Most common refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism). | Very fast visual recovery (1-2 days). Minimal discomfort. |
| LASEK / PRK | The very thin top layer of the cornea (epithelium) is softened and moved aside. The laser then reshapes the cornea's surface. A "bandage" contact lens is worn for a few days to aid healing. | People with thinner corneas, or those in contact sports. | Slower recovery (4-7 days). More initial discomfort than LASIK. |
| SMILE | A femtosecond laser creates a tiny, lens-shaped piece of tissue (lenticule) inside the cornea. This is then removed through a very small incision. | Primarily for myopia and astigmatism. Considered less invasive. | Fast recovery, similar to LASIK. May reduce the risk of dry eye. |
| Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL) | Not a laser procedure, but an alternative. A biocompatible lens is permanently inserted into the eye. | People with very high prescriptions or thin corneas who are not suitable for laser surgery. | Fast recovery. The procedure is reversible. |
A good surgeon will recommend the best procedure for you based on your unique eye anatomy, prescription, and lifestyle.
The Cost of LASIK in the UK
The cost of laser eye surgery in the UK is a significant consideration. Prices can vary widely depending on the clinic, the surgeon's experience, the technology used, and the specific procedure you have.
As of 2025, you can expect to pay between £1,500 and £3,500 per eye.
| Price Tier | Estimated Cost Per Eye | What it Typically Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget / High-Street | £1,500 - £2,000 | Often uses older technology. May have extra fees for consultations or aftercare. |
| Mid-Range | £2,000 - £2,800 | Includes latest technology (e.g., bladeless LASIK), comprehensive aftercare, and potentially a lifetime care guarantee. |
| Premium / Specialist | £2,800 - £3,500+ | Treatment with a highly renowned surgeon, advanced custom wavefront technology, and extensive aftercare packages. |
Important: Be cautious of clinics advertising exceptionally low prices (e.g., "from £595 per eye"). These often apply only to very low prescriptions and may not include the initial consultation, advanced technology, or comprehensive aftercare, which are added on later.
A reputable clinic's price should be transparent and all-inclusive, covering:
- The initial consultation and suitability assessment.
- The procedure itself using the latest technology.
- All post-operative check-ups.
- Any necessary medications (like eye drops).
- An aftercare helpline.
- Any potential enhancement procedures needed later on.
The Big Question: Does Private Medical Insurance Cover Laser Eye Surgery?
This is the key question for many people considering the procedure. The answer, in almost all cases, is no.
Standard UK private medical insurance (PMI) does not cover elective laser eye surgery.
This often comes as a surprise to policyholders. People assume that because it's a medical procedure performed by a surgeon, their health insurance will contribute. However, the UK insurance market has a very clear definition of what it's designed for.
Why Isn't LASIK Covered by Standard PMI?
Understanding the core purpose of private health cover is key. PMI is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of acute medical conditions that arise unexpectedly after you've taken out your policy.
- Acute Condition: A disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery (e.g., appendicitis, a hernia, a joint replacement for arthritis).
- Chronic Condition: A condition that is long-lasting and cannot be cured, only managed (e.g., diabetes, asthma). PMI typically does not cover the long-term management of chronic conditions.
- Elective Procedure: A procedure that you choose to have to improve your lifestyle or appearance, rather than one that is medically necessary to treat an acute illness.
Laser eye surgery falls squarely into the elective category. While poor eyesight is a medical condition, it can be corrected perfectly well and safely with glasses or contact lenses. Choosing surgery is a lifestyle choice to improve convenience, not a medical necessity to restore health.
Including cover for common elective procedures like LASIK would significantly increase the cost of premiums for everyone, making private medical insurance UK unaffordable for many.
Critical Constraint: Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions
It's vital to remember that all standard UK PMI policies exclude cover for pre-existing conditions (ailments you had before taking out the policy) and chronic conditions. Short-sightedness or astigmatism is a long-term condition you have before seeking surgery, which is another reason it falls outside the scope of standard cover.
Are There Any Exceptions?
While standard cover is a clear "no," there are a few niche scenarios or alternative products where some contribution might be possible:
- High-End, Bespoke Policies: A very small number of top-tier, international, or corporate PMI policies might offer a minor optical benefit, but this is extremely rare for the UK consumer market and the limit would likely only cover a fraction of the cost.
- Health Cash Plans: These are not insurance policies but are often sold alongside them. A health cash plan requires you to pay a monthly premium, and in return, you can claim back a set amount of cash each year for routine healthcare costs. Many plans have an "optical" benefit that can be used for sight tests, glasses, or contacts. Some may allow you to put this cash benefit (e.g., £150-£250 per year) towards the cost of laser eye surgery. It won't cover the procedure, but it can be a small contribution.
- Treatment After an Accident or Illness: In the highly unlikely event that you needed vision-correcting surgery as a direct result of an accident or an illness that is covered by your PMI policy, there could be grounds for cover. This is a very specific and unusual circumstance.
If you're unsure, a specialist PMI broker like WeCovr can help you scrutinise the small print of any policy to understand exactly what is and isn't included.
How WeCovr Can Help with Your Broader Health Needs
While your PMI policy won't pay for your LASIK, it is an incredibly valuable safety net for your overall health. It provides peace of mind that should you develop an unexpected acute condition, you can get fast access to diagnosis and private treatment.
At WeCovr, we help our clients find the best PMI provider for their budget and needs, ensuring they have robust protection for the things that matter most, like:
- Fast access to specialist consultations.
- Advanced cancer care and drugs not always available on the NHS.
- A choice of leading private hospitals.
- Mental health support.
Furthermore, clients who purchase private medical or life insurance through us receive complimentary access to our AI-powered nutrition app, CalorieHero, to support their wellness goals. We also offer discounts on other types of insurance, providing holistic protection for you and your family.
Choosing the Right Clinic and Surgeon in the UK
Your eyesight is precious, so choosing the right provider is the most important decision you'll make. Don't let cost be your only guide.
Here's what to look for:
- Surgeon's Qualifications & Experience: Ensure your surgeon is a consultant ophthalmologist on the General Medical Council's (GMC) specialist register. Ask how many procedures they have performed.
- CQC Registration: In England, all independent clinics and hospitals must be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). You can check their rating online.
- Technology: Ask what type of laser technology they use. Look for clinics that invest in the latest, proven equipment, such as femtosecond lasers for flap creation and wavefront-guided technology for personalised treatment.
- Thorough Consultation: A good clinic will spend significant time on your initial consultation, performing multiple tests and scans. They should be happy to answer all your questions and should never pressure you into making a decision.
- Transparent Pricing & Aftercare: Ensure the price is all-inclusive and that the aftercare package is comprehensive. What happens if you need an enhancement procedure? Is it included in the cost?
Lifestyle and Wellness After LASIK
Once your eyes have healed, maintaining their health is crucial for preserving your new-found vision for decades to come.
- Protect from UV Rays: Always wear high-quality sunglasses that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. This helps reduce the risk of developing cataracts and other eye conditions later in life.
- Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: When working on screens, take a break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps to reduce digital eye strain.
- Eat for Your Eyes: A diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants can support eye health. Include plenty of leafy greens (like spinach and kale), oily fish (like salmon and mackerel), citrus fruits, nuts, and eggs.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dehydration, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
- Regular Eye Check-ups: Continue to have routine eye health examinations every one to two years, even if your vision is perfect. These check-ups are not just about your prescription; they are vital for detecting early signs of eye diseases like glaucoma or macular degeneration.
FAQs about Laser Eye Surgery and Private Medical Insurance
Is laser eye surgery covered by private medical insurance in the UK?
If I've had laser eye surgery, do I need to declare it when applying for PMI?
Are there any special insurance plans that do cover LASIK?
Does the NHS ever pay for laser eye surgery?
Ready to secure your health with a robust insurance plan, even if it doesn't cover LASIK? Protecting yourself against unexpected health issues is one of the smartest investments you can make.
Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our expert advisors will compare leading UK insurers to find the perfect private health cover for your needs and budget.
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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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.
By tapping the button below, you can book a free call with them in less than 30 seconds right now:
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