Financing Case Studies: How Real Patients Paid for LASIK

Not financial advice. Terms vary by lender and clinic. Run your own numbers.

At a glance

• Typical costs: varies by clinic, market, and technology; quotes are often per eye.
• Common tools: 0% promotional plans, credit union loans, HSA/FSA dollars, and cash discounts.
• Key variable: what is included (pre‑op, aftercare, enhancement policy). Clarify before you finance.

Case studies (illustrative)

1. The 0% promo planner

• Uses a clinic‑partner promo (e.g., 0% for 12–24 months). Pays equal monthly installments.
• Works best when the promo period fully covers payoff to avoid retroactive interest.

2. The HSA maximizer

• Schedules surgery after funding an HSA through payroll; uses pre‑tax dollars to reduce effective cost.
• If timing is flexible, staggers one eye in December and one in January is not necessary for LASIK but can align with contribution cycles for other expenses.

3. The credit‑union borrower

• Secures a personal loan at a fixed APR from a local credit union; predictable payments over 24–36 months.
• May beat general‑purpose credit cards on rate; no clinic restrictions.

4. The saver + FSA combo

• Contributes to an FSA during open enrollment and sets aside additional cash in a high‑yield account.
• Uses FSA for part of the cost and pays the remainder from savings at surgery time.

Quick math examples

• 0% for 24 months on a $4,000 total → about $167/month; interest cost $0 if paid on time.
• 9% APR personal loan for $4,000 over 36 months → monthly ≈ $127; interest ≈ $560 total.
• 24% credit card over 24 months (no promo) → costly; usually avoid unless paid off quickly.

Comparing financing offers

• APR and fees: look for origination fees, deferred interest, and penalties.
• Flexibility: can you prepay without penalty if you get a bonus or tax refund?
• Total cost: compare monthly payment and total interest paid across options.
• Clinic fit: make sure provider and technology you want participate in the financing you choose.

What to verify in your quote

• Pre‑op testing, all follow‑ups, and duration of enhancement policy (and eligibility criteria)
• Medications included or separate; drop costs can vary
• Any add‑ons (e.g., upgraded guidance modes) and whether they materially improve your odds

Takeaways

Financing can spread payments without compromising on surgeon or technology when used carefully. Favor transparent terms, pre‑tax dollars when available, and quotes that bundle aftercare and a clear enhancement policy.