Is PRK cheaper than LASIK?

If you're exploring laser eye surgery, you’ve probably heard of both PRK and LASIK. They’re two of the most popular procedures for correcting vision. But many people ask:
Is PRK cheaper than LASIK?

In most cases, yes—PRK tends to cost slightly less. But price is just one part of the picture. In this blog, we’ll explain how PRK and LASIK differ in cost, why that is, and what factors really matter when deciding between the two.

First, what are PRK and LASIK?

• PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy): The outer layer of the cornea is gently removed before reshaping the surface with a laser. The eye then heals naturally over a few days.
• LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis): A thin flap is created on the cornea, the laser reshapes the tissue underneath, and the flap is placed back.

Both procedures reshape your cornea to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

How much does PRK cost compared to LASIK?

Costs can vary depending on location, technology, and surgeon experience, but here’s a general comparison:

• PRK: Usually around 5–15% less than LASIK
• LASIK: Slightly higher due to the added step of flap creation and some extra equipment involved

Why is PRK slightly cheaper?

There are a few reasons:

• PRK doesn’t require the femtosecond laser used to create the flap in LASIK.
• PRK is slightly less equipment-intensive.
• The procedure time is shorter in some cases.
• Some clinics reduce the price of PRK as it's viewed as more basic (though it’s not less effective).

But cheaper doesn’t mean lower quality

PRK and LASIK offer equally effective results for the right candidates. The difference in price is about the technique, not the outcome.

In fact, for people with thin corneas or certain eye conditions, PRK may actually be the safer and better option.

Are there any hidden costs with PRK?

Not usually—but PRK can require:

• More follow-up visits early on
• A few extra days off work (which may have financial impact)
• Longer use of lubricating drops

Still, these are minor differences, and most clinics include your aftercare in the total price.

Is it worth choosing LASIK even though it costs more?

That depends on your lifestyle and your eyes.

Choose LASIK if:

• You want faster recovery (most drive the next day)
• You meet all safety criteria (including flap thickness)
• You’re looking for immediate clarity with minimal downtime.

Choose PRK if:

• You have thin or irregular corneas
• You’re active in contact sports or work in risky environments (PRK has no flap, so there’s less chance of trauma)
• You don’t mind a longer recovery for the same outcome.

Financing and payment plans

Both PRK and LASIK are eligible for many clinic financing options. Some people opt for monthly payments to spread out the cost, making the price difference between them feel even smaller.

What matters more than cost? Safety and results.

It’s natural to think about cost when considering vision correction. But it’s more important to ask:

• Which procedure is safest for your eyes?
• Which will give you the best long-term results?
• Who’s doing the surgery—and how experienced are they?

Saving money is great—but not if it means compromising on your outcome or safety.

Thinking about PRK or LASIK? Not sure what suits you best?

Start by taking our free self-test. It’s quick and gives you a better idea of your options.