Does Medicare cover LASIK eye surgery?

Question

Jeremy Harkins · Accepted Answer

Generally, Original Medicare does not cover LASIK when it is being done to correct your vision and reduce your need for glasses or contacts.

LASIK is considered elective vision correction, so you would normally be responsible for the full cost.

That is different from medically necessary eye surgery. For example, Medicare Part B can cover cataract surgery, including cataract surgery performed with a laser, when Medicare's coverage requirements are met. Medicare can also cover one pair of standard eyeglasses or contact lenses after covered cataract surgery.

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, check its vision benefits. Some plans offer additional vision benefits or discounts that Original Medicare does not, but don't assume that means LASIK itself is covered.

So if you are considering LASIK, ask the provider for the total cash price and then check your specific Medicare Advantage plan, if you have one, to see whether it offers any discount or additional benefit.

Jordan Shanbrom · Answer

No, it does not cover elective medical procedures, and LASIK is not medically necessary. There are corrective surgeries that can be done after a medically necessary procedure, like Cataracts and Glaucoma, but other than that, Original Medicare does not cover vision products or elective surgeries.

Answered by Jordan Shanbrom on August 26, 2026

Broker Licensed in CA, FL & NV

Answered by Jordan Shanbrom Medicare Insurance Agent

Corey Bennett · Answer

No, Medicare doesn’t cover LASIK. It’s considered an elective procedure, not medically necessary, so Original Medicare and most Medicare Advantage plans won’t pay for it.

Mark Bilgere · Answer

Generally no. LASIK to just to get rid of glasses is not covered. LASIK used to treat a medical eye condition may be covered if it is medically necessary.

Alecia McMath · Answer

For medically needed surgery only. Medicare does not cover elective or cosmetic procedures. Certain eye exams and conditions of the eye are covered by Medicare.

Does Medicare cover LASIK eye surgery?

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Does Medicare cover LASIK eye surgery?

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