Out-of-Pocket Costs for Cataract Surgery with High Myopia

Q: Out-of-Pocket Costs for Cataract Surgery with High Myopia

Hello, Ajie： The other eye can undergo cataract surgery at your own expense. <br>The costs vary by hospital; if you opt for the artificial lens covered by health insurance, it may total around 30,000 to 40,000 TWD. <br>If you choose to pay for the artificial lens out of pocket, t

What is the out-of-pocket cost for cataract surgery?

Hello, I have high myopia (1200-1300 degrees) and about 10 years ago, I underwent laser surgery for retinal detachment with an unspecified lateral retinal tear.
During a routine follow-up eye examination last year, my doctor found that my right eye's myopia had significantly worsened, and both eyes showed signs of early-onset cataracts.
In the photos, the right eye has a yellowish area, while the left eye only shows a grayish area.

I would like to know if I can opt for cataract surgery out-of-pocket for my left eye, which has mild cataracts and still has a corrected vision of 0.9-1.0.
The doctor mentioned that performing cataract surgery on the right eye could lead to significant disparity between the two eyes, but did not clarify whether both eyes could undergo cataract surgery.
Additionally, what is the approximate cost for out-of-pocket surgery? Thank you for taking the time to respond.

A Jie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/28

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Ajie: The other eye can undergo cataract surgery at your own expense.
The costs vary by hospital; if you opt for the artificial lens covered by health insurance, it may total around 30,000 to 40,000 TWD.
If you choose to pay for the artificial lens out of pocket, there are many price options, so please consult the hospital where the surgery will be performed.
You can first have the surgery on the right eye and then decide whether to proceed with the left eye.
If you feel comfortable without surgery, there is no rush.
The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and on Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses are for reference only; it is necessary to visit a medical institution for treatment.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2019/06/28

More Info

Cataract surgery is a common procedure, especially for individuals with high myopia, such as yourself. Given your history of retinal issues and the recent diagnosis of early cataracts in both eyes, it’s essential to consider several factors regarding your surgery options, potential risks, and out-of-pocket costs.

1. Surgery Eligibility: You mentioned that your left eye has mild cataracts but still maintains good vision (0.9-1.0). In general, cataract surgery is recommended when cataracts significantly impair vision or quality of life. Since your left eye's vision is still acceptable, you might be advised to monitor it unless it worsens. However, if your right eye requires surgery due to significant cataract development, it is possible to proceed with that surgery first. Your doctor may suggest waiting on the left eye until the right eye's surgery is completed and your vision stabilizes to assess the need for surgery on the left eye.

2. Surgery Risks: With high myopia, there are additional considerations. High myopia can increase the risk of complications during cataract surgery, such as retinal detachment or other postoperative issues. Your previous history of retinal laser surgery may also play a role in the surgical approach and the type of lens implant used. It’s crucial to have a thorough discussion with your ophthalmologist about these risks and how they pertain to your specific case.

3. Cost of Surgery: The cost of cataract surgery can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of lens used (standard vs. premium lenses), the facility where the surgery is performed, and whether the procedure is done on an outpatient basis or requires hospitalization. In the United States, the average out-of-pocket cost for cataract surgery can range from $3,000 to $7,000 per eye for standard procedures. If you opt for premium lenses, which can correct astigmatism or presbyopia, the costs can increase significantly, potentially reaching $10,000 or more per eye. Since you mentioned that you do not have insurance coverage, it’s essential to discuss payment options and any financing plans that your surgical center may offer.

4. Postoperative Care: After cataract surgery, you will need follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure that your vision is improving as expected. This may involve additional costs, so it’s wise to factor these into your overall budget.

5. Decision-Making: Ultimately, the decision to proceed with surgery on one or both eyes should be made in consultation with your ophthalmologist. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your visual needs, the severity of your cataracts, and your overall eye health. It’s also advisable to seek a second opinion if you have concerns about the recommendations provided.

In conclusion, while cataract surgery can significantly improve vision, especially in cases of high myopia, careful consideration of timing, costs, and potential risks is essential. Make sure to have open discussions with your healthcare provider to ensure that you make informed decisions that align with your visual goals and health status.

Similar Q&A

Comprehensive Eye Exam: Concerns for High Myopia and Surgery Options

Hello, I am currently about 17.5 years old. I have been wearing soft contact lenses for nearly two and a half years, and during this time, I have not experienced any eye-related diseases. My prescription (for both eyes) is approximately -8.9 diopters (measured in August of last y...

Dr. Huang Bozhen reply Ophthalmology
Retinal detachment is most commonly seen in patients with myopia ranging from -500 to -800 diopters. You can go to any ophthalmology clinic for a dilated fundus examination. As long as your myopia has not increased for a year and you are at least 20 years old, you can undergo las...

Can Early Replacement of Intraocular Lenses Eliminate Glasses for High Myopia?

Dr. Gao, if individuals with high myopia can undergo early replacement of the intraocular lens, will they no longer need to wear glasses? I heard that it might require a certain amount of out-of-pocket expense.

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Jiajing: If the only reason for not wearing glasses is myopia, this surgery is not recommended. The out-of-pocket cost for the surgery ranges from tens of thousands to over a hundred thousand NT dollars. At the E-Hospital in Puzi, Taiwan, the ophthalmology department is ope...

Cost of Daily, Biweekly, and Extended Wear Contact Lenses for High Myopia

The cost of daily disposable contact lenses for a prescription of -7.00 diopters with -2.00 astigmatism typically ranges from $30 to $60 per month, depending on the brand and retailer. Bi-weekly lenses may cost around $40 to $80 per month. Extended wear lenses can range from $50 ...

Dr. Zhang Yanrui reply Ophthalmology
Hello, currently there are no daily disposable toric lenses available. The bi-weekly disposable lenses come in a pack of six for approximately 950 NTD, and the long-wear lenses are about 2000 NTD per pair. Thank you.

Cataract Surgery Options for Seniors with Hyperopia and Astigmatism

Hello Doctor: My father is in his seventies and has hyperopia of +100 and astigmatism of around 200 degrees. He is scheduled for cataract surgery. I have heard that for myopic patients who can only afford the lens materials covered by health insurance, they can use the method of ...

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology
Hello, is it possible to alleviate or delay the troubles of presbyopia through a specially designed surgical method without opting for out-of-pocket expenses? The single-focus intraocular lens covered by health insurance can only address either distance or near vision, but not bo...