Cost of Multifocal Lens Implants

Question: I have been quoted a price of $2,000 per lens for the ReSTOR® product. I like the doctor and feel that I am in good hands. What I would like to know is whether the $4,000 cost is a typical rate or if I should get a second consultation. I can not figure out a way to "comparative shop."

Answer: The single most important decision you can make in having Cataract Surgery is choosing the best Cataract Surgeon. This decision is priceless. Many patients seem to be confused today regarding what they are paying for when the decide to have a near vision presbyopia correcting lens implant. The fee if $2,000 or whatever the eye surgeon charges is NOT the cost of a "product". It is the cost of the extra testing-perhaps extra biometry, perhaps wavefront aberrometry, tear film evaluation and ruling out a predisposition to dry eye, perhaps topography, perhaps OCT if there is any concern about macular irregularities-then qualifying the patient as a multifocal lens implant candidate through consultation and the additional "chair time" required for follow up care. These are complex lens implants and require considerable additional testing to be sure patients are going to do well. Medicare and typical insurances do not cover this testing. Patients who engage in "price shopping" for lens implants are asking for trouble. They are asking for a surgeon to "cut corners" in their care. The cost of the lens itself-or the "product" is only one small piece of the cost of the service being provided in correcting presbyopia and near vision after Cataract Surgery. If the Cataract Surgeon didn't explain this carefully then they certainly should have-otherwise you have every right to believe that you are purchasing a product like a pair of shoes. That said, the typical fee for services and multifocal lens implants varies across the U.S. but is generally in the range of $1500-$3000 depending on region.

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