Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Cataract Surgery (Both Eyes) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Cataract Surgery (Both Eyes) | $7,000 – $10,000 | $500 – $2,000 |
| Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (Both Eyes) | $9,000 – $14,000 | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Premium Multifocal Lens (Both Eyes) | $8,000 – $16,000 | $2,000 – $5,000 |
CPT/ADA Code: 66984
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Medically necessary — covered by Medicare and most plans; premium lens upgrades may cost extra
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Cataract surgery for both eyes costs $7,000 to $14,000 without insurance. Laser-assisted surgery and premium lenses increase the cost.
Medicare covers standard cataract surgery after deductible and coinsurance. Patients pay extra for laser-assisted procedures and premium lens implants.
Typically not. Eyes are done 1-4 weeks apart to allow the first eye to heal and to reduce risk of bilateral complications.