Is free laser eye surgery possible?

If you're considering LASIK but worried about the cost, you might be asking:
“Is free laser eye surgery even possible?”

It’s a fair question. With prices for LASIK ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 per eye in most reputable clinics, the idea of getting it done for free is understandably appealing.

In this blog, we’ll explain when (and if) free laser eye surgery might be available, explore what "free" really means, and help you understand the safest and smartest ways to make the procedure affordable.

What does “free laser eye surgery” usually mean?

Let’s be honest: laser eye surgery isn’t free to perform. It involves:

• High-tech equipment
• Skilled surgeons
• Pre-op testing and post-op care

If someone’s offering it for “free,” it’s important to look closely at what that actually includes—and what it doesn’t.

1. Promotions and giveaways

Some practices or laser eye surgery chains occasionally run promotional giveaways—like contests or raffles—where a limited number of people can win free LASIK.

But:

• These are rare
• They’re not guaranteed
• There are often strict eligibility criteria

You may need to attend a consultation and be medically suitable for the procedure to qualify.

2. Clinical trials

In limited cases, you may be able to receive free or reduced-cost laser eye surgery by participating in a clinical trial for new laser technology.

But clinical trials come with conditions:

• You must qualify medically
• You may need to commit to extra follow-ups
• You may be receiving a new or not-yet-FDA-approved treatment

These programs are also hard to find and highly selective.

3. Insurance coverage (very rare)

Most health insurance providers in the U.S. classify LASIK as an elective or cosmetic procedure. That means:

• It’s not covered under standard health insurance
• It’s not available through Medicare or Medicaid

The only exceptions might be if LASIK is deemed medically necessary due to trauma or injury—not because you want to stop wearing glasses or contacts.

4. Military or workplace benefits

If you’re in the military, police force, or another specialized profession, there may be vision programs that cover part or all of your laser eye surgery.

However:

• Eligibility varies
• You must meet job-related visual standards
• This is usually offered through military or VA facilities—not private clinics

So… is free LASIK possible?

Technically, yes—in rare cases. But for most people, it’s not something to count on.

If you see “free LASIK” advertised online or on social media, read the fine print. It’s often a marketing tool used to draw people in for a consultation, where the final price ends up being far from free.

What you can get: affordable LASIK with financing

At Elite LASIK & Cataract in Indianapolis, we believe great vision should be accessible—without cutting corners or compromising safety.

That’s why we offer:

• All-inclusive pricing with no hidden fees
• Interest-free financing for up to 24 months
• The LASIK Lifetime Plan, which includes future enhancements if needed

This way, you get premium care, experienced surgeons, and full aftercare—without the surprise costs.

Your vision is worth the investment

Laser eye surgery is life-changing—and for many people, it ends up paying for itself over time.

• The average person spends hundreds every year on glasses, contacts, and solutions
• Over 10 years, that adds up to thousands of dollars

When you look at it this way, laser vision correction is an investment in clarity, convenience, and long-term savings.

Next step: find out if you’re a candidate

Before you think about cost, it’s important to know whether laser eye surgery is even right for your eyes.

Take our quick suitability self-test to get started. It takes less than a minute and gives you personalized insight into whether LASIK is a good fit for you.