The cost of keratoconus treatment can be several thousand dollars or more. If you require a corneal transplant, this procedure alone can cost from $3,000 to nearly $7,000, depending on the type of surgery and whether it's performed on an outpatient basis or involves a hospital stay.
Also, the costs of comprehensive eye exams and contact lenses for keratoconus are recurring expenses year after year.
Fortunately, many costs associated with keratoconus are often covered by medical insurance. In particular, it may cover the majority of the cost of ”epithelial-off" corneal cross-linking or major keratoconus surgery (less deductibles and copays determined by your policy). “Epithelial-on” corneal cross-linking is generally not covered by medical insurance.
The cost of eye exams (or portions thereof) conducted specifically for the diagnosis and monitoring of keratoconus are often covered as well. The cost of contact lenses for keratoconus may or may not be fully covered, depending on your insurance policy.
If you don't have medical insurance and you aren't covered by Medicare or Medicaid, financing companies that specialize in medical expenses may offer plans where you can pay for costs associated with keratoconus treatment over time, sometimes with low-interest rates for qualified applicants.
If you are diagnosed with keratoconus, consult your eye doctor and insurance carrier so you understand your benefits and obligations regarding the cost of your keratoconus treatment.
