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Laser eye surgery in Germany: costs and financing options
Laser vision correction procedures – such as LASIK or PRK – have become a popular way to get rid of glasses and contact lenses. In Germany, however, these interventions are usually considered “elective treatments”, which means they are normally not covered by statutory health insurance (GKV).
Expected costs
Costs vary depending on the method, clinic and region:
Type of procedure – cost per eye
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LASIK: €900 – €1,800
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Femto-LASIK: €1,500 – €2,500
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PRK / LASEK: €1,000 – €1,800
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ReLEx SMILE: €2,000 – €2,800
For both eyes together, the total amount is usually between €2,000 and €5,000, depending on the technique and the centre.
Does statutory health insurance (GKV) cover these procedures?
Generally speaking: No.
Refractive errors such as myopia or hyperopia are seen as visual defects that can be corrected adequately with glasses or contact lenses. Therefore, laser eye surgery is not regarded as medically necessary but rather as a comfort or lifestyle treatment.
When might private health insurance (PKV) pay?
Some private health insurers (PKV) may reimburse the procedure partially or fully if certain conditions are met, for example:
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a written statement from an ophthalmologist confirming that glasses or contact lenses are not tolerated (allergies, intolerance, severe discomfort)
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explicit coverage of “laser/refractive surgery” in your insurance policy
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sometimes a minimum dioptre value as defined in the contract
Important:
Always obtain a written confirmation of cost coverage from your PKV before undergoing surgery.
Financing and instalment payment plans
Many laser centres offer flexible payment options, for example:
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instalment plans over 6–24 months (sometimes with 0% interest)
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third-party financing via partner banks or specialised providers
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special discounts for students or group bookings
Make sure you:
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read the financing contract carefully
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clarify whether follow-up visits and potential enhancement procedures are included.
Can the costs be deducted from tax?
In some cases, yes – at least partially.
If your doctor certifies that the intervention is medically indicated, the expenses may count as “extraordinary medical expenses” (außergewöhnliche Belastungen) in your tax return.
The actual tax benefit depends on:
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your income level
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your individual threshold for “reasonable own burden”
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and your total medical expenses in the same year.
Steps before surgery
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book an initial consultation at a certified laser centre (often free of charge or low-cost)
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undergo detailed eye examinations: corneal thickness, topography, tear film, refraction, etc.
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receive a professional assessment of your eligibility for laser surgery
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choose the most suitable technique and obtain a transparent cost estimate
Important notes
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Not everyone is a good candidate (e.g. uncontrolled diabetes, pregnancy, severe dry eye, certain corneal diseases).
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Results are not 100% guaranteed – some patients may need retreatment or fine-tuning.
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Discuss possible long-term side effects (night vision issues, glare, dry eyes) in detail with your surgeon.
Summary – who pays what?
Type of coverage – reimbursement
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GKV (statutory health insurance): normally no coverage – considered elective
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PKV (private health insurance): sometimes/partially – depends on your contract and medical justification
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Out of pocket: yes – often with instalment options
The editorial team of this website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and multiple sources. However, errors or incomplete details cannot be completely ruled out. The content of this article is therefore intended solely as initial guidance. For binding, up-to-date and case-specific information, please always consult qualified medical specialists, clinics and the competent authorities.
