Glaucoma Surgery Cost in the US (2025 Guide)

Glaucoma Surgery Cost in the US (2025 Guide)

Glaucoma surgery is often necessary for patients whose eye pressure cannot be controlled by medication or laser treatment. In the United States, the cost of glaucoma surgery in 2025 depends on the procedure type, hospital or clinic, and whether the patient has insurance coverage.

Average Cost of Glaucoma Surgery in the US (2025)

The cost varies widely depending on the procedure:

• Trabeculectomy: Around $3,000 to $6,000 per eye

• Glaucoma Drainage Implants (Shunts/Stents): $4,000 to $8,000 per eye

• Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): $2,500 to $5,000 per eye

• Laser Surgery (SLT or ALT): $1,200 to $2,500 per session

If the patient requires hospitalization, the cost can rise significantly, with total expenses reaching $10,000 or more.

Factors Affecting Glaucoma Surgery Cost in the US

Several elements influence the final cost of glaucoma surgery in the United States, including:

• Type of surgery recommended by the ophthalmologist

• Surgeon’s professional fee and experience level

• Hospital or clinic location (urban hospitals are usually more expensive than rural centers)

• Insurance coverage and co-pay requirements

• Post-surgery medications and follow-up care

Insurance Coverage for Glaucoma Surgery

Most health insurance providers in the US, including Medicare, cover glaucoma surgery when deemed medically necessary. However, out-of-pocket expenses still apply. Patients should expect deductibles, co-insurance, and prescription costs even with coverage.

For uninsured patients, hospitals sometimes offer payment plans or financial assistance programs.

Recovery and Additional Costs

Beyond the initial surgical fee, patients should also budget for:

• Post-operative medications (around $100 to $300 per month)

• Follow-up visits for monitoring eye pressure

• Protective eyewear during recovery

• Possible revision surgery if the initial procedure does not control pressure

Recovery times vary by procedure. Trabeculectomy and implants may take several weeks, while laser surgery typically has a faster recovery period.

Glaucoma Surgery in the US vs. Other Countries

Compared to the Philippines and other Asian countries, the cost of glaucoma surgery in the US is significantly higher. For example, trabeculectomy in the Philippines may cost only ₱35,000 to ₱90,000 (about $600 to $1,600), which is much more affordable than in the US.

This price gap is why some patients explore medical tourism options in countries where high-quality treatment is available at a lower cost.

Bottom Line

The cost of glaucoma surgery in the US (2025) ranges from $1,200 to over $10,000, depending on the procedure, insurance coverage, and hospital fees. Patients should discuss all options with their ophthalmologist and check with their insurance provider to understand the total financial responsibility.

Glaucoma is a lifelong condition, and while surgery can help preserve vision, it also requires long-term follow-up care and expense planning.