Cataracts are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye. They are common as you age. According to the National Eye Institute, more than half of adults in the United States over the age of 80 have cataracts or have had surgery to correct cataracts.

Surgery is typically a treatment for cataracts when they begin to affect everyday activities, like driving, reading, or watching television.

Medicare will generally cover cataract surgery that implants a conventional intraocular lens in most areas.

An intraocular lens is a small artificial lens that replaces your eye’s natural lens during cataract surgery. These lenses are typically made of acrylic, silicone, or other plastic compositions.

Medicare will only cover basic intraocular lenses. If a healthcare professional recommends a more advanced lens, you may be responsible for paying the total cost.

Medicare doesn’t typically cover glasses or contact lenses. But if you have cataract surgery that implants an intraocular lens, Medicare Part B will cover one pair of glasses with standard frames or one set of contact lenses.

After you meet the Part B deductible of $257, you’ll be responsible for paying 20% of the Medicare-approved costs. You’ll also have to pay any additional amounts for upgraded frames.

Medicare will only pay for eyeglasses or contact lenses from a supplier that’s enrolled in Medicare.

The total cost of cataract surgery varies by area. Medicare notes the national average cost of cataract surgery as follows:

  • Ambulatory surgical centers: $1,906
  • Hospital outpatient department: $2,943

Once you have met the Medicare Part B deductible, you’re responsible for 20% of the Medicare-approved costs.

Based on the national average costs, you’d pay the following approximate amounts:

  • Ambulatory surgical centers: $380
  • Hospital outpatient department: $588