Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Laser Vision Correction (ASA Surgery) cost at your practice?
We offer two types of ASA Laser Eye Surgery at Moskowitz Eye Care:
One is a regular ablation that corrects you exactly like your glasses and contact lenses do (to the nearest .25 of a diopter (D)) and will only correct for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. That type costs $4,600 for the two eyes.
The other type is a more precise custom correction which corrects you prescription to the nearest .01D and also corrects for multiple higher orders of aberration (causes of blurry vision). Think of it like you would a custom suit compared to one bought off the rack. The cost of this correction is $5,600 for the two eyes.
Read more about ASA laser eye surgery or our pricing.
How do I choose between all the different ophthalmologists in NYC?
I get it – there are hundreds of ophthalmologists in Manhattan alone! And most of the big LASIK centers have big marketing budgets.
At the end of the day, you have to choose the one with whom you'll be most comfortable and in whom you have the most confidence. No one likes a pushy surgeon. Good judgement is essential. Availability is also a must. Does this surgeon give you his cell phone and is available day and night? Does he or she delegate your care with others in the office, sometimes to non-MD's who may lack the experience that an MD has?
I wrote a Guide to Getting LASIK+ surgery in NYC – it might help you make a decision!
What services at your practice are covered by insurance, and which are not?
Most in-office eye exams are covered by your medical insurance. Most medical insurances do not cover refractions (eyeglass prescriptions) or contact lens fittings. Very few insurances cover Laser Vision Correction. This is considered an elective and not an essential service. Laser Vision Correction consultations are complimentary in the office. Please be aware that copays are often required at the time of your visit and that you may have a deductible that has to be met before your insurance starts to pay.
How do I know if I'm a good candidate for ASA Surgery?
If you have a stable prescription and testing shows that your cornea has enough healthy tissue and also is regular in steepness and shape. There are some contraindications like systemic collagen issues, uncontrolled diabetes, very dry eyes, a planned pregnancy in the next 6 months, pathology in the eye like a cataract that would make you a poor candidate. These are the major ones, but Dr. Moskowitz can discuss others during your consultation.
Do you also perform PRK or LASIK surgery?
No, I solely perform ASA (Advanced Surface Ablation), which is like a modern version of PRK. It’s also referred to as LASEK. I stopped performing about 10 years ago and view ASA is a better option than PRK.
How does ASA compare to PRK and LASIK?
I go into detail about this on my PRK vs. ASA vs. LASIK page. Please contact me with any questions you have!
Is ASA the same as LASEK? What about SMILE?
ASA is similar to LASEK in that they're both done on the surface of the eye and not at a deeper level like LASIK. LASEK by definition involves replacement of the surface of the eye at the time of the procedure, but this is seldom done any longer. ASA is very different from SMILE which is a relatively new procedure in which lenticule of corneal tissue is removed from the cornea. This requires an incision, unlike the non-cutting ASA. Removing this lenticule changes the shape of the cornea correcting the myopia.
What laser is used in your ASA operations?
We use a Star S4 excimer laser with Iris registration technology.
Where are you located?
My office is located in Manhattan –
114 E 72nd St.
New York, NY 10021We’re between Park and Lexington on East 72nd.
Is that where you perform your surgeries?
I perform surgeries at the world-famous New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mt. Sinai. Their equipment is state-of-the-art and their facilities are top-notch.
I’m interested in Laser Vision Correction. What’s my next step?
Simple – contact me for a free consultation!