Cataract surgery
Medicare Coverage Information
Overview
Medicare Part B covers medically necessary cataract surgery, including standard lens implantation and related pre-surgical and post-surgical care. Patients are responsible for a portion of the surgical costs, typically 20% after meeting their annual deductible.
- Medicare Part B covers cataract surgery when deemed medically necessary
- Covers standard intraocular lens implantation during surgery
- Includes pre-surgical exams and post-surgical follow-up care
- Outpatient surgical procedures are typically covered
- Patients are responsible for 20% of approved Medicare costs
- Medicare Part B beneficiaries
- Patients with documented medical need for cataract removal
- Individuals 65 and older
- Some disabled individuals under 65 may also qualify
- Patients pay 20% of Medicare-approved costs after meeting Part B deductible
- Typical out-of-pocket costs range from $500-$1,500 depending on specific procedure
- Additional costs may apply for advanced lens options beyond standard implants
- Must be performed by Medicare-approved healthcare providers
- Surgery must be medically necessary, not purely cosmetic
- Advanced lens technologies may require additional out-of-pocket expenses
- Frequency of coverage limited to medically required procedures
- Consult with an ophthalmologist to determine medical necessity
- Verify coverage details with your specific Medicare plan
- Get pre-authorization for surgical procedure
- Call 1-800-MEDICARE for specific coverage questions
Last updated: 6/15/2025
Quick Information
- Provider
- Medicare
- Last Updated
- 6/15/2025
- Topics
- Medicarecataract surgeryeye surgeryMedicare Part Bvision coverage
Related Coverage Topics
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