A Survey of Consumer Demand for Premium Cataract Surgery

Since their introduction five years ago, presbyopia-correcting IOLs have created a new category within cataract surgery. The combination of greater visual functionality with the ability to charge an additional fee for the implantation of these lenses has given ophthalmology a new premium-level offering to consumers who are considering cataract surgery. Historical data collected by Market Scope (St. Louis, MO) and others indicate that approximately 7% of cataract patients choose to “upgrade” to premium IOLs at an average out-of-pocket fee of $2, 284 per eye. SM2 Strategic fielded a survey of cataract patients to determine awareness and willingness to pay for premium lens implants. Results from 279 patients who completed an online survey indicate that awareness of these new options is low. Once educated, interest is high, with the majority of consumers surveyed indicating they would like unaided vision for all distances. Nearly half (47%) are willing to pay at least $1, 000, with one-fourth saying “money is no object” when it comes to investing in improving their vision…

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