Medicare Part B may cover cataract surgery that implants conventional intraocular lenses, depending on where you live. When the surgery is covered, what you pay depends on the setting, whether you have met the Part B deductible, and a few other billing factors.
Coverage at a glance
| Where you get care | Original Medicare coverage and costs |
|---|---|
| Hospital outpatient setting or ambulatory surgical center | After the Part B deductible, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount to both the facility and the doctor who performs the surgery. |
| Doctor’s office | After the Part B deductible, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for both the intraocular lens and the surgery to implant it. |
| After surgery that implants an intraocular lens | Part B covers one pair of eyeglasses with standard frames, or one set of contact lenses. |
What can change your total cost
Your final amount can vary based on other insurance you have, how much your doctor charges, whether your doctor accepts assignment, the type of facility, and where you receive the service. Medicare also notes that some recommended services may not be covered or may be offered too frequently, which can create extra costs.
What to confirm before surgery
- Ask whether the cataract surgery is covered for your situation.
- Ask which setting applies: outpatient hospital, ambulatory surgical center, or doctor’s office.
- Ask whether you have already met the Part B deductible.
- Ask whether the doctor accepts assignment.
- Ask whether you will qualify for the post-surgery eyeglasses or contact lenses benefit.
If you have Medicare Advantage
Your plan must provide at least the same coverage as Original Medicare, but its rules and costs can differ. Before scheduling care, confirm the surgeon, facility, any required approval and your plan’s cost-sharing. The Original Medicare percentages above are not a promise of what a Medicare Advantage member will pay.
Frequently asked questions
Does Medicare cover cataract surgery?
Yes, Part B may cover cataract surgery that implants conventional intraocular lenses, depending on where you live.
What do I pay for covered surgery?
In the covered settings listed above, you generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after the Part B deductible.
Does Medicare help with glasses after cataract surgery?
Yes. Medicare Part B covers one pair of eyeglasses with standard frames, or one set of contact lenses, after each cataract surgery that implants an intraocular lens.
Related coverage questions
- Medicare Vision Coverage: Eye Exams, Glasses and Costs
- Does Medicare Cover Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses?