Yes, eye surgery is eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) when performed to correct or treat a vision or eye-related medical condition.
Why Is Eye Surgery FSA/HSA Eligible?
Eye surgery includes a range of procedures performed to correct vision problems or treat eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, or retinal issues. These surgeries are considered eligible medical expenses under IRS Code Section 213(d) because they are used to diagnose, treat, or correct a physical condition affecting the eyes.
According to IRS Publication 502, surgical procedures that are not cosmetic and are performed for medical reasons—such as improving vision or treating disease—are reimbursable with FSA and HSA funds.
FSA- and HSA-eligible eye surgery procedures may include:
Cataract surgery
Glaucoma surgery
LASIK or PRK to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism
Retinal detachment repair
Corneal transplants
Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) when performed to improve vision
- Surgery to correct crossed eyes (strabismus)
What’s Not Covered?
The following are not eligible:
Cosmetic eye surgeries with no medical purpose (e.g., cosmetic eyelid surgery not affecting vision)
Elective vision correction procedures performed purely for convenience or aesthetic enhancement (in rare cases where not medically necessary)
Procedures performed by unlicensed providers or outside a clinical setting
To qualify, the procedure must be performed to treat a diagnosed vision issue or disease and be carried out by a licensed medical professional.
How to Use Your FSA or HSA for Eye Surgery
You can use your FSA or HSA card at the time of surgery to cover qualifying expenses. If paying out of pocket:
Request an itemized invoice from the clinic or hospital
Save documentation from your provider outlining the diagnosis and reason for surgery (especially for LASIK or similar procedures)
Submit for reimbursement through your FSA or HSA administrator if required
For more details on qualifying surgical expenses, refer to IRS Publication 502.
