Cataract surgery in Washington D.C.: Wait Time vs Cash-Pay Cost
Considering a cataract surgery in Washington D.C.? Here's the typical specialist wait time and what it costs to pay cash versus going through insurance — updated for 2026.
Specialist Wait (Washington D.C.)
32 days
Typical insured appointment wait for Ophthalmology in Washington D.C..
Cash-Pay Range
$3,000–$7,500
Typical US self-pay range at ambulatory surgery centers.
How long is the wait for a cataract surgery in Washington D.C.?
In Washington D.C., the typical specialist appointment wait for ophthalmology care such as cataract surgery is around 32 days. Cash-pay patients at ambulatory surgery centers can often be seen faster, since they skip insurance pre-authorization delays.
What does a cash-pay cataract surgery cost in Washington D.C.?
Self-pay pricing for a cataract surgery in the US typically runs $3,000 to $7,500, averaging around $5,000. For shoppable procedures, cash pay can beat billed insurance rates — especially if you haven't met your deductible.
Other procedures in Washington D.C.
Hip replacement in Washington D.C.Knee replacement in Washington D.C.Shoulder replacement in Washington D.C.Knee arthroscopy in Washington D.C.Meniscus repair in Washington D.C.Carpal tunnel release in Washington D.C.
Source: AMN Healthcare specialist wait-time survey (2025) and typical US self-pay pricing. Figures are indicative ranges for guidance only.