How to Choose a LASIK Surgeon

Choosing the right LASIK surgeon is the #1 important step when deciding to have laser refractive surgery. Although price and financing options may well play a role in your choice of LASIK surgeons, it probably should not be the deciding factor. Television and radio ads (even if the spokesman is Tiger Woods) advertising “low, low prices on LASIK surgery” are just that; ads that want you to buy their service. Instead of relying on the media, ask your primary care doctor or optometrist for the name of an experienced ophthalmologist (eye surgeon) in your area. You may also want to ask trusted friends and family members for the name of the LASIK surgeon that they used and were happy with. You should know that your health insurance will most likely not cover the cost of your LASIK surgery. If you cannot afford the eye surgeon that you consider to be the ‘best’, you may want to save up your money until you can afford it. These are your eyes we’re talking about; this is not the time to go bargain shopping!

Making an Informed Decision in Selecting a LASIK Surgeon

In deciding on an ophthalmologist, it is of the utmost importance to find one who is well-trained and highly experienced in the different laser refractive surgeries that are available i.e. LASIK, LASEK, PRK. Since there are a myriad of surgical procedures to suit different problems and different eyes, it is important that the LASIK surgeon you choose be knowledgeable and highly-trained in all of them. The surgeon who you decide upon should offer the newest, FDA-approved lasers and techniques to optimize your comfort, safety and results. Since this person is going to operate on your eyes, you should also be comfortable with him or her as a person. If you find that you are not completely at ease with the doctor during your initial consultation/exam, find another surgeon with whom you are comfortable.

Questions for Your Surgeon

During this first consultation, the doctor should perform a thorough eye exam and ask you about your general health. This is the time to ask the doctor some questions, as well. You can ask him or her for the names and phone numbers (or e-mail addresses) of former satisfied patients who are willing to share their experiences, if you are comfortable contacting strangers. You should also ask the doctor some of the following questions:

• Where and when did you receive your MD, perform residency/fellowship and receive specialized LASIK surgery training?
• How long have you been in practice and how many LASIK-type operations have you performed?
• What type of laser technology do you use?
• What is the cost of the surgery; what are the financing options; does cost include pre- and post-surgical check-ups and any needed follow-up surgery?
• What should I expect during my surgery, immediately after and long term results?

Basically, use your common sense and follow your gut instincts when choosing your LASIK surgeon. Ask your other doctors, ask trusted associates, do some research. When you have made an informed decision, relax; you will love not having to rely on contact lenses or glasses while playing your favorite sports or pursuing your favorite hobbies.

Please click on the form on this page to receive more information about LASIK and CK for Hyperopia. You will be glad that you did.