Medical Ophthalmology

Choosing laser eye surgery to free you from glasses and contacts is a life-altering decision. It’s a decision you don’t want to take likely because of how delicate the procedure is. Finding the right eye surgeon to perform the surgery is the most critical decision you can make. But how do you choose the right one?

Ask Questions

Selecting the right surgeon takes research and preparation. When considering various eye surgeons, don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions:

· What kind of experience and reputation does the doctor have?

· Is laser vision correction a major part of his/her practice?

· Does the doctor participate in all processes of the procedure including preoperative and postoperative exams?

· Will he/she explain all advantages as well as the risks of the various laser eye surgery options?

· Does he/she listen well and respond patiently and in detail your questions and concerns?

Friends, Family, Former Patients

Find out more about the doctor’s reputation through testimonials and first-hand accounts from other people’s surgical experiences.

· Consult family, friends, co-workers who’ve recently had an eye surgery procedure

· Ask the doctor for testimonials from previous patients.

Investigate

· Check out their website for details on their history, testimonials and credentials.

· Visit and get a “feel” for their office and the surgeon’s communication style

· What kind of environment are you comfortable in? A large corporate-type office or something more intimate and private?

Doctor’s Credentials

Look for a laser eye surgeon with a good reputation and significant experience. Ask your doctor about his/her credentials:

· A reputable LASIK surgeon will have attended an accredited university

· Are they members of any professional associations?

· The American Academy of Ophthalmology

· Their state’s society of Ophthalmology

· Ask about any other achievements including publications or awards

Custom LASIK Surgeon

Custom LASIK surgery is more complicated than traditional LASIK. Your doctor requires additional training for this specialized form of laser eye surgery. Find out how much experience the doctor has with the following custom LASIK technologies:

· LADARVision® CustomCornea® This system focuses on precisely aligning treatment with the cornea and reshaping it bit by bit.

· VISX® CustomVueTM and WavePrintTM System Uses a variety of laser beam shapes, which can deliver extremely precise treatment.

· Bausch & Lomb Technolas® ZyoptixTM System Used in more custom LASIK operations than any other platforms – known for their accuracy, predictability, and ability to create smooth corneal surfaces.

· Wavelight Allegretto WaveTM System PerfectPulse Technology to deliver laser energy to specific areas of the cornea.

Other Considerations

Discounted prices, aggressive advertising and geographic convenience may not be the best reasons to choose a doctor. Remember there are risks involved, so take your time to make the right decision choosing the best doctor and best procedure for you.




By: Patricia Woloch