Choosing to undergo LASIK surgery is a significant decision, one that can dramatically improve your quality of life by reducing or eliminating your dependence on glasses and contact lenses. But just as important as deciding to have LASIK is choosing where to have it done. The LASIK practice you select makes a big difference in how your experience goes and what the outcome of your procedure will be. To get the best results, this comprehensive guide will walk you through what to look for in a LASIK practice so you can choose the one that best suits your individual needs.
5 Qualities to Look for in a Top-Notch LASIK Practice
Finding a good LASIK doctor and practice might seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps can make the process straightforward. Here are the essential qualities of a top-notch LASIK practice to guide your search:
1. Experienced and Board-Certified Surgeons.
Look for a LASIK practice with surgeons certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, and who’ve performed thousands of successful LASIK procedures. This ensures that the surgeon has met the strict standards set out in the ophthalmology field and has the experience to show for it.
2. State-of-the-Art Technology.
State-of-the-art technology is a hallmark of what to look for in a LASIK practice. For the safest and most accurate vision correction results, leading practices invest in cutting-edge technology such as femtosecond lasers for precise flap creation (like the Alcon FS200) and sophisticated corneal mapping. Modern LASIK procedures also utilize advanced technologies like Wavefront-guided treatments for personalized vision correction and eye-tracking software for pinpoint accuracy and complication reduction. When choosing a practice, inquire about the specific technologies they employ and how these advancements contribute to improved safety and outcomes.
3. Comprehensive Pre-Operative Assessments.
Thorough pre-operative assessments are a key indicator of a reputable LASIK practice. To confirm your candidacy, these practices conduct comprehensive assessments, including detailed corneal mapping and a careful review of your overall eye health. This in-depth evaluation is crucial for ensuring LASIK is suitable for you and for customizing the procedure to your individual eye characteristics.
4. Positive Patient Reviews and Testimonials & Good Reputation.
Research the practice’s reputation by exploring positive patient reviews and testimonials. A history of satisfied patients is a strong indicator of a practice’s quality and reliability. Check online platforms like Google, Yelp, and other healthcare review sites, and pay attention to both the volume of reviews and the overall sentiment.
5. Consider How They Instill Confidence and Make You Comfortable.
Beyond qualifications and technology, your comfort level with the LASIK practice and LASIK doctor is paramount. From your first phone call to your consultation, assess how the staff makes you feel. Does the LASIK doctor take the time to answer your questions patiently, and thoroughly address your concerns? A good LASIK practice should make you feel at ease, answer all your questions patiently, and address any concerns you may have.
4 Questions to Ask to Make the Most of Your LASIK Consultation
The consultation is your crucial opportunity to evaluate a LASIK practice firsthand and determine if it’s the right fit for you. To maximize this important meeting, come prepared with questions. Here are some questions to ask your potential LASIK surgeon:
1. Who Will Perform My Pre-Operative Assessment and Surgery? Ask if the LASIK doctor is going to conduct your pre-operative assessment or if it’s a trained technician and also confirm which LASIK doctor is operating on you. Knowing who is involved in each step of your journey will give you a clearer picture of the LASIK practice’s approach to patient comfort and care.
2. What Is Your Follow-Up Care Policy? A comprehensive follow-up care policy is critical for monitoring your healing and ensuring optimal results. Ask about the schedule of post-operative appointments and what the practice’s procedure is for addressing any post-LASIK concerns or complications.
3. What’s Included in the Price of the Procedure? Make sure that pricing is transparent and easy to understand. Get a detailed breakdown of what’s included in the price of the procedure. Does it cover the pre-operative assessment, the surgery itself, post-operative care, and enhancement procedures if needed? Knowing the answers to these avoids surprises later on.
4. Are There Additional Charges for Enhancement Procedures? While LASIK has a high success rate, you may need an enhancement touch-up to achieve your desired vision, so you’ll want to ask about the practice’s policy on these types of procedures. Find out if there are additional charges, and under what circumstances are enhancements necessary or given.
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About the Author Written by Dr. Michael Shumski, M.D., M.S.E.
Dr. Shumski is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in cataract & refractive surgery at Magruder Laser Vision in central Florida.
