After making the decision to have Lasik surgery, it’s time to find a Lasik surgeon for the job. When you go looking, it may feel like there are Lasik eye surgery doctors everywhere just because you’ll see several choices, but finding the right one isn’t that difficult, you just need to know what to look for and the right questions to ask.
What Basic Information to Look For In A Lasik Surgeon
Dr. Robert T. Lin of IQ Laser Vision trained with the premier Lasik surgeons around the world at the biggest ophthamology conference ASCRS ASOA Los Angeles.
Credentials and Certifications.One of the first things to do is to check their credentials using the National Practitioner Data Bank. You’ll also want to make sure they are board certified – recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties as certified in that specialty area. In this case, it should be by the American Board of Ophthalmology. One step higher than simple board certification is demonstrated if you see “FACS” following their other titles such as MD, this indicates they have met ethical standards of conducts through the American College of Surgeons.
Beyond those, check with your eye doctor to see if they have any recommendations of who can do the surgery.
You also want to consider the Lasik surgeon’s office, will it be convenient for your surgery and any subsequent visits. Are the staff helpful and kind when they work with you and others? Is the office atmosphere professional as well as comfortable? Those are things you want to know about before trusting your future eyesight to a Lasik eye surgery doctor.
Other Questions to Ask To Find The Right Lasik Surgeon
Start the process with a Lasik consultation. This gives you a chance to check out the office and how you feel about moving forward with that surgeon. Prepare in advance with a list of questions you want to discuss. We have several for you to use, but add any that you should be answered for your comfort. It can be intimidating to talk with a doctor, but remember he will be paid for his services and your eyes are important so ask these questions.
Costs and Location.You want to ask about the surgery costs, but also about any additional charges that might include follow-up visits or services if complications arise after the surgery. What charges might there be if a future enhancement is required? Does the billing department break down all the charges or do they simply request a lump-sum payment?
Where will the surgery take place – at their clinic/office or someplace else? If they do surgerys at their location, it’s usually a good sign that they have deeper experience and skills. Has that location and/or the clinic ever had a serious eye infection outbreak?
Number of Procedures and Complications. How many procedures to complete this process? Are there other options than Lasik surgery that might be better suited to your needs?
What are the possibilities of complications to a particular choice – including the national averages and this Lasik surgeon’s history with a procedure?
Now, you need to think about any additional questions or concerns you want to address with your chosen Lasik eye surgery doctor. Take the time you need to get comfortable before moving forward.
