What to look for in a
LASIK eye doctor

Fellowship Training:

True specialists in all fields of medicine do further training in their area of sub-specialty. This is called a fellowship.

For ophthalmology (eye doctor), excellent fellowship programs have existed for many years in such areas as glaucoma, corneal disease and retinal disease.

Refractive surgery (Laser eye surgery) fellowships have recently begun to train surgeons in LASIK. Any eye surgeon you select should be a fellowship trained LASIK specialist.

Experience:

In addition to formal LASIK education, ask how long the surgeon has been performing LASIK and how many cases he or she has performed.

Despite the best education, there is no substitute for experience. Any surgeon should be happy to answer this question personally.

An experienced veteran eye surgeon will have performed the procedure more than a thousand times.

Attention to Detail:

Another extremely important clue to quality care is how carefully the surgeon evaluates your eyes prior to surgery.

Some laser centers and surgeons with organized networks of referring Optometrists use a system where the surgeon NEVER sees the patient preoperatively (before surgery) and the laser center/surgeon pays the referring optometrist.

Skillful surgery is only just one of the responsibilities of the surgeon. Look for a surgeon that will examine you before surgery, evaluate the findings, discuss with you the plan of action for your particular case and answer all of your questions to your satisfaction.

You should never be made to feel that you are asking too many questions and you should feel comfortable to ask the same question over and over until you get the appropriate response you are looking for. Other technicians and doctors may be involved in your care as well, but there is no substitute for the in depth knowledge and experience of the surgeon for your care.