What Is Your Professional Experience?
The single most important decision you will make regarding LASIK is the surgeon you select. The baseline criteria for a LASIK surgeon is someone that has graduated medical school, performed an ophthalmology residency program and become board certified. Ideally, you want some additional credentials, such as special advanced training through a fellowship program or something similar. Other “bonuses” include teaching fellow surgeons or students, publishing articles and belonging to professional associations.
How Many LASIK Procedures Have You Performed?
Ask your surgeon how many LASIK procedures they have performed; they should be able to provide this information. You want someone that has performed a high volume of procedures and uses the latest technology and techniques. This ensures that their skills are refined and up-to-date.
Am I a Good Candidate for LASIK?
Your initial consultation should include a comprehensive eye examination and some testing to determine whether you qualify for LASIK surgery. Your refractive error should be within a certain range, you should not be pregnant or nursing and you should have a stable prescription. Ask your surgeon whether they recommend the procedure based on these factors, or if they would suggest an alternative or even postponing surgery.
What Results Can I Reasonably Expect?
Try to get a clear understanding of what you can reasonably expect after LASIK. Will you still need to wear glasses or contacts occasionally? Regularly? When can you expect to see improvements in your vision? What are the chances you will need future enhancement?
For a good idea of what to expect with a particular surgeon, you can read patient reviews or testimonials describing their experience.
How Do You Handle Complications?
LASIK is generally a safe and successful procedure. However, any surgical procedure involves some degree of risk. In the rare case that something goes awry, you want to know how your surgeon would handle it. The most experienced surgeons can explain their approach to complications and to cases where future enhancements are needed (rare, but possible).
Schedule Your Consultation with Yaldo Eye Center
To schedule a consultation at a Yaldo Eye Center location, please call (800) 398-3937.
