Since LASIK is not an emergency surgery, it is important to take the time to interview at least 2-3 potential LASIK surgeons before choosing someone to perform your surgery.
Talking to a couple different doctors who perform this surgery will help you understand the LASIK procedure better and help you choose a surgeon that you trust (see How to Find a Good LASIK Surgeon). As you are considering what doctor you would like to perform your LASIK eye surgery, there are several questions you should ask a potential LASIK surgeon:
- How much experience do you have performing Lasik eye surgery?
An ophthalmologist may have more experience in other types of refractive surgeries, like PRK, ALK and LASEK, and not be as familiar with the LASIK procedure. As a rule of thumb, it is a good idea to find a surgeon with more than three years experience who demonstrates a thorough understanding of LASIK. Be sure that your ophthalmologist has remained current on the latest techniques and technology and has recent experience performing LASIK eye surgery. - What laser will you be using for my surgery?
Make sure your surgeon is using a laser approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. You can access this information by visitinghttp://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/devicesatfda/index.cfm?search_term=LZS%20or%20LASIK. - What’s involved in after-surgery care?
Your doctor should thoroughly explain side-effects you may experience and provide you with detailed information about how to care for your eyes after surgery. (For more information, see How to Take Care of Your Eyes While you are Recovering from LASIK). - Who will handle after-surgery care?
The same doctor should see you through your LASIK procedure from start to finish. This includes not only your after surgery follow-up care, but also all pre-surgery consultations and exams. - What percentage of your patients achieve 20/40 vision or better after LASIK?
You are looking for a LASIK surgeon whose patients achieve 20/40 vision around 90% of the time. 20/20 vision is not a realistic outcome for all patients. - What percentage of your patients complain of complications six months after surgery?
All surgery involves risks and complications. You want an ophthalmologist who has less than 3% of his or her patients complaining of on-going eye problems six months after surgery. (See Potential Side Effects and Complications of LASIK Surgery). - How many of your patients need retreatment?
Retreatment is a very real possibility associated with LASIK surgery. According to the FTC, a 5-15% return rate is not uncommon. - Have you ever had your license revoked or been rejected as a provider for a health insurance plan?
These are warning signs. Health insurance companies that chose not to include a surgeon as a provider on their plan have a reason for doing so. Additionally, if a doctor’s license has been revoked, you will want to find out why. - Are you certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology?
Surgeons must pass rigorous oral and written examination to be certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology.
Once you have visited with a few doctors and asked them all the same questions, compare the answers you received. Choose the most experienced doctor who gained your trust and confidence.
