LASIK SURGEON

HOW TO CHOOSE How to Choose a LASIK Surgeon

Should I get LASIK laser eye

surgery? This may be a question you have been asking yourself for years. Especially after what feels like a lifetime of dealing with glasses or contacts. If you’re one of the 140 million Americans who have a refractive disorder such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) or astigmatism, LASIK laser eye surgery may offer you the freedom from glasses and contacts you have been looking for. Wolfe Eye Clinic is here to help and our LASIK specialty teams are here to walk you through the process step-by-step.

If you’re wondering, “Where do I start?” The first step is choosing a LASIK provider that you feel confident in and comfortable with.

How do I choose a LASIK surgeon?

1. Referrals—Ask your regular eye doctor for a referral to an ophthalmologist they recommend who can perform LASIK eye surgery. If you have family members or friends who have had the procedure, talk to them. In addition, you can find credible LASIK resources by reviewing the listings on professional directories such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

2. Reputation, experience and

education—Find an eye clinic and surgeon who is known for performing successful refractive eye surgeries with a 5% or lower enhancement rate and has experienced, highly trained surgeons on staff.

Reputation matters— A clinic with an outstanding reputation is the one you want. Online reviews for clinics may not be as personal of a referral source, but they certainly are another helpful source in your search.

Look for fellowship-trained and board-certified surgeons. This means surgeons perform specialized training in addition to the standard required years of schooling needed to practice as a doctor of ophthalmology. It is also important that your surgeon be based in Iowa. Many large-chain LASIK surgeons travel between states. Choosing a local provider helps ensure you can receive post-operative care when you need it from your surgeon. 3. Technology—Advances are always being made in technology, and LASIK is no exception. Make sure your surgeon is experienced in using the latest techniques and equipment, such as blade-free, laser

created flap technology which offers greater control in flap creation for a more precise procedure. For example, the Wavelight EX500 Excimer Laser available at Wolfe Eye Clinic offers the widest treatment approval range ever granted to a laser as well as quicker treatment time reducing the risk of dry eye. Not all providers have or use this technology. 4. Multi-level care—Schedule an initial consultation to meet your surgeon and his or her team and determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK laser eye surgery. It’s important to feel comfortable and confident in your choice prior to scheduling surgery.

Your surgeon should be willing to personally educate you about the LASIK procedure and answer any questions you have, including possible complications and post-operative care. The staff at the eye clinic should be friendly, accessible and helpful.

Many ophthalmologists will work with your regular eye doctor for follow-up appointments if you prefer and these are most times covered in the cost of the procedure. Be sure to ask those questions if you’d prefer to have follow-ups with your eye doctor, which may be closer to home. 5. Cost— The cost of eyeglasses and contact lenses can easily add up. LASIK laser eye surgery may offer the ability to invest in your vision. Prices that sound too good to be true, probably are. Make sure to investigate how much the procedure will cost and if there are any additional charges for advanced technology, enhancements, revisions, or post-operative care. LASIK is not covered by insurance so make sure to inquire about health savings account, financing and billing options.

Wolfe Eye Clinic LASIK specialists have performed more LASIK in the state of Iowa than any other provider. If you’re interested in finding out if you’re a candidate for LASIK laser eye surgery, give us a call at (833) 474-5855. Your personal LASIK coordinator will help answer your questions and get you set up for a free, no pressure consultation with one of our experienced LASIK specialists.

Article contributed by Wolfe Eye Clinic