Price Shopping & How to Choose a LASIK Surgeon
LASIK is an increasingly common procedure, and finding a LASIK Surgeon is perhaps one of the most important parts of the surgical decision making process. When choosing to have LASIK surgery, it is important to choose a surgeon who is well-trained and highly experienced to guarantee a safe and effective procedure. To choose the best LASIK surgeon, consumers can use a number of resources including the internet, references, or even your friends and family.
Don't Bank Entirely on Price.
Some consumers may be enticed to visit a LASIK surgeon based solely on who advertises discounts or lower prices than other surgeons. While the price of the procedure can be a factor when choosing a LASIK surgeon, other important factors should be considered. LASIK vision correction is a serious medical procedure that must be performed by a highly-skilled surgeon with exceptional training and experience. The procedure can be expensive, but healthy eyes are priceless. Visiting a surgeon based only on price is gambling with one's vision. The decision should incorporate the procedure price and financing options, and the reputation of the LASIK Practice, the LASIK Technology used and the surgeon's skill and experience.
Review and Research the Technology.
Consumers should take note of the Technology Used by a LASIK Surgeon. As new technologies and techniques emerge, LASIK vision correction also evolves, providing patients with better results and less discomfort. A surgeon should offer the newest, most effective FDA-approved lasers and technology for optimal safety and results. Many of these new LASIK technologies provide highly accurate measurements and laser technology for optimum Laser Vision Correction. To learn more about new FDA-approved technology, consumers can visit internet sites which specialize in providing consumers useful information about LASIK and the newest and safest laser technology.
Ask Around.
One of the best ways to find a LASIK surgeon is through word-of-mouth. Friends and family who have had the procedure are often more than happy to recommend a surgeon. Trusted sources like friends and family may also provide detailed information about a doctor's personality and quality of patient care that a Web site or advertisement may not offer.
Consumers can also ask their ophthalmologist or eye care professional for a referral to a LASIK surgeon. Doctors who are familiar with their patient's unique vision correction needs can assist in the process of finding a qualified LASIK surgeon who specializes in a variety of special vision conditions.
To learn more about a particular LASIK surgeon, consumers can ask the surgeon for references or consult with previous patients. References can help a person learn more about how well a LASIK surgeon treats patients both medically and personally.
A more direct approach is asking a LASIK surgeon specific questions about her or his experience and qualifications.
Some questions to ask a LASIK surgeon may include:
- Where and when did you earn your medical degree(s)?
- How long have you been in practice?
- What kind of laser technology do you use?
- How is LASIK performed?
- What is the cost of the procedure and are pre and post operative visits included in this price?
- If re-treatments are necessary, are they included in this price?
- What financing options do you offer?
- How long have you been performing LASIK vision correction?
- How many vision correction surgeries have you performed?
- What can I expect to experience during and after the procedure?
Questions such as these can help a consumer become familiarized with both the surgeon and the procedure.
Surf the Internet.
The internet is a useful and convenient tool that allows consumers to easily research LASIK surgeons. Many LASIK surgeons have web pages that highlight specific details about their practices including the technology and lasers they use and surgical fees. A LASIK surgeon's web page may also outline the surgeon's education and certifications.
The internet can also be useful for verifying a surgeon's credentials. Many official ophthalmology organizations such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology have Web sites that allow consumers to search for officially accredited surgeons in their area.
Consumers can also visit consumer advocacy organization Web sites such as the National Consumers League for tips on choosing a physician. These groups also specialize in providing public warnings about untrained or unofficially certified LASIK surgeons to prevent medical malpractice.
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