LASIK is a life-changing procedure, and choosing your surgeon should not be taken lightly. Chose a practice that is dedicated to patient safety, the best technology, and careful long-term patient follow-up. We hope you choose us for your surgery, but here is a list of questions to ask if you are looking elsewhere:
- Did your surgeon complete a year-long fellowship in laser refractive surgery?
The more thoroughly trained the surgeon is in the techniques and science behind laser surgery, the more likely he or she is to achieve an excellent result. - Are all (100%) of your LASIK surgeries bladeless (performed with a femtosecond laser)?
Studies have shown that LASIK performed with a femtosecond laser (Intralase is a common type) are safer and more predictable than those performed with a mechanical blade. - Do you use the latest technology? How old is your laser?
Most lasers currently in use are based on technology that is over 15 years old. Newer lasers, such as the Allegretto Wave EyeQ laser, are faster and more precise. - Do you offer vision correction solutions other than LASIK (such as ICL, Intacs, and Refractive Lens Exchange)?
Surgeons who offer the full range of available technologies are best able to customize a treatment plan for your individual needs. - Does your laser stay in a dedicated laser center?
There are some lasers that are in the back of a truck, or transported from city to city on a daily basis. It is important for a laser to remain in a humidity and temperature controlled room at all times to improve accuracy and consistency. - Are you involved in FDA clinical trials?
Doctors who are actively conducting clinical trials are able to remain at the forefront of technology and innovation. - Do you perform vector analysis for astigmatism treatment?
Although most patients with astigmatism can safely have LASIK, we are one of a small group of practices internationally that is actively using vector analysis to assess astigmatism for a lifetime of enhanced visual quality. - Do your surgeons see every patient at every visit?
It is important for the surgeon to be involved in all aspects of the preoperative evaluation and postoperative follow-up. - Are your surgeons members of the prestigious Trusted Lasik Surgeons Directory?
Click here to learn more about Dr. Schlichtemeier and Dr. Kugler.
