So finally, you have decided to get a laser vision correction procedure, the next important thing comes with choosing the best surgeon to perform the LASIK Surgery.
Taking time to choose the right surgeon is an important step in achieving your vision correction goals. Since everyone is unique, so evaluating various providers who give you the confidence to perform your procedure is extremely valuable.
A skilled LASIK surgeon must have some essential qualifications that you should consider in choosing a LASIK surgeon for your vision correction needs.
Tips To Find The Right LASIK Surgeon:
Board Certification
1) Check the state licensing boards and find out the list of surgeons that can practice their profession in a locality. You can also authenticate the credentials by checking the National Practitioner Data Bank.
2) Check if your surgeon is board-certified in ophthalmology beyond having a basic license to practice medicine. This means that doctors who completed the 18 to 24 months of certification recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties are qualified to practice their specialty.
The American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO) is the one such entity that requires board-certified physicians to undergo specialized training and licensing necessary to certify their specialty as medical professionals.
3) Surgeons who use FACS designation are members of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and must adhere to a particular code of ethics and conduct that holds them to a higher standard of practice.
Online Reviews and Experience
These days’ online reviews are as important as a personal recommendation. Checking reviews and patient testimonials online can help you determine your options.
They can help you understand how well the surgeon performs the surgery but should not necessarily be the only factor to consider.
You can even ask some questions to your surgeon about his experience. This will help you decide if he is the best surgeon who can meet your needs.
Here are some questions to ask:
- What is your success rate, and do you have outcomes data to share?
- How many laser eye surgeries have you done so far?
- What do you mean by a successful procedure and how would you encounter complications from the procedure?
- What approach do you follow to avoid complications if they occur?
- How many of your patients achieved 20/20 vision after the LASIK surgery?
Referrals
Having a referral from someone who already has undergone surgery and had a positive experience with a LASIK surgeon can be a good way for making the decision.
Optometrists or ophthalmologists usually have connections with eye surgeons. They can even tell you which surgeon is the most qualified in their area. These trusted referrals act as a powerful tool in helping you decide the best eye surgeon.
Also read: Things You Need to Take Care of After Undergoing LASIK Surgery
The Price
Pricing will be an important factor in making your decision. The surgeon, clinic location, and equipment all will contribute to the potential costs.
So, it is good to know all these costs before going for the procedure. However, do not compromise the quality of the surgery just so you can save money.
Determine your Insurance Coverage
Most of the insurance plans do not cover LASIK surgery, but there are many LASIK providers who work with vision insurance providers to offer LASIK savings and accept most insurance plans.
To achieve the best results, you have to take time in finding the most qualified surgeon for the procedure. Considering the doctor’s experience and expertise will provide you with the long-term satisfaction you look for!
Image Credit: Romanzaiets
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Thanks for the tip about how I should also consider getting referrals when it comes to finding a good ophthalmology surgeon. I’d like to find one soon because I’d like to get a consultation about getting a LASIK surgery someday. Maybe it would be best to weight out my options now before my eyesight gets any worse.