What to Consider When Selecting a Refractive Surgeon
If you are considering undergoing refractive surgery, there are many things you must take into careful consideration: the type of surgery that’s right for you, the cost of refractive surgery, and the facilities where the surgery will be performed. However, nothing affects the outcome of surgery quite as profoundly as selecting the right refractive surgeon. Here are some things to look for in a good refractive surgery doctor:
A good refractive surgeon will have years of experience. You should only entrust your vision to a refractive surgeon who has been performing LASIK, PRK, LASEK, and other laser surgery procedures successfully for years. There is nothing that instills trust in a doctor quite like a track record of consistent success.
A good refractive surgeon will regularly participate in continuing education courses and seminars. Refractive surgery technology and techniques are rapidly evolving, with new laser platforms being introduced every so often. The only way to stay abreast of changes in ophthalmology is for professionals to participate in continuing education programs.
A good refractive surgeon will have the testimonials of satisfied patients for you to review. Some patients may even be willing to speak with you about their experience with a given surgeon.
A good refractive surgeon will be supported by a highly trained and qualified staff. A refractive surgery practice is only as strong as its weakest team member. When you are evaluating refractive surgeon, be sure to speak with his or her support staff. After all, they will also be involved intimately with your experience at the practice.
A good refractive surgeon will be one with which you feel comfortable. Trust your instincts. If a refractive surgeon has the proper credentials and experience, and he or she uses the latest technology to perform eye surgery, then the final determination must be whether you feel at ease and well treated by that professional. Don’t underestimate the importance of a good table-side manner to any surgical experience.
These are just some of ways that you can measure the excellence of a refractive surgeon during an initial consultation. Be sure to ask lots of questions, and don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if the answers are unclear. If you come away from your initial consultation confident in your knowledge about the surgical procedure you wish to undergo and in the ability of your doctor, then you have probably found the right refractive surgeon for you.
For more information on refractive surgery, contact our Long Island refractive surgery practice. They will be able to answer your questions related to laser vision correction and other treatments.