LASIK eye surgery might be the solution for you if you’re tired of wearing glasses or contacts. However, it’s important to choose the right doctor for this type of surgery. Your eyesight is what we’re talking about here, so only the best care will do.
That being said, it’s very possible to find a good LASIK surgeon in New York City if you know what to look for. This is because the city has some of the best eye care centers and Lasik NYC surgeons. Ironically, these many options can make it hard to reach a decision. Therefore, to help you out, this article will discuss the important things to consider when choosing a LASIK surgeon in New York City.
Make Sure the Doctor Is Properly Certified
The first step you should take is to confirm that the doctor has the right training. They should have certification from the American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO). This certification proves that they have passed the required exams and are up to date on new medical standards.
A surgeon who is a part of groups like the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) is also a good sign. This shows that they are interested in continuing education and staying current. To find out about their certifications, check their clinic’s website or ask them directly during your first appointment.
Look for Extra Training in LASIK and Refractive Surgery
LASIK isn’t something every eye doctor does. Your doctor should have extra training in LASIK and other vision correction surgeries. After medical school, a lot of the best doctors complete a fellowship in corneal and refractive surgery.
When a doctor has this kind of training, they know how to work on every part of the eye. Also, they’re more likely to spot any risks early on. You should ask your surgeon where they trained and what kind of surgeries they specialize in.
Experience Matters
You don’t want to be the first or even the tenth person a surgeon performs LASIK on. Instead, you should pick someone who has done a lot of LASIK surgeries. Such professionals know how to treat the different eye conditions that can be treated with LASIK because of the experience they have acquired. You can click this link to see the vision problems that LASIK can correct.
Therefore, you should ask them how many LASIK surgeries they’ve performed and what percentage of those operations were successful. A good doctor should be happy to share these numbers. Also, it’s a good idea to read reviews from other patients or ask to speak with someone who had similar vision problems.
Ask about Other Types of Vision Correction Offered
Most people get LASIK, but it’s not the only laser vision surgery. You could also choose PRK, SMILE, ICL, or RLE. A good surgeon should know how to do all of these procedures, not just one.
If LASIK is the only surgery your surgeon does, they may try to push you to get it even if it’s not the best for your condition. You need someone who can properly diagnose your eye condition and recommend what is the best solution. Such flexibility proves that they care about your vision and aren’t just trying to sell you a service.
Check the Technology they Use
In this procedure, advanced lasers are used to change the shape of your cornea. The process is safer and more accurate when top-quality equipment is used. The WaveLight Allegretto Wave Eye-Q and the VISX STAR S4 IR are two great systems that you can trust.
Find out from your doctor what kind of laser platform they use. Also, ask if they use wavefront-guided technology as well. This enables the professional to come up with a treatment plan that fits the unique shape of your eye.
Pay Attention to Patient Reviews and Referrals
A lot about how people feel about a doctor can be found in online reviews. Look for repeated praise like follow-up care, communication, and results. It’s a bad sign if several reviews say the doctor rushed through appointments.
On the other hand, it’s a good sign when other doctors, engineers, or even famous people trust the surgeon. Some of the best LASIK doctors in New York City have performed surgery on pilots, actors, and TV hosts. These patients have high expectations and usually pick the best care available, so you can often trust their judgment.
Comfort and Trust Matter
You should feel safe and at ease with the doctor. After all, you’re putting your eyes in their hands. Therefore, trust your gut if something doesn’t feel right during your consultation.
You can bring a friend or family member along during the consultation for support. If you’re still not sure, you can also get a second opinion. You should never feel pressured to pick a doctor or go through surgery right away.
Understand the Costs
Most insurance plans don’t cover LASIK, so knowing the cost is important. However, you should not choose a surgeon because their prices are cheap. Being cheap doesn’t always mean better. Some low-cost clinics skip full consultations or use outdated technology just to save money.
Therefore, ask for a breakdown of all the costs, including the cost of follow-up visits. You can use financing plans, or a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) offered at some clinics.
Conclusion
Choosing the right LASIK doctor in New York City might take some time, but it’s worth it. You should not have to rush through appointments or settle for one-size-fits-all solutions. Therefore, pay attention to the doctor’s training, experience, technology, and how they treat you as a person.
Keep in mind that the surgery is a one-time decision that will have an effect on you for life. So, you need to choose a doctor that makes you feel safe and confident throughout the process. When you make the right choice, you can rest assured knowing that you’ll enjoy a clear vision once again.
