Herzig Eye Institute in Refractive Surgery on May 9, 2019

At Herzig Eye Institute, our experienced refractive surgeons are committed to providing you with not only the best possible treatment and care, but also the knowledge and tools you need to make informed and confident decisions when it comes to your vision. If you are considering refractive surgery, the first step towards crisper and clearer vision is to schedule a consultation at Herzig Eye Institute. It is during this consultation that you will have the opportunity to ask questions about the surgeon’s qualifications and experience. It is important that you choose an experienced refractive surgeon that carefully evaluates your visual needs and recommends the procedure that is best for you. Working with an experienced refractive surgeon with whom you feel comfortable maximizes your chances of a successful procedure and visual result.

To assist you with the decision-making process, Herzig Eye Institute shares the following list of questions that you should ask about your surgeon during your initial consultation.

Do you regularly perform refractive surgery? Many eye surgeons advertise refractive surgeries as part of their practice but perform them on a part-time or limited basis. A “full-time” refractive surgeon, meaning one that regularly performs refractive surgeries, possesses a higher level of experience that can make all the difference in regards to your care and results.

Are you fellowship trained? Fellowship-trained refractive surgeons undergo additional training beyond residency and medical school. This provides these surgeons with a depth and breadth of knowledge and experience when evaluating, treating and caring for refractive patients.

What type of technology do you use? Your refractive surgeon should have experience using the latest diagnostic and laser technology available. Advances in diagnostic tools have made way for more personalized treatment, while blade-free, “all laser” procedures enhance the precision of refractive surgery. Refractive surgeries performed with outdated technology (e.g., manual surgical instruments like a microkeratome)can increase the risk of complications or subpar visual outcomes.

In the rare case that a complication occurs, how do you handle it? An experienced surgeon has an exceptional track record of successful laser vision correction results, and knows how to minimize the risk of complications. However, complication-free surgery is never guaranteed, even with the most experienced refractive surgeons. Qualified surgeons will be transparent and upfront about all possible complications and will explain the steps they take to prevent and handle them.

What is your candidate screening process like? Laser vision correction is safe, proven and effective, but it is not right for everyone. An experienced refractive surgeon will utilize the most advanced diagnostic tools and equipment to determine what procedure is right for you. He or she will use the information gathered via the comprehensive evaluation to tailor your treatment plan to match your vision needs.  

What are my options for refractive surgery? While LASIK is the most frequently performed refractive surgery in the world, it is not the only option available. At Herzig Eye Institute, SMILE is more often the laser vision correction procedure of choice among patients that are candidates for both procedures. An experienced refractive surgeon will thoroughly examine your eyes, vision and unique case to determine the most appropriate treatment. He or she will discuss in detail with you all available options.

The Decision Is Yours

Before finalizing your decision, here are a few questions to ask yourself:

  • How comfortable do you feel with the vision centre’s staff?
  • Do you feel that the staff listened to all of your concerns patiently and objectively, and answered them thoroughly?
  • Did the staff provide you with the information and proper informed consent materials for surgery?

While proper training and experience are certainly important, you must also consider the surgeon’s demeanor and attention to patient care. Working with a surgeon that you trust will treat you with the highest standards of service and comfort will help ensure a positive and successful custom vision correction experience. Stay clear of refractive surgeons that make you feel pressured to make a decision or too intimidated to ask them important questions. The right refractive surgeon will guide you through the process so you can make confident decisions when it comes to your vision needs and goals. After all, your vision is one of the most valuable assets you have.

At Herzig Eye Institute, our board-certified eye surgeons have performed thousands of successful custom vision correction and refractive procedures, including PRK, LASIK, SMILE, ICL, and Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE). Rest assured that your vision is in good hands with our world-class team.

To learn more about refractive procedures at Herzig Eye Institute, please contact us today.