- When considering laser eye surgery, get all the facts about risks and complications so you can make an informed decision. No corrective eye surgery is 100 percent safe or successful.
- Be realistic. If you're expecting perfect vision you might be disappointed.
- Your GP, optometrist, or ophthalmologist may be able to recommend a laser eye surgeon. However, ask them if they get a "referral fee" from the laser eye clinic. We've heard of cases where this happens.
- Ask what the surgeon's experience is with correcting the type and degree of your vision problem. Ask for data on their surgery outcomes. Choose a surgeon who is a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (look for the letters FRANZCO or FRACO after their name).
- Don't go by cost alone. Does the price include check-ups and enhancement procedures? These may be necessary if the first operation leaves the eye under- or over-corrected.
More information
- Eye Surgery Education Council: www.lasikinstitute.org
- Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists: www.ranzco.edu
- US Food and Drug Administration: www.fda.gov/cdrh/lasik
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