As we said before, they're your eyes so picking a good doctor is important. But how to do it? Although there's not doctor out there who is ever 100 percent perfect, there are a few things to keep in mind that can help you sort the wheat from the chaff.
Be wary of slick advertising. Don't be taken in by a great-looking brochure. A great deal of competition for laser eye surgery patients means a great deal of advertising: newspapers, radios, mailings, you name it. “No interest! No money down! Lowest prices ever!” (Are these your eyes, or a used Honda Civic they're talking about?) Of course, good doctors advertise, too, but an ad should not be your starting (or ending!) point in picking a place to have your procedure done.
- Be cautious of any doctor or eye center that makes loads of fabulous-sounding promises, without informing you adequately about the risks and drawbacks. “20/20 Vision... Guaranteed!” There are no guarantees in any surgical procedure. And a doctor who doesn't talk with you about the risks and drawbacks isn't being upfront.
- Get a referral. Your regular ophthalmologist, optometrist or even your general practitioner probably has the names of the best eye surgeons in your area. This is one of your greatest resources. Do not pass it up.
