Choosing a LASIK Doctor

San Diegans have many options when it comes to choosing a LASIK eye surgeon, but the process doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right research and the right questions, you can find a qualified ophthalmologist to perform your procedure. Keep the following suggestions in mind during your search:

1. Choose a doctor with experience. Laser eye surgery can be very successful and safe when performed by the right surgeon. Studies have shown that the most experienced doctors have the lowest complication rates. Although there is debate over how many procedures make a surgeon ‘experienced,’ many experts recommend choosing a doctor who has performed at least 1,000 LASIK eye surgeries.

2. Choose a doctor who is straightforward about the risks associated with laser eye surgery. Your refractive surgeon should not try to sell you on the procedure but rather should provide you with well-balanced information about LASIK benefits and LASIK risks.

3. Choose a doctor who focuses on LASIK. Some ophthalmologists make LASIK the primary emphasis or at least a major part of their practice. By selecting a doctor who specializes in LASIK, you are more likely to find that the surgeon and staff are familiar with your needs, concerns, and questions.

4. Choose a doctor who will be involved in every stage of your LASIK procedure. There are many advantages to having the same ophthalmologist perform your preoperative exam, your surgery, and your postoperative care.

5. Choose a doctor based on qualifications rather than discounts or flashy ads. A good surgeon wants to help his or her patients make educated decisions about their vision not to entice them into having a procedure performed. Research reputable refractive surgeons rather than simply following up on an ad you may have seen or heard.

Remember, choosing a doctor is arguably the most important step you will take in preparing for LASIK eye surgery. Listed below are three prominent San Diego ophthalmologists who perform LASIK.

  • Lee Nordan, M.D., of The Total Eye Care Center
  • Glenn Kawesh, M.D., of Laser and RK Eye Centers
  • Glenn Cook, M.D., PhD, of Alvarado Eye Associates

Learn more about these doctors and find other qualified LASIK surgeons in San Diego.

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