If you’re researching LASIK, one of your first questions is likely: what type of eye doctor actually performs this procedure?
The answer is straightforward: LASIK must be performed by an ophthalmologist. These medical doctors have completed extensive training in eye surgery and hold the credentials necessary to perform surgical procedures on the eye.
While optometrists play an important role in eye care, they cannot perform LASIK surgery. Keep reading to learn the different types of eye care professionals and their qualifications, so you can make informed decisions about your vision correction options!
The Difference Between Ophthalmologists and Optometrists
The distinction between these two types of eye care professionals matters when you’re considering surgical vision correction.
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who have completed four years of medical school followed by at least four years of specialized residency training in ophthalmology. This training includes surgical techniques, treatment of eye diseases, and comprehensive medical management of eye conditions. Only ophthalmologists can perform surgical procedures like LASIK, cataract surgery, and other eye operations.
Optometrists, while essential members of the eye care team, have different training and scope of practice. They complete four years of optometry school and earn a Doctor of Optometry degree. Optometrists excel at vision examinations, prescribing corrective lenses, and diagnosing many common eye conditions.
In your LASIK journey, an optometrist may conduct your initial screening or provide follow-up care, but the surgery itself must be performed by an ophthalmologist.
At Dell Laser Consultants in Austin, our team includes both ophthalmologists and optometrists working together.
What Qualifications Should Your LASIK Surgeon Have?
Beyond the basic requirement of being an ophthalmologist, you want a surgeon with specific expertise in refractive surgery. Look for someone who has completed fellowship training in cornea and refractive surgery, which provides additional specialized education beyond residency.
Board certification matters. Ophthalmologists who are board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology have demonstrated their knowledge through rigorous examinations. This certification requires ongoing education to maintain, showing a commitment to staying current with advances in the field.
Experience counts significantly when it comes to surgical outcomes. A surgeon who has performed thousands of procedures brings refinement and expertise that comes only from repetition. They’ve encountered various eye anatomies and know how to handle unexpected situations during surgery.
Professional relationships with medical device companies can indicate a surgeon’s standing in the field. Dr. Dell’s consulting relationships with leading ophthalmic companies mean patients at Dell Laser Consultants benefit from cutting-edge technologies.
What Happens During Your Consultation With a LASIK Surgeon
Your first visit with a LASIK surgeon involves much more than just determining if you’re a candidate. This consultation establishes whether the surgeon’s approach aligns with your goals and whether you feel comfortable with them.
Medical History Review
The evaluation begins with a detailed medical history review. Your surgeon needs to know about any previous eye conditions, surgeries, or treatments.
They’ll ask about medications you take, as some can affect healing. You’ll discuss your current vision challenges and what you hope to achieve through vision correction.
Eye Exam
A comprehensive eye examination follows, using advanced diagnostic equipment to measure your prescription precisely, evaluate your corneal thickness and shape, assess your eye pressure, and check your overall eye health. These measurements help determine which vision correction procedure would work best for your specific anatomy.
Candidacy Discussion
The surgeon should explain your results clearly, walking you through what they found and what it means for your candidacy. They’ll discuss which procedure would be most appropriate for your eyes and why, explaining the benefits and any considerations specific to your situation.
How to Choose the Right Practice for Your LASIK Procedure
Finding the right surgeon involves more than checking credentials. The entire practice environment contributes to your experience and outcomes.
Visiting the facility during your LASIK consultation, before committing to surgery, is a great way to evaluate the practice. A well-equipped practice with modern technology in a clean, professional environment reflects the quality of care you’ll receive. The Dell Laser Consultants LASIK practice in Austin has advanced equipment and a staff trained in the latest protocols.
It’s also important to consider the support team surrounding your surgeon. From the initial consultation through post-operative care, you’ll interact with various team members.
Knowledgeable technicians conduct thorough measurements, counselors explain your options without pressure, and attentive staff address your concerns, all contributing to a positive experience.
Check whether the practice offers comprehensive follow-up care. Your relationship with your eye care team doesn’t end when you walk out of surgery. Regular follow-up appointments ensure your eyes are healing properly and your vision is stabilizing as expected.
The American Refractive Surgery Council notes an interesting statistic: eye doctors themselves choose vision correction surgery at rates five times higher than the general public. Many refractive surgeons have personally experienced the procedures they perform, giving them a firsthand understanding of patient concerns and recovery.
Taking the Next Step Toward Visual Freedom
If you’re considering LASIK or other vision correction options, schedule a consultation with experienced refractive surgeons who can evaluate your specific situation. At Dell Laser Consultants, the surgical team’s decades of combined experience in laser vision correction, access to the most advanced technologies, and commitment to individualized patient care position the practice to help you achieve your vision goals.
Contact Dell Laser Consultants in Austin, TX at 512-347-0255 for a free, no-obligation laser vision correction screening or to schedule a comprehensive consultation.
