Laser eye surgery comes at a high cost, and this is certainly a big factor for many people when choosing a laser eye practitioner. However, while finding an affordable vision clinic is important the biggest influence in your decision should be the ability and skill of the surgeon. Opting for a surgeon purely based on cost cutting may bring unsatisfactory results or, in the worst case scenario, lose you your sight.

The importance of finding a good surgeon

Only a minority of patients achieve true 20/20 vision, although most patients will experience a significant improvement in their vision which allows them to function on a daily basis without either contact lenses or glasses. However, there are also plenty patients who still require use of glasses after surgery despite an overall improvement in their sight.

There are several reasons for this. Firstly, if the procedure is not performed meticulously then over or under correction of the vision can occur. Secondly, it is common for laser eye surgery patients to develop very poor night vision and also see 'halo' effects appearing around lights. This will necessitate the use of glasses in low-level light conditions, especially when driving. Lastly, patients with extremely poor vision may be unsuitable candidates for surgery at all, as achieving 'perfect' vision may be implausible. While the nature of laser eye treatment means that the risk of these side effects or problems can never be eradicated, however skilled the surgeon, a good surgeon will vastly improve the chances of achieving a satisfactory outcome.

Another reason why it is imperative to find a reputable and highly skilled surgeon is that the procedure is not without its risks. Lasik is considered the most risky form of laser eye surgery, but is also the most popular due to its quick recovery time. In Lasik, a small incision needs to be made in the cornea to allow laser treatment to take place. If due care is not take, the flap may become detached. If the flap is also damaged, it might be impossible to reattach it to the eye. While improbable, full or partial vision loss can result from surgery. The likelihood of complications arising diminishes if you are in the hands of a highly qualified and experienced laser eye practitioner.

How to find a reputable surgeon

Your first step in finding a good surgeon should be to first find a reputable clinic. Be wary of vision clinics making outrageous claims such as '20/20 vision guaranteed' or 'perfect vision or your money back'. Before finding a clinic, research what can realistically expected from the laser eye surgery. If a clinic is making promises that they cannot guarantee delivery on, they may not be a good choice for your surgery. The best clinic is one which is honest about the potential results of laser eye treatment, both good and bad.

Compare as many clinics as possible. This does not just include the cost, although that is still a consideration for most people. Equipment can vary from clinic to clinic. Ideally, you should opt for surgery somewhere which provides the most up to date procedures and uses FDA approved equipment.

Ask your surgeon about his qualifications and training. It is also prudent to ask how many procedures he has carried out, particularly in the type of laser eye treatment you have opted for (for example Lasik or PRK). A good surgeon will be very thorough when discussing the procedure and will outline the potential risks, the side effects and what results you can realistically expect.

To locate a clinic or surgeon try searching the internet or asking your optician for a referral. American patients may also wish to visit American Academy of Ophthalmology's website.