How to Choose a LASIK Surgeon

If you have been wondering how to choose a LASIK surgeon, Elmquist Eye Group provides suggestions for finding an ophthalmologist who can help you achieve the best possible vision.

Yasaira Rodriguez, MD, is a board certified eye surgeon whose areas of expertise include refractive cataract surgery, upper eyelid surgery, LASIK and in-office procedures. She is a member of the American Board of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

Kate Wagner, OD, managing partner, and Nina Burt, OD, are both experienced board certified optometrists who provide pre- and post-op exams, testing, and follow-up care to our patients.

We have served Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and Southwest Florida since 1992 and provide a comprehensive range of eye care services for everyone in your family.

Technology Matters

If your goal is to reduce your dependency on contact lenses or glasses, LASIK is the most technologically advanced option.

LASIK is the abbreviation for “Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis.” The procedure can improve the focusing power of your eye by reshaping the cornea. This changes the way light rays enter your eye and improves the ability of your eyes to focus.

At Elmquist Eye Group, our preferred technique for laser vision correction is the state-of-the-art all-laser LASIK procedure, which alters the curvature of your cornea by means of cool laser beams instead of a surgical blade. We believe it offers our patients an unprecedented level of safety, comfort and precision.

The entire procedure takes 15-30 minutes and all-laser LASIK surgery is painless and quick.  Artificial tears and a good night’s sleep can alleviate any minor discomfort you might feel after surgery. Most people will be able to return to normal exercise routines, work, and driving within 24-48 hours.

Board Certification Matters

Although technology is important, your surgeon’s experience and skills as well as your suitability as a LASIK candidate will determine your surgical outcome and your overall satisfaction with the procedure. The degree of your refractive error, the size of your pupils, and the thickness of your cornea must all be evaluated to help you decide on the best procedure for your unique eyes.

For the best surgical results, it is important to verify that your surgeon is board certified via Certification Matters because there are doctors who claim to be board certified and are not. The site is monitored and operated by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

Next Steps

Once you have chosen your surgeon, a comprehensive evaluation of your eyes will be performed to determine your candidacy for the procedure. If you’ve been told you may be a poor candidate for LASIK surgery because of thin corneal tissue, flat corneas, or corneal irregularities or scars, an alternative called PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) may provide a safe and effective option.

Now that you know how to choose a LASIK surgeon, call Elmquist Eye Group at (239) 936-2020 to learn more about the procedure and recovery period. Or, call to schedule an appointment today.