Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is a widely performed refractive procedure designed to correct common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. This procedure uses an excimer laser to precisely reshape the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye, allowing light to focus properly onto the retina. Because LASIK involves altering the physical structure of the eye, it is classified as a specialized surgical procedure. Understanding the specific medical professional who performs the surgery and the larger support team is necessary.
Defining the LASIK Surgeon
The medical professional exclusively qualified to perform LASIK surgery is a highly trained physician known as an Ophthalmologist. An Ophthalmologist is a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) who has completed extensive education and residency training focused specifically on the medical and surgical care of the eyes and visual system. This medical degree distinguishes them from an Optometrist, who earns a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree and focuses on primary vision care and prescribing corrective lenses.
The training pathway for a LASIK surgeon is rigorous, beginning with four years of medical school, followed by a one-year general internship. The physician then completes at least three years of specialized residency training in Ophthalmology, focusing on surgical techniques and the management of various eye diseases.
Many LASIK specialists pursue further specialization by completing an additional one-to-two-year fellowship program focused on cornea and refractive surgery. This extended training provides in-depth experience with laser vision correction techniques.
Support Staff Roles Before and After Surgery
While the Ophthalmologist performs the laser portion of the surgery, the entire LASIK process relies on a coordinated team of eye care professionals. Optometrists play a significant role in the pre-operative and post-operative stages, often working in a co-management model with the surgeon. These clinicians conduct the initial comprehensive eye examination to determine if a patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure, including measuring the precise shape and thickness of the cornea and evaluating overall eye health.
During the pre-operative phase, the Optometrist or an Ophthalmic Technician manages necessary preparations. They educate the patient on the procedure, answer questions, and instruct on the use of pre-operative medications, such as antibiotic drops. On the day of surgery, nurses and technicians assist the surgeon by preparing the operating area and comforting the patient.
In the post-operative period, the support team monitors the patient’s recovery and healing. Optometrists often handle the regular follow-up appointments, which typically occur one day, one week, and one month after the procedure. They assess the healing of the corneal flap, check for complications like dry eyes or inflammation, and verify that the vision is improving as expected.
Vetting a Surgeon’s Qualifications
Verifying the credentials of a prospective LASIK surgeon is a practical step toward ensuring a successful outcome. The most reliable indicator of quality is Board Certification, typically through the American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO). This voluntary credential requires the surgeon to pass rigorous written and oral examinations, demonstrating a verified mastery of surgical skill and medical knowledge. Patients can verify a surgeon’s certification history directly through the ABO’s website.
Patients should also inquire about the surgeon’s specific experience, particularly the volume of LASIK procedures performed. A surgeon with a high volume of cases, often in the tens of thousands, demonstrates a depth of practical experience. Furthermore, a reputable surgeon should be transparent about their complication rates and be willing to discuss the specific technology they use, such as advanced wavefront-guided lasers, which enhance the precision of the correction.
A thorough vetting process also involves confirming the surgeon’s philosophy on patient selection. A responsible practice will screen out candidates who are not anatomically suited for the procedure. Patients should feel comfortable asking about fellowship training in refractive surgery, which signifies specialized, post-residency expertise in the delicate nature of the cornea.