Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is a surgical procedure that uses a laser to permanently reshape the cornea. It corrects refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, aiming to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. This precise operation is restricted exclusively to a medical doctor who has undergone years of specialized surgical training: an ophthalmologist.
The Surgeon: The Ophthalmologist’s Role
The physician who performs LASIK surgery is an ophthalmologist, a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathy (DO) specializing in the medical and surgical care of the eye. Training includes four years of medical school, a one-year internship, and at least three years of residency in ophthalmology. This extensive training grants them the authority to perform intricate surgeries like LASIK, cataract removal, and glaucoma procedures.
Many LASIK surgeons pursue additional training through a one- to two-year fellowship, often specializing in corneal and refractive surgery. This subspecialty focuses on the diseases and surgical correction of the cornea, the structure LASIK reshapes. This specialized focus ensures expertise in using the excimer and femtosecond lasers involved in the procedure. Surgeons must be licensed by a state medical board and are often certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. The use of advanced technology, such as wavefront-guided systems, is a standard part of their surgical planning.
Defining the Eye Care Team
Understanding the roles of different eye care professionals prevents confusion. An ophthalmologist is a physician who can diagnose and treat all eye diseases, prescribe corrective lenses, and perform surgery. Their medical background allows them to address underlying health issues that may affect the eyes.
In contrast, an optometrist holds a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and provides primary vision care, including routine eye exams, prescribing glasses and contact lenses, and managing non-surgical eye diseases. While they are doctors, they are not medical doctors and do not perform surgery. The third professional is the optician, a technician trained to design, verify, and fit eyeglass frames and lenses based on prescriptions. Opticians do not diagnose or treat eye conditions.
The Pre- and Post-Operative Process
The patient’s LASIK journey involves multiple professionals, though only the ophthalmologist performs the surgery. The process starts with a comprehensive pre-operative screening, frequently conducted by an optometrist or the diagnostic team. This initial evaluation measures corneal thickness, refractive error, and overall eye health to determine candidacy.
The final determination of suitability and the detailed surgical plan, however, rests with the ophthalmologist, who examines the data and performs a final consultation. Following the procedure, the immediate post-operative care, including the first 24- to 48-hour follow-up, is typically handled by the operating surgeon or their specialized team. This monitoring ensures the corneal flap is stable and checks for early complications.
For subsequent routine follow-up checks, many patients participate in a collaborative care model known as co-management. This allows the patient to return to their local optometrist for ongoing monitoring after the initial healing period has passed. The optometrist communicates findings back to the surgeon, ensuring continuity of care and that the patient’s recovery remains on track.