Questions to ask your doctor

For more information on questions to ask your doctor please review article "Questions for your Eye Doctor".
Are the desired results I described realistic?
Where is the surgery performed? How long will the procedure take?
How much will my vision improve?
Is it realistic to expect 20/20 vision in my particular case?
Would another procedure, such as PRK, radial/ astigmatic keratotomy, or implantable contact lens work better for me?
Are there other procedures that I should consider to enhance the affects of this procedure?
What kind of anesthesia is used?
What is your experience in performing this procedure? (How long has he/she performed this procedure, and how many he/she has performed in the past year?)
What percentage of patients has had significant complications? (The physician should disclose this information to you.)
Will you repeat or correct the procedure if it does not meet agreed upon goals? And if the procedure must be repeated / corrected, will I be charged again? (The physician should provide you with his/her policy on this issue.)
May I see testimonials or outcomes statistics of recent patients? The physician should provide many photos of recent patients.
May I have the names and contact information for several recent LASIK patients? (Follow up to get first-hand information on the procedure and the surgeon.)
Could I observe the exact procedure I am considering before I decide to have the surgery? (Either on videotape or ask to view one in real life.)
What should I expect post-operatively, in terms of soreness, what to watch for, medication, bathing, and level of activity?
Who will be assisting during the surgery? What are their qualifications? (Does the ophthalmologist perform the entire surgery?)
Have you ever had your malpractice insurance coverage denied, revoked, or suspended?
Do you offer patient financing?