If you are just starting to look into Houston LASIK surgery, you might be overwhelmed with where to start and how to choose a LASIK surgeon. Many prospective patients today are turning to the internet as a vast source of information on doctors and their services. A great place to start is by looking at online patient reviews for the doctors you are considering.
One of the first places to look for this kind of material would be the website of each surgeon. Here is where they may post their association with various local groups, including consumer monitoring agencies and directory sites where former patients may share reviews. While on the surgeon’s website is also a great time to read up on the surgeon’s qualifications and the LASIK technology the practice uses.
Where to Look for LASIK Surgeon Reviews
One of the best ways to find a local surgeon is to use a search engine such as Google or Yahoo, or a directory site like Yelp.com. When the clients put in their specific location (such as searching Houston LASIK surgeon), they should be able to pull up a list of nearby doctors who offer laser eye surgery.
Along with their office location, contact information for these doctors should be readily available through such a search. Usually, this is also where the potential patient will find online testimonials from previous patients. This may help them narrow down this list of potential matches there in Houston before they even pick up the phone.
Knowing What to Look For
Before potential patients head to these review sites, it is helpful to consider what types of things to look for in a surgeon. The traits of a great LASIK doctor will certainly include certification but also regular updating on their procedures and technology. If they stay up-to-date with the latest technology, they will be able to serve their clients more effectively.
Additionally, consider how patients felt they were treated by both the surgeon and support staff. Were wait times long? Did they feel rushed? A good surgeon will take the time to make you feel comfortable and understand the procedure.
Other things they will need to pay attention to in these reviews are the attitude of the staff, their communication quality and how comfortable the patient felt while in their care. When a Houston LASIK office does this effectively, then those reviews are going to be stronger, encouraging repeat business.
How To Read Negative Reviews
Many doctors may have great reviews with the occasional negative review, while others might have a lot of negative reviews with the occasional positive review. It’s important to realize that the internet is a public forum for anyone to use, even those with less-than-great intentions.
If you’ve found a doctor you think might be suitable who has one or two bad reviews among many great ones, consider what the negative reviewers are saying and whether the doctor’s office has taken the time to respond to that person’s concerns. While online reviews can be a great resource, they should not be the ONLY deciding factor in choosing a Houston LASIK surgeon. Evaluating the practice in person during a LASIK consultation is an imperative step before making a decision. During a LASIK consultation, you will be able to learn about the practice’s doctors, their qualifications and experience, the LASIK technology, and get an overall feel of your comfort level with the practice and its staff.
When you are ready to schedule a free LASIK consultation, call 713-526-3937 to make an appointment with the experienced LASIK surgeons at Berkeley Eye Center!