Many of us have visited an optometrist for years, and there’s little question about what will happen behind that wall of frames we know all-too-well. But visiting an ophthalmologist to discuss St. Louis LASIK eye surgery or LASIK alternatives can be intimidating.
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors trained in medical procedures and eye health, and are also experts at refractive surgical procedures. Much like dentists and orthodontists, optometrists and ophthalmologists often work hand-in-hand to care for a range of vision and eye health needs. They are both professionals, but their areas of expertise are different.
So what can you expect when you visit an ophthalmologist to discuss LASIK in St. Louis?
While we can’t vouch for other experiences, at Brinton Vision in St. Louis, Missouri, Dr. Jason P. Brinton is internationally renowned for his expertise in LASIK and other refractive procedures, including SBK, EVO ICL, SMILE eye surgery, Kamra inlay, ASA, and RLE.
That’s a lot of acronyms, but the thing to know is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for vision problems, and Brinton Vision is one of only a handful of refractive surgery specialty centers in the United States that offers LASIK plus all of its six modern variations under one roof.
What happens when I walk in the door?
The most significant part of considering LASIK eye surgery or other vision correction procedures is making sure you are a good candidate, and that you are steered toward the procedure that is going to be the most effective and with the lowest level of risk for your unique eyes. The first step is a comprehensive Brinton Vision Ocular Analysis.
So what should you expect when you arrive?
Before your appointment:
You will be asked to refrain from wearing contacts (if you wear them) for a certain number of days prior to your appointment, depending on the type of contacts you wear. Your Brinton Vision Ocular Analysis will last approximately 90 minutes.
You can prepare for your appointment by writing down questions or concerns you may have. Expect to discuss the following at your laser eye surgery consultation:
- Your full health history. There are medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, that may make LASIK and other laser vision correction options not a good choice. Also, certain medications, such as Accutane, can affect the healing process.
- The outcome you can expect given your specific vision and circumstances. Dr. Brinton will answer all of your questions and help you understand the risks and benefits of LASIK eye surgery and other procedures.
- Any potential risks or post-surgery issues you should be aware of.
When you arrive:
- For starters, you’ll likely be surprised that Brinton Vision feels more like a day spa than a doctor’s office — or at least that’s the comment we often hear! You may also be surprised at the personalized experience. We are here for you, and that will be clear from the moment you are greeted at the door.
- You will meet one of our trained medical technicians who will escort you to our diagnostic suite. Here, you’ll see several impressive pieces of equipment. These measure your visual acuity and eyes in a number of different ways and give us a complete picture of every aspect of eyes and eye health. Our helpful staff will guide you through each test, explaining what is being measured and assessed as you go.
- Next, you’ll meet with Dr. Brinton or Dr. Poore and spend, on average, 30 minutes, discussing your results. There is never pressure, and you’ll get a candid assessment whether or not surgery is right for you. You’ll get realistic expectations based on your unique pair of eyes, and because of the thorough process, you can be sure the risks are minimized. If you decide that LASIK or any other refractive procedure is right for you, we’ll be happy to help. If not, we’re equally happy to be part of your informed decision. We can guide you toward payment plans, if you’d like, and address your concerns or fears.
LASIK eye surgery doesn’t need to be scary. Regardless of which provider you visit, be sure your surgeon takes the time to talk to you personally so he or she can learn about your unique vision needs and explain which procedure can best benefit you. After all, it’s a difference you’ll see for a lifetime.
Schedule your Brinton Vision Ocular Analysis to see if you are a candidate for LASIK in St. Louis today. Call 314.375.2020. Brinton Vision is located at 555 N. New Ballas Rd. in Creve Coeur. We look forward to walking with you on your journey toward visual freedom!
St. Louis LASIK surgeon Dr. Jason P. Brinton, MD is an internationally recognized specialist in the field of refractive surgery. He is a graduate of Harvard College, earned his medical doctorate from the Harvard Medical School, and is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. He has been inducted to America’s Top Ophthalmologists by the Consumer Research Council of America, Leading Physicians of the World by the International Association of Healthcare Professionals, and Top Doctors in America by Castle Connolly. In 2015, he received global recognition as the recipient of the Visian ICL Young Ophthalmologist Award in Barcelona, Spain, and in 2016 was named Ocular Surgery News’ Premier Surgeon 300 Innovators in Refractive Cataract Surgery. He is a dedicated husband, father of four beautiful children, and is passionate about his life, his work, and service to others.