The Best Laser Eye Clinic – A Guide on How to Choose

There are many important aspects to consider when choosing where to have laser eye surgery or refractive surgery.

Whether you are long-sighted, short-sighted, astigmatic, wear glasses for reading (presbyopic) or have cataracts; you should consider these important points to help you make the best possible choice for you and your vision!

Open & Honest / Did you Feel Heard?

This is a big one for us and for most people. How did you feel? Did you like the staff? Did you feel heard when discussing your history and issues? Did you feel that the staff were invested in your outcome and best possible treatment plan?

At Insight Eye Clinic, the patient’s journey has always been prioritised. Through getting to know and understand the patient, we are able to customise their vision outcome to ensure their lifestyle is catered for. Not everyone’s needs are the same and it is up to us to pay close attention and really tailor the treatment outcome.

We remain open and honest about every step and possible complication (if any additional risks are present).  Not only is your own medical history extremely important, your family medical history is too. The patients commitment to their well engineered journey pays off with our ongoing commitment to their needs and outcomes.

Most of our patients come through word of mouth. We are proud to offer such a wonderful easy experience to our patients.

Reviews & Recommendations

What do people have to say about that clinic? For many years, surgical clinics were not allowed to request/receive online reviews. The Medical Board of Australia: AHPRA have had strict guidelines in place prohibiting medical practitioners from using or requesting patient testimonials.

In 2022, the guidelines slightly changed to state that testimonials not directly related to the ‘regulated health service’ are allowed.  Although this is a difficult restriction to have in place as everyone relies heavily on reviews, there are still several ways to see reviews left on many different platforms and we are grateful that people have had such great experiences that they wish to share them.

Surgeon

How many procedures has the surgeon performed? What are their success rates and what experience do they have? Do you feel confident upon meeting them?  A lot of people seeking out information are under the impression that laser eye surgery and refractive surgery is all done by machine.  They don’t realise that without an experienced, knowledgeable surgeon; human error is still a very large possibility.

Technology

Very important that you seek out a clinic and surgeon that offer the most up to date technology. Why wouldn’t you want the best for your eyes?  When it comes to laser surgery in particular, advancements are being made often. Currently, there are 3 generations of laser eye surgery with the most recent 3rd generation being: SMILE.

A good clinic should also remain knowledgeable with advancements in diagnostic equipment. You cannot ensure that surgical results are as accurate as they possibly can be without having equipment to test every topographical corneal nuance.

Aftercare

Ensure that the clinic you choose is committed to looking after you throughout your laser eye surgery journey and during your post-operative months. Check what their aftercare initiative includes as this can mean the difference between a good and a great clinic. Great clinics/surgeons will stand by their results through offering a comprehensive follow up package that include post-operative appointments at the most crucial stages. Day 1 post-op, week 1, month 1, month 3 and month 6.

Cleanliness

Does the clinic appear clean and tidy? A priority for any reputable clinic will be to maintain a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene.

Cost

Is the cost of aftercare included in the quoted price? It should be.  One final figure should be given to you at your appointment with no hidden fees.  Be aware that some places have extra hospital fees or follow up costs.  Make yourself aware of this before you get an unpleasant surprise when it’s too late.

As is with most cases; you get what you pay for.  Do NOT be tempted by slash down prices.  If a clinic is a great deal cheaper from other clinics… they are usually cutting something somewhere and your eyes deserve the best!