I've once again started to research Lasik and am looking for any recommendations on doctors in the Tampa Bay area. (This includes Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Brandon.) I'm currently researching 2 doctors...Dr. Stephen Updegraff and Dr. Nancy Tanchel. Would you recommend either of these doctors or any other in the area. (My eyes are -8.) Thanks for any recommendations you might have!!!!

Amy

I have heard of the doctors you have mentioned, but I am not familiar with their LASIK results. I am familiar with Dr. Robert Kantor, who is an excellent LASIK surgeon. He is located in Sarasota, FL

Best of luck

Bill Trattler, MD
Miami, FL

I have researched LASIK for the last 6 months, and live in Largo, FL. Doctors you can look up in the phone book, in addition to who you have mentioned are Dr. Behler, Dr. Weinstock, and Dr. Johnson.

I have had a consult with Dr. Updegraff, and believe him to be the best in the area. He has performed well over 5000 procedures, and uses the Visx Star S2 with the 3.1 software. Price is $2250 / eye.

I have chosen to travel to Canada because of my large pupils (7mm). The LaserScan LSX laser performs ablations out to 9mm. Additionally, the price is only $599 Canadian ($400 US dollars). For these reasons, I have choosen to travel. The surgeon there has performed about 1500 surgeries.

If you wish, email me directly, and we can talk some more.

Miguel

Although it may be cheaper to fly to other countries or even to fly to other parts of the U.S., in general it is best to have your laser surgery closer to home. LASIK is a safe procedure, but there are risks. It is possible to get an infection, flap complication, or have other problems. If fsomeone has any problems after LASIK, they would be able to see their surgeon right away and get the problem taken care of. However, if one travels long distances, this can cause some major problems. It is not very easy (nor cheap) to book a flight and fly to see your surgeon to fix a problem. Also, there is a small chance that one owuld be over or undercorrected after LASIK, and want an enhancement. This would require another trip, plus again the risks of infection and flap problems could potentially manifest days to weeks after.
If your surgery goes perfectly (like everyone, including the doctor hopes for and expects), then traveling may work out. However, if there is a post-operative problem, then major difficulties with obtaining appopriate post-operative care can arise.

I concur with Dr. Trattler's comments. Why take the chance?

Dr. Trattler,

Let me give you some numbers here.

Lasik in the US (St. Pete at least) = $2250 per eye.

Lasik in Canada = $400 per eye = $800
$330 for a plane ticket
$60 for a hotel for 4 nights = $240
Meals @ $30 / day = $120
Cab fare = $50
Miscellaneous = $50
Total = $1590

THIS IS $3000 LESS THAN LASIK IN THE US!!!

Even if I did need an enhancement, I'm looking at a significantly less money than having surgery done here.

All pre and post op work will be done by my optemetrist, one who I feel 100% comfortable with.

The laser used treats up to a 9mm ablation zone, which is appealing to me because I have 7mm pupils in dim light. (This laser is the LaserScan LSX, due to be approved by the FDA within the next 60 days).

Part of the difference in price because of the charges doctors in the US pass on to patients, royalty fees charged by some of the larger laser manufacturers such as Visx.

Tell me, how can I lose, if the doctor I have chosen is experienced (1500 procedures), has used both lasers (Visx Star S2 with the 3.1 software and the LaserScan LSX), has no agenda with either manufacturers, and is extremely happy with the ablation profiles and results of each?

I look forward to your response, Dr. Trattler.

I am just curious, how much are you paying your
optomotrist for post op care and how much is an
unrestricted airfare to canada if you have to
return without a 7 or 14 day prior purchase? If
your pupil is very large there may be a reason to
consider the other laser but if you can have the
surgery done locally I agree with Dr Trattler it
is better to do it close to home.
Leonard Friedman MD Washington, DC

Dr. Friedman,

My optometrist is a family friend, and we have not yet discussed fees for pre and post op care.

Airfare to Canada and back is $330. I forsee any flap complications being handled by a local LASIK specialist. I am looking into those fees now, but hopefully, no complications will arise.

I would very much prefer to have the procedure done locally, but unfortunately, am not able for financial reasons.

Thanks for bringing up some good points, Dr. Friedman.