
A Member of the University of Maryland Medical System | In Partnership with the University of Maryland School of Medicine
I chose the University Laser Vision Center because I wanted skilled ophthalmologists. I wanted to be cared for by people who knew about all facets of eye care and who weren't only trained to perform the LASIK procedure. But it wasn't an automatic decision for me to have it done here because I work here [she's a social worker in the psychiatry department]. I did a fair amount of reading about and researching other facilities.
After meeting everyone at the Laser Vision Center my mind was made up. I liked the way I was treated. They explained everything about the procedure to me, including the risks. I appreciated their honesty. It wasn't like they were trying to sell me on the operation.
My eyes were really horrible before the LASIK. I had worn glasses since I was about 6 or 7. I honestly can't even remember what it was like to not wear glasses. I used to juggle my regular glasses, my contact lenses and my prescription sunglasses before I went anywhere. Now, I feel like a normal person. I don't have to bother with all of that.
The results have just been unbelievable. There is such a huge difference. I have also had terrific follow-up care, unlike people I know who've had it done at other places. They complain that they haven't gotten much in the way of that.
I would never tell anyone else that LASIK is the right decision for them, because there are risks involved and nothing is guaranteed. But I will say that if a person wants to have it done, then they should consider having it done at the University of Maryland. They really have a high regard for their patients here and it shows.
I had astigmatism and had to wear glasses for years. Because of the way my eye curved, I wasn't able to wear contact lenses. They would always tear and it would be very uncomfortable.
I had been familiar with LASIK for some time. My brother had it done about four years ago and he was pleased with the results. Earlier this year (2001), I felt the time was right, so I started doing research on the Internet. After a thorough search, I chose University Laser Vision Center and had LASIK done in May.
I didn't want to go anywhere that was like a LASIK factory, where that's all they did. Quite frankly, I wanted to go somewhere that had broad ophthalmologic experience. In case something went wrong, I wanted to know that my doctor would know what to do.
The staff at the University of Maryland did an excellent job at preparing me for the procedure. They gave me plenty of information about what was going to happen, so there were no surprises.
The procedure only took about a half hour. There was a little blurriness on the day of the procedure, but my vision was completely normal by the next day. I haven't worn glasses since.
I was very pleased with the staff at the University Laser Vision Center. All around, they did an excellent job. I have already recommended their services to other people considering the procedure.