Dr. Randleman received his BA degree from Columbia University in New York City. He earned his MD degree from Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, where he was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. He completed his residency training at Emory University, serving as Chief Resident in his final year. He then completed a fellowship in Cornea/External disease and refractive surgery at Emory University.
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.
If you are considering refractive surgery, it
is imperative that you compare all the different variables that go into your
surgery. The overall success of your procedure will depend on the type of
surgery you are considering, the type of instruments or lasers that are used for
that particular surgery, and the level of experience of your surgeon. You should
not base your decision solely on how much the procedure costs, and you should
compare different eye centers and eye doctors before coming to a decision.
Refractive surgery is permanent and will affect your vision for the rest of your
life, so you need to carefully consider all of your options. The following are
some specific things for you to consider:
1. Beware of "guarantees." Be cautious
of eye centers that advertise guarantees on refractive surgeries, including
"lifetime" guarantees, "20/20 or free," or "perfect vision." Remember that there
are never any guarantees with surgery.
2. Know your surgeon. Make sure that the
surgeon you choose has appropriate training and a good reputation in the
community. You should ask your eye doctor to discuss his or her outcomes and
compare them to the results of the studies that are printed in the device
manufacturer's handbook. It is also important to know that your surgeon will be
available to you after surgery should you develop a complication that requires
management.
3. Know your surgical center. It is equally important to make sure
that the center where you have your surgery is equipped with the latest
technology, knowledgeable staff, and has a good reputation in the community.
4. Become an educated consumer. Because this is an important decision, you should
read as much information as possible. Ask your eye doctor to provide you with
the patient education booklet from the device manufacturer. It is also important
to have an in-depth discussion about the most appropriate procedure for your
eyes, as this may vary from individual to individual.