This page was designed by attorneys to better prepare you to assess the benefits of the refractive surgery procedure being considered, and compare those numerous benefits with the risks, however small, of having this elective procedure.  Prior to the planned procedure, you will be given this consent, you will be informed about the risks of the procedure during a frank discussion with Dr Liegner, and you will have an opportunity to discuss this topic directly with him.  Your participation in these discussions will be helpful for both your understandings of the procedure and your expectations after the procedure.

Every Consent is available for downloading to view and print in Word format. Just click on a Consent description, and when prompted, either view it or save it to disk.

This information is being provided to you so that you can make an informed decision about the use of a device known as a microkeratome, combined with the use of a device known as an excimer laser, to perform LASIK.  LASIK is one of a number of alternatives for correcting nearsightedness.  In LASIK, the microkeratome is used to shave the cornea to create a flap.  The flap then is opened like the page of a book to expose tissue just below the cornea's surface.  Next, the excimer laser is used to remove ultra-thin layers from the cornea to reshape it to reduce your refractive error. Finally, the flap is returned to its original position, without sutures.

LASIK is an elective procedure: There is no emergency condition or other reason that requires or demands that you have it performed. You could continue wearing contact lenses or glasses and have adequate visual acuity. This procedure, like all surgery, presents some risks, many of which are listed below. You should also understand that there may be other risks not known to your doctor, which may become known later. Despite the best of care, complications and side effects may occur; should this happen in your case, the result might be affected even to the extent of making your vision worse.

This information must be reviewed so you can make an informed decision regarding Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) surgery to reduce or eliminate your refractive error. Only you and your doctor can determine if you should have PRK surgery based upon your own visual needs and medical considerations. Any questions you have regarding PRK or other alternative therapies for your case should be directed to your doctor.

These consents are for very specific and less frequently performed alternatives to LASIK or PRK.  Based on your clinical needs and the procedural expectations, these may be the techniques used to accomplish your goals as they relate to your eyes.