The surgeon is going to determine your plan and manage any complications that may arise (hopefully none). A good laser is key, but doesn't run itself. Sometimes even with the best lasers flap management intraoperatively can be a little tricky, and you want a good surgeon handling that.

There are definitely big differences in what the newer laser platforms provide compared to the old ones: comfort level, SMILE options, etc. Options and treatment levels not possible in the past. We upgraded our laser about a year ago and there has definitely been an improvement in visual quality and patient satisfaction compared to what I had already considered fantastic outcomes previously.

You don't want to go to a "LASIK mill" because of a good discount on groupon, and you do not want to "save money" by choosing a physical microkeratome incision over a good femtosecond laser if given an option. That may cost less, but is definitely no longer the standard and has increased risk of complications.

Moran, Hoopes, and Waite Vision are all very good, credible locations. I have an obvious preference based on years of knowing a guy personally and observing his surgical behaviors. Plus, he advertises on Criddle's show and bleeds blue 🙂

Refractive surgery is a fantastic investment that costs more upfront, but pays off in the long run when it comes to total cost (glasses or contacts+solutions), visual quality, risk, and patient satisfaction. Huge fan.