Refractive Surgery
Northwestern Medicine LASIK Physicians has been a leader in laser vision correction for over 20 years. In 2017, Northwestern Medicine opened a new, state-of-the-art Laser Vision Correction Center with a LASIK operating room, advanced imaging and dedicated LASIK exam rooms. In 2018, Northwestern Medicine became the first laser vision center in Illinois to acquire and use the iDesign Refractive Studio, which is the next-generation LASIK platform and the only system to use topography-integrated wavefront guided technology. The system generates a high-definition scan of the eye 25 times more precise than traditional methods used to measure and correct vision. This allows our surgeons to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism with a unique personalized treatment plan for each patient. Our surgeons perform all-laser, "bladeless" LASIK, as well as PRK, PTK and other refractive surgeries. Our experienced surgeons thoroughly evaluate each patient and determine if they are an appropriate candidate for laser vision correction. They use the most advanced technology to plan and deliver a customized treatment with the goal of delivering the optimal visual outcome.
Education
LASIK is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the world today. Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine’s Department of Ophthalmology has a standardized didactic and practical laser vision correction curriculum as part of the ophthalmology residency program. Residents have an option of pursuing advanced electives in refractive surgery. Our faculty are certified trainers on the femtosecond and VISX excimer lasers.
Research
Northwestern Medicine faculty have authored some of the most widely read text books and book chapters on laser vision correction. Our research focuses on using technology and big data to analyze and optimize visual outcomes on current laser vision correction platforms. Our faculty have been invited to give lectures on laser vision correction to other departments across the country, and our residents have participated in and presented findings of their refractive surgery research at various meetings. ere at Northwestern, our faculty feel that in order to continue to deliver the best outcomes for our patients, they must be at the forefront of research in the field.