Question:
Would you be more comfortable with a cautious surgeon
or an assuring one?
Answer:
I had cataract surgery a few years ago, and unfortunatley had *many*
complications. The end result is that I have very thick glasses and
still cannot see anywhere near 20/20, even in the one eye that still
works. Unfortunately this means that when it comes time to renew my
license it will be difficult.
I inform patients of the risks/benefits, tell them the pros/cons and
answer all their questions to the best of my ability. I tell them
THIS is your problem and THESE are the options (including doing
NOTHING). Then the patient makes their decision after being
completely and fully informed.
I never say, "You need to/should have (elective) cataract surgery", or
"You should have refractive surgery"*
That is IMHO asking for problem. If something bad happens, I do not
want the patient to be able to say, "YOU TOLD ME TO HAVE THIS
SURGERY!"
