How to Become a Laser Eye Surgeon

Laser surgeons are medical doctors who specialize in eye health and care.

Laser eye surgeons are medical doctors specializing in ophthalmology. Eye and vision care can vary from routine eye health to advanced laser surgery. Having the proper education is foremost in becoming a laser surgeon. Four years of college, four years of medical school and at least three years of residency are required.

Things You'll Need

• Bachelor's degree
• Medical degree
• Residency in ophthalmology

Instructions

Preparation for Medical School

1. Complete a bachelor's degree with the required prerequisites for medical school. Some degrees, like biology or chemistry, may contain all the prerequisites needed. However, no specific degree is required.

2. Volunteer in medical and related fields. Volunteer experience will increase your chance of acceptance to medical school.

3. Take the Medical College Admission Test. Typically, the MCAT is taken in the junior year of college.

4. Apply to an accredited medical school. Because of the competition it is wise to apply to multiple schools.

Medical School and Residency

1. Complete a medical degree. Your medical degree can be either a doctor of medicine (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO).

2. Apply for residency in ophthalmology. Often a certain grade level or an internship is necessary for acceptance.

3. Complete residency in ophthalmology. The residency program is usually three years and has 20 to 30 residents.

4. Take and pass the American Board of Ophthalmology's certification exam. Once you're successful, you can begin your practice.

5. Specialize in laser eye surgery by focusing your practice in that area.

Tips & Warnings

• The MCAT is a challenging exam. Many students find a prep course necessary to achieve a competitive score.

References

• Eye Care America: What is an Ophthalmologist?
• Mayo School of Graduate Medical Education: Ophthalmology Residency

Resources

• American Academy of Ophthalmology