Here are some experts for consumers to consult before undergoing laser eye surgery:

Food and Drug Administration, www.fda.gov/cdrh/LASIK. The federal agency that approves lasers has a wealth of up-to-date, easy-to-understand information about vision correction. The site also features a pre-surgery checklist, tips on finding a surgeon and other factors to consider.

Council for Refractive Surgery Quality Assurance, www.usaeyes.org, a nonprofit group founded by a health-care consultant, has extensive online resources, including "50 Tough Questions for Your Lasik Doctor." 8543 Everglades Drive, Sacramento, CA 95826. 800-872-3937 (800-USA-EYES).

American Academy of Ophthalmology, www.aao.org, features a physician locator and straightforward information about common vision problems. Box 7424, San Francisco, CA 94120. 415-561-8500.