Matthew Hecht, MD
Refractive Surgeon
Board Certified Ophthalmologist
Assistant Clinical Professor, UCLA

When you make a decision to surgically correct your vision, one of the biggest considerations is which surgeon to choose. In a large area such as southern California you may have several options available, so determining who is best qualified to correct your vision is very essential.

Dr. Matthew Hecht is a highly respected refractive surgeon specializing in the latest vision correction techniques. Dr. Hecht received his medical degree from the University of Minnesota, where he was awarded several honors and scholarships, including the Minnesota Medical Foundation Scholarship. Dr. Hecht completed an internship in Honolulu at the University of Hawaii and completed the residency program in ophthalmology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

After receiving additional training at the University of Southern California, Dr. Hecht was certified to perform procedures with the VISX laser. Dr. Hecht obtained certification to perform LASIK procedures in Toronto, while studying under Dr. Jeffrey Machat, a leading ophthalmologist. As part of his advanced training in LASIK procedures, Dr. Hecht continued training under the foremost experts in refractive surgery.

Here in Los Angeles, Dr. Hecht specializes in refractive surgery. In addition, he is committed to providing better vision for people in other parts of the world. As a fluent speaker in French and Spanish, he donates his talents to senior citizens and the needy in Central America.

LASIK - short for "laser in-situ keratomileusis"

LASIK has become the standard of care in refractive surgery and is used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. In this procedure, the surgeon creates a hinged corneal flap before the excimer laser is applied to vaporize a small amount of corneal surface. After the laser is used, the corneal flap is replaced, bonding almost instantly and without stitches. Because the surface of the eye is not disturbed, there is little post-operative discomfort, few complications and a quick recovery time.

There are three common types of Refractive Errors:

Myopia - (nearsightedness) is a refractive error that causes poor distance vision. Either the eye being too long can cause myopia or your cornea having too much focusing power, as a result the image focuses in front of the retina.

Hyperopia - (farsightedness) is the opposite of Myopia. The distant images are seen as clear but the objects up close appear blurry. An eye that is too short or a cornea that lacks the necessary refractive power to focus images on the retina causes this.

Astigmatism - is a condition that blurs and distorts near and far objects. A normal cornea is round with even curves. If you have astigmatism, your cornea is shaped more like the back of a spoon, curves more in spots and not in others. Light rays have more than one focal point and focus on different areas of the retina.

Hear what patients have to say about South Bay Laser Eye Surgery

"The procedure itself was quick and painless. The eye itself was never in pain, however I did fell some discomfort from the eye lid area. That discomfort is very minimal compared to the advantages of being able to see without contacts or glasses."

- Christine Feist

"I am so thrilled with my LASIK surgery!!! It has taken me back 25 years. Its been that long since I had the freedom to see without contacts or glasses. I can see better than before. I was back to normal, better than normal the next day.

I am amazed with how painless and quick the whole process was. Your staff is so helpful and friendly. They answered all my questions and more."

- Jackie Mills

"I can't believe how my life has changed after the LASIK surgery. The first thing I was used to doing in the morning was to reach for my glasses. Thanks to you Dr. Hecht and the South Bay Laser Eye Center I don't have to do it anymore!

I strongly recommend you and your team to all my friends that war glasses or contacts. You did a fabulous work on my eyes. A million thanks."

- Ana B. Rodriguez

"The staff was very accommodating and friendly. The warm reception helped to put me at ease. I was a little nervous at first, but they reassured me that everything would turn out fine.

The procedure went without any complications. I experienced no discomfort. The next day I was able to drive myself to the follow-up appointment.

Thank you Dr. Hecht for providing me with a new way of seeing things!"

- Arlene R. Rajkot

"I wanted to take a few minutes to thank you all for being so attentive and professional during my recent LASIK surgery.

Having worn glasses for about 15 years, it makes me feel like a different person again not having to wear them. I should have had this surgery much sooner."

- Carmen Ramos