OMAHA, NE – January 08, 2026 – PRESSADVANTAGE –
Kugler Vision announced the publication of its new feature, “Dr. Lance Kugler: Omaha’s World College of Refractive Surgery Fellow | Elite LASIK Surgeon Credentials,” highlighting the rare distinction earned by founder and refractive surgeon Dr. Lance Kugler. The article explores how Fellowship certification from the World College of Refractive Surgery and Visual Sciences (WCRS) distinguishes Dr. Kugler, as well as Kugler Vision’s Dr. Drew Dickson, among ophthalmologists nationwide and reinforces the importance of independently verified expertise in surgical vision correction.
Fellowship status with the WCRS represents the highest tier of professional achievement in refractive surgery, a credential held by an exceptionally small percentage—estimated at under 3.33%—of refractive surgeons in the United States. The WCRS Fellowship is awarded through a rigorous peer-reviewed process that evaluates a surgeon’s case volume, outcomes, ethical standards, and mastery across a spectrum of refractive procedures including LASIK, PRK, SMILE, refractive lens exchange (RLE), and implantable collamer lenses (ICL). Dr. Kugler’s inclusion in the WCRS official directory confirms his certification through this international body dedicated to advancing surgical standards, education, and patient safety in refractive surgery.
According to the WCRS mission, its credentialing program establishes a global benchmark for quality in refractive surgery through structured education, clinical verification, and ethical oversight. Unlike general ophthalmology board certification—which measures overall eye care competence—the WCRS Fellowship focuses exclusively on refractive surgical expertise. Dr. Kugler’s dual credentials as both an American Board of Ophthalmology diplomate and a WCRS Fellow distinguish him among ophthalmologists who perform laser vision correction procedures.
The article explains that while more than 19,000 ophthalmologists currently practice in the United States, only a fraction have completed advanced surgical fellowships dedicated to refractive surgery. Much of the training outside WCRS involves short manufacturer-led courses rather than formal peer-reviewed education. By contrast, WCRS Fellows must demonstrate extensive procedural experience, pass oral examinations before an international panel of expert surgeons, and maintain ongoing participation in refractive-specific continuing education. This multilayered validation process provides measurable assurance of surgical competence for patients and professional peers alike.
Before founding Kugler Vision, Dr. Kugler completed a formal fellowship in cornea and refractive surgery at Wang Vision Institute/University of Tennessee and served as Director of Refractive Surgery at the University of Nebraska Medical Center from 2010 to 2020. During that time, he led surgical training programs for residents, conducted research, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals such as the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. His work as a clinical investigator for multiple FDA-monitored trials involving corneal crosslinking and advanced intraocular lens technologies continues to influence evolving standards in the field.
The WCRS Fellowship recognition comes amid growing awareness about the need for transparency in refractive surgery credentials. Patients often struggle to differentiate between marketing claims and verified expertise. The article emphasizes that WCRS certification delivers independent proof of a surgeon’s skill rather than self-reported experience or marketing-driven accolades. In procedures that permanently reshape the cornea, third-party verification of surgical ability carries critical implications for patient confidence.
Technological versatility represents another defining aspect of Dr. Kugler’s expertise. His certifications encompass multiple major laser platforms including the Zeiss VisuMax and MEL-80, Alcon Wavelight systems, and STAAR Visian ICL implantation, enabling fully customized treatment plans based on individual patient needs. This range of technical proficiency allows comprehensive procedure matching rather than reliance on a single laser or technique. The article notes that Dr. Kugler’s broad familiarity with both laser and lens-based procedures reflects the integrated approach championed by WCRS Fellows worldwide.
Dr. Kugler’s continued engagement in professional leadership and education underscores his commitment to advancing the field. He serves on the EyeWorld Refractive Surgery Editorial Board and frequently presents at national and international conferences. His executive education from the Kellogg School of Management’s Physician-CEO Program at Northwestern University further reflects a dedication to excellence in clinical operations, research integrity, and patient-centered outcomes.
In addition to formal credentials, community feedback provides real-world confirmation of Dr. Kugler’s clinical consistency. Kugler Vision maintains more than 1,300 verified Google reviews with an average rating of 5.0 stars—one of the highest satisfaction records among vision correction practices in the Midwest. The article connects these outcomes to the discipline and accountability standards inherent in the WCRS Fellowship, demonstrating how peer-validated skill translates into patient trust and measurable success rates.
Dr. Kugler stated, “The World College of Refractive Surgery Fellowship represents a global commitment to quality and integrity in our specialty. Independent peer review ensures patients receive care from surgeons whose expertise has been objectively verified.”
Kugler Vision’s release of “Dr. Lance Kugler: Omaha’s World College of Refractive Surgery Fellow | Elite LASIK Surgeon Credentials” offers both patients and journalists an evidence-based look into how WCRS certification elevates the standard of refractive care. The recognition places Nebraska among a small number of states with practicing WCRS Fellows—two of whom are affiliated with Kugler Vision—bringing internationally recognized expertise to the region.
For media inquiries or to read the full article, visit Kugler Vision. Additional information about the World College of Refractive Surgery and Visual Sciences is available through the official WCRS directory.
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For more information about Kugler Vision, contact the company here:
Kugler Vision
Kugler Vision
402.558.2211
info@kuglervision.com
17838 Burke Street, Suite 100, Omaha, NE 68118
