Lobanoff, Mark

Photo by Tony Nelson

Dr. Mark Lobanoff dreamed about practicing in the most advanced eye center in the United States. It didn’t exist in Minnesota, so he decided to build it himself. His 25 years in practice have all been leading up to November 1, 2021—the grand opening of OVO LASIK + LENS in St. Louis Park.

“OVO will be a world-class LASIK and lens surgery clinic,” says Dr. Lobanoff. “Our team of staff and doctors will be amongst the most experienced within the eye industry, and committed to providing a unique and exceptional experience to each patient who walks through our doors. I wanted to make it a hub for advanced eye surgery—we expect eye surgeons to fly in from across the country to train here.”

Dr. Lobanoff has worked his entire career to become one of the top LASIK surgeons in the world. He is actively involved in research, FDA studies, and teaching and mentoring other refractive surgeons worldwide. He developed a revolutionary software known as Phorcides, which helps surgeons plan the most accurate topography-guided LASIK treatment. The software is now used by surgeons across the globe to get the best visual results for patients. He is also fellowship-trained in LASIK. Most surgeons only complete a two-day course in LASIK, while the fellowship is a year-long program.

“I dedicated a year of my life to make sure there’s no higher level of expertise a surgeon could obtain,” he says. An ophthalmologist by training, he knew his passion was in refractive eye surgery, so he also undertook a fellowship in Cornea and Refractive Surgery after his residency. “I chose this field because it is absolutely miraculous,” he says. “In a matter of minutes, you can improve a patient’s eyesight. This makes a massive positive impact on that patient every moment of their life. It’s an honor and a privilege to be able to do the work I do.”

OVO is conveniently located off Interstate 394 and Louisiana Avenue, to provide easy access for patients across the metro. “I want every patient to have access to the best vision possible,” says Lobanoff. “I want to help every eye fulfill its greatest potential.”