Laser surgery flourishes despite low-end woes.(Brief Article)

When Lasik Vision Corp., a flashy Canadian chain of laser eye treatment centers, opened its sumptuous Financial District clinic a year ago, it turned heads with its in-your-face storefront style.

Patients eager to lop a few dollars off Lasik Vision's already low-priced laser procedures could have their operation in full view of gawkers, their eyes magnified to watermelon proportions on a strategically placed television monitor.

While the company's approach leaned more toward fast-food chain than doctor's office, the company lured its share of patients. That is, until Lasik Vision abruptly declared bankruptcy last week, shutting the doors of its Sacramento Street digs and stranding scores of patients.

Formerly the largest laser eye treatment chain in Canada, Lasik Vision had …