CINCINNATI--LCA-Vision Inc. (Nasdaq:LCAV), a provider of laser vision correction services under the LasikPlus brand, announced the appointment of Craig Joffe, LCA-Vision's current chief operating officer and general counsel, to the interim position of chief executive officer. The appointment is effective as of March 1, 2006, when company founder Stephen Joffe steps down as chief executive officer. Stephen Joffe will remain chairman of the LCA-Vision board of directors and will assist in the orderly transition of CEO responsibilities, according to a statement by the company.

The nominating and governance committee of the board of directors will initiate a search for a new chief executive officer, LCA-Vision said. Craig Joffe will be considered a candidate for permanent appointment as chief executive officer.