Last month I discussed a few exciting aspects of the newly-approved excimer laser treatment for nearsightedness and astigmatism. What a pleasant thought. In reality, after several hundred thousand cases performed around the world in the last eight years and in 47 different countries, NO ONE has become blind. So, in a way, that consent form is somewhat reasurring, in its own morbid way.
Infection is probably the primary concern of doctors.
If it occurs, it is usually during the first 48-72 hours after surgery. The odds are 1 in 500 that you will have a problem with infection. By observing a few simple post-op rules and using your eyedrops as instructed, this risk is very low. Roughly 1 in 10 people describe their post-op experience as painful. Most will describe it as a scratchy nuisance.