The risks of laser vision correction have now reduced so considerately that the lifetime risk of contact lens wear is greater than the one-off risk of laser vision correction.
The evolution of technology combines with excellent surgical skills has resulted in a quantum leap in the safety and success of vision correction procedures. There is now plenty of long-term (25 years or more) scientific data supporting the use of laser vision correction, implantable contact lenses or refractive lens exchange surgery in appropriately selected individuals. This data shows the long-term safety as well as long-term stability of the surgery. If done appropriately, vision correction surgery should be of permanent benefit for the patient.