What are the risks of femtosecond laser surgery?

Generally, femtosecond laser surgery is safe when performed properly. However, improper procedures may lead to complications such as postoperative dry eye syndrome, refractive regression, corneal-related complications, visual quality abnormalities, and ocular infections. Most of these risks are associated with inadequate preoperative evaluation or poor postoperative care, and the overall incidence rate is low. If persistent eye pain, sudden vision loss, or abnormal discharge occurs after surgery, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Postoperative Dry Eye Syndrome: The surgery may damage corneal nerve endings, leading to reduced or uneven tear secretion, causing symptoms such as dryness, foreign body sensation, and burning. These symptoms usually gradually improve within 3–6 months after surgery, although they may persist in a minority of individuals.

2. Refractive Regression: Vision may gradually decline over time after surgery. This may be related to tissue proliferation during corneal healing, excessively high preoperative myopia, or improper use of eyes post-surgery. In severe cases, secondary correction may be required.

3. Corneal-Related Complications: These include corneal flap displacement, corneal edema, and corneal thinning, mostly caused by improper surgical technique, external trauma after surgery, or abnormal corneal healing, potentially affecting visual stability.

4. Visual Quality Abnormalities: Some patients may experience night glare, halos around lights, or blurred vision after surgery, which are related to the size and shape of the optical zone created during corneal ablation. Most individuals gradually adapt over time.

5. Ocular Infection: Poor eye hygiene after surgery may lead to infections such as conjunctivitis or keratitis, manifesting as eye pain, redness, swelling, and increased discharge. With timely treatment, serious long-term consequences are usually avoidable.

After surgery, it is essential to strictly follow medical instructions for using artificial tears and anti-inflammatory medications, avoid prolonged eye use and exposure to intense light, refrain from rubbing the eyes or swimming, maintain good eye hygiene, and attend regular follow-up visits to monitor corneal recovery.