Expert consensus on patient education for keratorefractive lenticule extraction (2026)

Keratorefractive lenticule extraction (KLEx) has now become one of the mainstream methods in laser corneal refractive surgery, with an increasing number of people receiving KLEx for the correction of refractive error. Perioperative patient education is a crucial aspect in ensuring surgical success and enhancing patient satisfaction. In 2022, after discussions among experts in the field of KLEx patient education, China’s first expert guidance on patient education in corneal refractive surgery, named ” Expert guidance on patient communication for femtosecond laser small incision lenticule extraction” was released to guide the implementation of perioperative patient education. However, significant advancements in surgical equipment, methods, and techniques in recent years have posed new challenges for patient selection and perioperative management, as well as for doctor-patient communication and education. Currently, the quality of patient education and communication before and after surgery varies across different clinics. Patients face difficulties in understanding surgical knowledge, leading to postoperative psychological expectations biases and even increased risks of postoperative complications. To better promote the application of new clinical technologies, ensure their effective dissemination, and enhance surgical safety and patient satisfaction, the Division of Refractive Surgery & Committee of Optometry Experts, Branch of Ophthalmology, China National Health Association, organized experts in relevant fields, based on the latest developments and research results nationally and internationally, to discuss the content of patient education for KLEx surgery again, and reached an updated version of the expert consensus on patient education for KLEx (2026), which will better assist clinical practice.