Informed consent in refractive surgery.

The informed consent process represents a key component in providing the highest quality of care for our patients and minimizing liability risk. Patients undergoing refractive surgery have high expectations for an excellent outcome and may become easily dissatisfied and upset if this is not achieved. Careful attention by the surgeon and supporting staff to educate the patient in a thorough and supportive fashion is paramount to this process. Breakdown in communication between physicians and patients combined with a poor outcome and feelings of mistrust often leads patients to consider malpractice litigation. The importance of understanding the key components and principles of the informed consent process cannot be over-emphasized and are presented in detail in this review.