By reshaping the cornea without the creation of a stromal flap, excimer laser corneal surface ablation eliminates flap-related complications and avoids the risk of ectasia that may occur after laser assisted in situ keratomileusis(LASIK). Post-operative pain is one of the most significant disadvantages of surface ablation and thus the management of pain and discomfort following surface ablation is of great importance. We summarize mechanism of corneal pain and current approaches to pain management after surface ablation.