Risks

Serious corneal infection is very rare because of the use of antibiotics during the first week.        

Very, very rare complication when the flap is made

Uncommon complication in which cells grow under the flap.  If non-progressive, they are left alone.  If progressive the flap is picked up and the tissue is cleaned.  Rarely a permanent problem.

Very, very rare complication

Rare complication which if it occurs rarely interferes with vision

Common (5%) complication which usually does not cause any decrease in vision.  If vision is compromised the flap can be picked up and "ironed flat"

Uncommon, non-infectious (sterile) inflammation of unknown cause which resolves with the aggressive use of steriod drops.  Not a long term problem if caught early and aggressively treated.

Most common complication.  Thought to be due to cutting of corneal nerves during the creation of the flap.  Usually present during the first week.  May be present after the first month, almost, always resolved by 6 mos. when the corneal nerves have completely regenerated.  Treatment consists of copious use of non-preserved artificial tears (e.g. Thera-tears).  In difficult cases a punctal plug is helpful.  

Distortion in the curvature of cornea.  This is a rare complication.  Time usually corrects it unless caused by micro-striae in which case the flap needs to be picked up and re-laid.

Common in the first few months.  Usually disappears with healing.  May be due to the area of laser treatment being smaller than the pupil at night.  Can be significantly reduced with spot lasers which smooth the edge of treatment vs non-treatment. (More common with blue eyed patients with significant myopia.  Usually present with their contact lenses)

The prescription is not perfect.  Remember, all calculations are based upon the normal person.  Each person may be slightly different.  If the LASIK result is off a redo called an enhancement is available. See enhancements click here.  Relatively common.Consumer Reports - June 2001  pp 10-15.