LASIK risks & complications
An honest look at what can go wrong with lasik, how often, and how to protect yourself.
Every procedure carries risk. Most complications from lasik are uncommon, minor, and resolve with conservative management — but informed consent means understanding the full picture before you decide.
Documented risks for lasik
Dry eye
Common transient (peaks at 1 month). Persistent in 5–20% but usually mild
Untreated dry eye pre-op is the #1 risk factor
Halos, starbursts, glare
Common at 1–3 months; persistent in <5%
Larger pupils and higher prescriptions are risk factors
Under-/over-correction
5–10% require enhancement
Flap complications
Rare with experienced surgeons; SMILE eliminates flap risk
Ectasia (corneal weakening)
Rare; topography screening is essential pre-op
How to reduce your personal risk
- Choose a board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeon.
- Stop nicotine in any form for at least 4 weeks pre/post-op.
- Disclose every medication and supplement to your surgical team.
- Follow pre-op fasting and post-op activity restrictions exactly.
- Keep follow-up appointments — early detection means easy fixes.
By the numbers
700,000+
annual US LASIK procedures
96%
of patients achieve 20/20 or better with modern LASIK
5–10 yrs
before some patients consider enhancement
This page is general education, not medical advice. Risk estimates vary by patient factors, surgeon experience, and technique — discuss your specifics with a qualified surgeon.