While reading the benefits of the laser procedure, you must also understand the risks. On rare occasions the eye does not respond fully to the laser, hence an enhancement is required. This time, though, the treatment is simpler, as it just involves lifting the flap and re-applying the laser.

Laser treatment might cause astigmatism when the laser beam used is irregular. Having proper laser testing prior to the surgery could prevent this risk.

Reapplying the laser could treat under-correction, if any. But eyeglasses or the contact lens are the only options available for over-correction.

When the laser beam is not aimed properly, it will result in halos, glaring, double vision and nighttime vision problems. Normally these problems disappear within 3 months. But very rarely these become a permanent problem and keep you away from driving.

Eyes becoming dry immediately after the surgery is common, which is normally treated with eye-drops to keep the eyes lubricated. But some patients experience the permanent dry eye in which case the eye-drops also become permanent until another suitable surgical procedure is identified.

The cells of the lower cornea migrate under the corneal cap. The surgeon must lift the cap and remove the cells. If untreated, vision is impaired.

Very rarely wrinkles are formed in the flap that can potentially reduce visual acuity. The surgeon must lift the corneal flap and smooth the wrinkles.

Extreme sensitivity to light can last a few days or a week after surgery.

There is a very rare chance for an eye to catch infection, less than 1 in 500 chance, but can happen. Almost all the infections are treatable using the antibiotics.

The primary aim of the laser surgery is to reshape the eye to get the maximum focus, which might result in, not being able to wear the contact lens. If that happens, then corrective glasses must be worn.