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LASIK technology

The technology is improving at a rapid pace, but a large body of conclusive evidence on the chances of long-term complications is not yet in place. Also, there is a small chance of complications, such as slipped flap, corneal infection, haziness, halo or glare, amongst others. The procedure is irreversible.

A 2004 Wake Forest University study found that Lasik results are affected by heat and humidity, both during the procedure and in the two weeks preceding surgery.

The NHS National Institute for Clinical Excellence's December 2004 guidance on laser eye surgery found that evidence is weak for its effectiveness in treating severe short- or long-sightedness (only 26-36% had an uncorrected visual acuity of 20/20 or so); that 5% of cases had complications; and notes concerns about long-term safety of thinning the cornea.