What are the risks to PRK laser eye surgery?

All laser eye surgery carries risks although these are very small. PRK is a safe procedure and one that has been carried out on countless numbers of patients. These patients have been very happy with the results.

However there are complications although these are very rare. It is as well to be informed about these when considering whether to have laser eye treatment or not.

These risks included:

  • Dry eyes: this is very common with PRK patients although your surgeon will prescribe eye drops to lubricate your eyes.

  • Infection: you will be given antibiotics to prevent any post-surgery infection.

  • Decreased night vision: some patients find that their night vision has worsened although their day time vision improves. Avoid driving at night during this time.

  • Blurred vision, glare and ‘halos’: these usually disappear after 6 months. The extent of any of these is related to the level of refractive error. In other words, if you have a moderate to high refractive error (e.g. myopia) then blurring, glare or halos will be equally as high.

  • Thinning of the cornea: this does become thinner as a result of laser treatment. Not likely to cause any long term problems.

PRK Laser Eye Surgery Guide:



© Medic8® | All Rights Reserved