What is the laser eye surgery risk percentage?

If you’re considering laser eye surgery, it’s only natural to have questions about the associated risks. You may wonder, “What is the laser eye surgery risk percentage?” In this blog, we’ll delve into the topic and provide valuable insights to help you make an informed choice.

Understanding laser eye surgery risks

Laser eye surgery, including procedures like LASIK eye surgery and PRK, has evolved over the years to become a highly safe and effective form of refractive surgery.¹Sabau. et al. Efficacy, safety, and predictability of transepithelial… : Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery, LWW.

These surgical procedures work by reshaping the corneal tissue, which is the clear front surface of the eye that focuses light. By improving how light enters the eye, vision can become clearer and dependence on wearing glasses or contact lenses may be reduced.

Even with modern technology and careful screening, every laser eye surgery procedure carries some level of risk. Understanding this risk in realistic terms is an important part of deciding whether treatment is right for you.

It is also helpful to remember that millions of people worldwide have chosen refractive surgery over the past three decades. Ongoing research, improved laser precision, and better patient screening have all contributed to steadily improving safety outcomes over time.

Long-term safety and research evidence

Laser eye surgery has been studied for more than 30 years, with ongoing clinical research tracking safety, stability, and patient satisfaction over time. Large international studies show that most suitable patients maintain improved vision for many years after treatment, with low rates of serious complications. Advances in laser accuracy, imaging technology, and screening methods have continued to improve safety outcomes across modern refractive procedures.

It is important to understand that long term results depend on natural changes within the eye as well as the original treatment. Age related conditions such as presbyopia or cataracts can still develop later in life, even when the original laser eye surgery procedure was successful. This does not mean the surgery has failed, but rather reflects the normal ageing process of the eye.

Regular eye examinations remain essential after treatment. Ongoing monitoring helps protect eye health, detect unrelated eye conditions, and ensure vision remains stable. With careful patient selection, modern technology, and appropriate follow up care, laser vision correction continues to demonstrate a strong long term safety profile for suitable candidates.

Common risks and side effects

• Dry Eyes: Temporary dryness is one of the most frequently reported post operative symptoms. This usually improves with lubricating drops and healing over time. Some patients may notice dryness lasting months after surgery, though long-term discomfort is uncommon.
• Glare and Halos: Some patients may notice glare, halos, double vision or sensitivity to light, especially in low-light conditions. These effects usually diminish as your eyes heal.²https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0886335002018163
• Infection: Infection is rare but possible after any eye surgical procedure. Strict sterile techniques, protective medications, and close follow-up care are used to reduce this risk.³https://www.londonvisionclinic.com/laser-eye-treatments/eye-surgery-risks/
• Undercorrection or Overcorrection: In some cases, the procedure may not correct your vision to the desired level. Enhancement procedures can address this if necessary.

Extremely low risk of severe complications

The risk of severe complications, such as permanent loss of vision, is extremely rare at 1%.⁴https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/lasik-complication-rate-side-effects/

It is important to understand that this figure includes a wide range of outcomes, many of which are temporary or treatable. With modern technology, detailed screening, and refined techniques for creating the corneal flap in LASIK, serious complications are now far less common than in earlier decades.

While uncommon, potential long-term complications can include persistent dry eye, inflammation, or visual disturbances. Careful monitoring during the post operative period helps identify and manage these issues early.

What happens during healing?

Healing after LASIK eye surgery or PRK occurs in stages.

In the first few days, the surface of the eye begins repairing itself. Vision may fluctuate, and mild irritation is normal.

Over the following weeks, the reshaped corneal tissue continues to stabilise. Many visual symptoms gradually improve during this time.

For some patients, subtle changes in vision can continue for several months after surgery as the eye fully settles. This slow stabilisation is a normal biological process rather than a complication.

Follow-up visits are an important part of safe recovery. These appointments allow your clinical team to check healing, monitor vision, and adjust medications if needed. Attending scheduled reviews helps reduce risk and supports the best possible long-term outcome.

Your individual risk assessment

It’s crucial to understand that the laser eye surgery risk percentage varies from person to person. Your safety and successful outcome depend on several factors:

• • Eye Health: Existing eye conditions, such as dry eye disease, inflammation, or irregular corneal shape, may influence suitability.
  • Prescription: Higher refractive errors sometimes carry different levels of risk or may be better suited to alternative treatments.
  • Age: Vision should be stable before surgery. Natural age-related changes, such as presbyopia, can still occur later in life regardless of treatment.
  • Surgeon’s Experience: The skill and experience of your surgeon are key factors in ensuring your safety and success.

To further reduce your risk, your surgeon will carefully screen for any conditions that could affect your outcome. This may include testing for dry eye, measuring corneal thickness, and checking for signs of irregularity. Patients who are not good candidates for LASIK surgery may be offered alternative procedures that are more suitable.

In some cases, postponing or avoiding surgery altogether is the safest choice and that decision will always be made in your best interest. Our goal is to match the right patient with the right procedure at the right time, to support the best possible result.

When surgery may not be recommended

In some situations, avoiding surgery is the safest option.

Examples may include unstable prescriptions, significant dry eye, thin corneas, or other medical concerns.

A responsible clinical approach always prioritises long-term eye health over proceeding with treatment. Deciding not to operate can sometimes be the best and safest recommendation.

Take the first step

To assess your individual risk and determine if laser eye surgery is right for you, we recommend booking a free assessment with us.

During the assessment, we will thoroughly evaluate your eye health and discuss your visual goals. We’ll address any concerns you may have, including questions about risk, healing, and what to expect after surgery. It’s the first step in helping you understand whether refractive surgery aligns with your needs.

Your journey toward clearer vision begins with good information and a careful conversation about your eyes.