Both techniques are safe and effective for low to moderate amounts of myopia. For younger patients with more than 3.0 diopters of myopia, the laser may offer a slightly better chance for optimum vision. Any surgical procedure should be undertaken only after careful consideration of the likelihood of success and consequences of any possible risks or side effects. Thorough professional advice from a qualified eye surgeon or surgeons is required before any eye treatment is undertaken. The safety of the procedure is judged on the basis of the chance of a possible complication.
Serious complications are extremely rare.
Infection is the most worrisome complication and fortunately it can usually be eliminated with antibiotic medications. Other possible problems include delayed surface healing, corneal haze and or scarring, over or undercorrection, and the development of astigmatism. Some individuals can have a poor or excessive healing response. Again most complications remain treatable with medications or further surgery. Unlike the laser, RK weakens the eye.