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5 documented risks. Severity reflects clinical significance, not probability.
Corneal haze
moderate5.00% (2.00–15.00%)Prevention: Mitomycin C application in higher corrections; UV protection during healing.
Sources: aao-ppp-refractive, escrs-refractive-guidelines
Persistent dry eye
minor30.00% (20.00–50.00%)Prevention: Pre-operative tear film assessment; lubricating drops; punctal plugs in selected patients.
Sources: aao-ppp-refractive
Slow visual recovery (>3 months)
minor10.00% (5.00–20.00%)Prevention: Realistic counselling; consideration of LASIK if rapid recovery is essential.
Sources: cochrane-lasik-vs-prk
Under- or over-correction requiring enhancement
minor5.00% (2.00–10.00%)Prevention: Accurate pre-operative refraction; experienced surgeon.
Sources: cochrane-lasik-vs-prk
Ectasia (corneal weakening)
severe0.02%Prevention: Pre-operative topography to exclude keratoconus; appropriate residual stromal bed thickness.
Sources: aao-ppp-refractive, escrs-refractive-guidelines