The Balance of Style

Even though I write science fiction, I assume most writers of other genres experience the same problem I've encounter regarding style.  I have had criticisms about how complex and how poetic I my writing can encompass.  However I am always trying to retain a balance between story flow and technical explanation, while maintaining ease reading to complex prose. 
With this all in mind, I have chosen to err to the side of the simpler and less complex.  I prefer for the majority of the audience to follow the story rather than lose them in overwhelming complexity.  This decision, however, must be a personal and individual choice for every author looking to improve their readers following.