This sort of technology was originally used in astronomy to measure imperfections in mirrors and lenses. The system was refined by the 1970s, and has been tested for use in the eyes since the 1990s. The first application of wavefront guided LASIK was approved by the FDA in 2002.

Wavefront mapping is able to measure aberrations around 25 times more accurately than other methods. It works by sending a beam of light through the eye. This light is reflected back and the wavefront machine captures it, noting any distortions which will indicate higher or lower order aberrations.

Common problems such as nearsightedness arise from lower order aberrations, but there are many vision problems as a result of higher order aberrations that traditional treatments cannot correct. Each higher order aberration will be different between individuals, meaning that no two aberrations are exactly the same – like fingerprints. This is why wavefront technology provides more accurate results, producing a 3D diagram of the eye from which the laser reshapes the cornea accurately.

Once the mapping has been completed, computers will convert this data which acts as an instruction for the laser. This laser is what corrects the vision by reshaping the cornea. The best wavefront sensors now are integrated with the surgery systems, which include the VISX CustomVue system, and the LADARWave CustomCornea system. These are what allow each individual vision problems to be measured and treated for the best results possible.

During the custom wavefront lasik procedure, the patient will stare at a certain point through which light is sent to the eye. Any distortions in the light being sent back are read by the wavefront sensor. These distortions, which are what cause problems in vision, are known as ‘aberrations’ and this recording is what later allows the physician to treat the exact vision problems in each eye.

After the map of aberrations has been created for the eyes, a small flap must be created either with a laser (IntraLasik) or a small blade (microkeratome) to allow access to the cornea (as in other types of LASIK surgery). This flap is opened and the LASIK reshapes the cornea. The map is used to accurately guide the laser for an individual treatment in each eye. This is what allows wavefront LASIK to attain the best vision results possible. When all of the aberrations have been treated, the flap will be closed and it will heal naturally.

During the treatment the patient is given numbing drops in the eye, as well as a mild sedative to make it as relaxing as possible. After the procedure lubrication is used to protect the eyes, and sight may not improve immediately. You may also be given a plastic eye shield. It is always recommended to ask someone else to drive you home and to go to sleep as soon as possible after the procedure. This will mean your eyes can heal as soon as possible.

Your doctor will be able to explain everything about lasik recovery in depth and any problems with vision that occur after the procedure should be brought to your physician’s attention.