This is one of the most significant developments in the field of eye surgery over the last 20 years. The excimer laser is an ultraviolet laser capable of breaking the molecular bonds of the corneal tissues by ablating them in a cool manner so minimal heat is generated.
The laser unit is computer controlled and so precise that it can remove less than a micron (one one-thousandth of a millimetre) of corneal tissue with each pulse. The computer software allows us to calculate with micro precision the number of pulses required to correct a specific refractive error by sculpting and reshaping the cornea. (In the case of myopia, reducing the steepness of the cornea, and in the case of hypermetropia, increasing the steepness of the cornea).
The computer also incorporates a tracking system that can follow the slightest eye movement and maintain precise laser pulse placement throughout the treatment.
