Higher Order Aberrations

In addition to defocus errors, most of us also have very fine irregularities of the visual system, called Higher Order Aberrations. These irregularities range from very mild to profound and affect quality of vision, particularly when lighting is dim. This is because they are typically located at the periphery (edge) of the center of vision, and as the pupil dilates to let more light into the eye, the distortions they create become more evident. They induce problems such as glare or additional shadows and haloes and are one reason why many people find night vision is less clear than day vision.

Wavefront scanning technology has been designed to detect the locations and degree of these irregularities while Wavefront treatment technology has been designed to correct these irregularities. Without Wavefront treatment, higher order aberrations become more pronounced following laser surgery, leading to concerns about diminished night vision following conventional laser surgery. Conversely, with Wavefront laser treatment, many people report improved night vision following surgery.

Currently, lens implants are not designed with Wavefront technology but the next generation of custom designed lenses may include this innovation, offering those undergoing Refractive Lens Exchange the same benefits that Wavefront laser patients can now appreciate.