Laser vision correction is a constantly evolving field, with new advances providing patients and doctors greater comfort and confidence during LASIK procedures. While excellent results have been achieved for years, today’s lasers offer even more precision to reduce side effects and improve visual outcomes.
Dr. Jeffrey Maehara, raised in Honolulu, is board-certified by the American Academy of Ophthalmology and fellowship-trained in Anterior Segment-Glaucoma, bringing advanced surgical expertise to every procedure. Having trained under three of the world’s leading LASIK surgeons, he combines exceptional skill with the latest technology to deliver safer, more accurate vision correction for his patients.
What is the Allegretto Wave Laser?
The Allegretto Wave Excimer Laser is an FDA-approved, advanced system for laser vision correction with increased speed, accuracy, and safety. This product was developed in Germany by top doctors seeking to combine the most effective technologies in laser vision correction to produce a system with unparalleled precision and accuracy. The Allegretto Wave system has been used across the world for over 10 years and has been FDA-approved since 2003 for effective LASIK treatment.
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Wavefront Technology
The Allegretto Wave procedure uses advanced wavefront technology to compensate for the curvature of the cornea and increase the size and location of the corrected area, which effectively reduces side effects such as poor night vision, glare, and halos. Earlier laser vision correction techniques focused only on the centered front of the cornea, resulting in a flattened circular area that ended abruptly and created spherical aberrations that could lead to unwanted side effects.
Speed and Accuracy
The Allegretto Wave system employs a 0.9mm small-spot laser beam that transmits 200 pulses per second, a higher rate than any other laser available for this procedure. A correction of one diopter requires just four seconds of treatment. This laser can also extend to treat an 8.0mm area, with a blend zone of 9.0mm, making it an ideal choice for patients with large pupils or those concerned with night vision.
Eye Tracker
Our eyes make constant involuntary movements, up to 100 times per second, even when we sleep or remain motionless. This can make it challenging for your doctor to achieve the most precise correction during surgery. The Allegretto Wave system includes an eye tracker to track your eye movements during surgery and make sure that the eye has not moved before delivering the laser energy. Movements are tracked 200 times a second, each time the laser pulse is released. If the eye has moved, the laser will stop and wait for it to move back into position.
Perfect Pulse Technology
Perfect Pulse Technology controls every single pulse transmitted by the laser to ensure the accuracy and safety of the procedure. With this monitoring, only every fifth pulse overlaps, reducing the risk of overheating the cornea. This also adds to the speed, precision, and safety offered by the Allegretto Wave laser.
What is The WaveLight® Allegretto Wave® Eye-Q?
The WaveLight® Allegretto Wave® Eye-Q Laser, from Alcon Surgical, has FDA approval and uses the flexible performance of Wavefront Optimized® LASIK technology, with speed, accuracy, and safety. The surgeon is provided with the ability to precisely coordinate and align the position of both the head and the eyes.
The WaveLight® Allegretto Wave® Eye-Q Laser procedure uses advanced wavefront technology to compensate for the curvature of the cornea and preserve its shape, effectively reducing side effects such as poor night vision, glare, and halos. Each laser vision correction procedure is customized for the refraction and corneal curvature of each patient.
The Benefits of Allegretto Wave® LASIK Surgery
Allegretto Wave® LASIK offers advanced features designed to enhance both safety and visual outcomes. By combining cutting-edge laser technology with precise customization, it allows patients to enjoy clearer vision with fewer side effects compared to older laser systems. The procedure not only corrects refractive errors but also helps preserve the natural quality of vision in different lighting conditions.
Some of the key benefits include:
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Maintains the natural shape of the cornea
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Does not induce higher-order aberrations
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More accurate eye tracker for consistent results
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Utilizes advanced wavefront technology for personalized treatment
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Perfect Pulse Technology for safe, precise energy delivery
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Faster pulse rate than any other laser for quick procedures
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Larger pupil treatment areas for improved night vision
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Reduced risk of glare, halos, and other side effects
With these combined advantages, Allegretto Wave® LASIK provides a highly effective vision correction option for patients seeking lasting results.
What is the Difference Between Prolate and Oblate Cornea Curvatures?
The WaveLight® Allegretto Wave® Eye-Q Laser takes a different approach to reshaping the cornea. While the normal shape of the cornea is higher in the center (prolate), most lasers flatten the cornea and make it oblate, which can lead to spherical aberration and a lower quality of vision, especially at night. Many patients experience glare or halos after their LASIK procedure.
The WaveLight® Allegretto Wave® Eye-Q Laser maintains a prolate curvature while treating the cornea both centrally and peripherally. This offers patients improved vision quality during the day and night.
What Results Should I Expect After My Allegretto Wave Laser Procedure?
After the Allegretto Wave laser procedure, patients experience corrected near and far vision and often enjoy vision that is better than 20/20. In fact, over half of all patients reported 20/16 vision one year after treatment. The laser offers highly customized cornea reshaping for the best possible results from any type of laser vision correction.
If you are interested in learning more about the Allegretto Wave Technology and finding out if this procedure is right for you, please call us today to schedule a consultation. Laser vision correction has never been easier to achieve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can it Be Used to Treat Astigmatism?
Yes, this procedure can be used to treat nearsighted patients with prescriptions up to -12.00 diopters, including those with or without astigmatism, with prescriptions up to -6.00 diopters of astigmatism. Additionally, it can treat farsighted patients with prescriptions up to 6.00 diopters, including those with or without astigmatism, with prescriptions up to 5.0 diopters of astigmatism.
What Are the Benefits of Using it for a LASIK Procedure?
The WaveLight® Allegretto Wave® Eye-Q Laser offers patients many benefits over other laser systems during the LASIK procedure, including increased speed, accuracy, and safety.
Can I Have LASIK If I’ve Had Previous Eye Surgery?
Eligibility depends on the type of surgery you’ve had and your current eye condition. A detailed examination will determine if Allegretto Wave® LASIK is a safe and effective choice for you.
Will I Need Someone To Drive Me Home After Surgery?
Yes, it is important to have a friend or family member drive you home after the procedure. Your vision may be temporarily blurry for several hours as your eyes begin to heal.
Why Choose Dr. Jeffrey Maehara for Allegretto Wave® LASIK Surgery?
Raised in Honolulu, Dr. Jeffrey Maehara combines local roots with world-class LASIK expertise. After earning his medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine, he trained under three of the world’s foremost LASIK and refractive surgeons. Board-certified by the American Academy of Ophthalmology and fellowship-trained in Anterior Segment-Glaucoma, he offers advanced skills in LASIK, cataract surgery, corneal transplants, and complex glaucoma management. Known for introducing multiple eye care innovations to Hawaii, Dr. Maehara continues to lead with the latest technology for safer, more precise results.
He carries forward the legacy of his father, Dr. Dennis Maehara, who founded Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser over 30 years ago. Together, their shared commitment to exceptional vision care has made the practice a trusted destination for patients seeking clearer sight in Honolulu and beyond.
Advanced Eye Care with Allegretto Wave® in Honolulu, HI
If you’ve been thinking about improving your vision with Allegretto Wave® LASIK surgery, our team at Maehara Eye Surgery & Laser in Honolulu is ready to help you make that decision with confidence.
During your comprehensive eye evaluation, we will take precise measurements, answer your questions, and create a plan designed specifically for your eyes and your lifestyle. Contact us today at 808-955-3937 or reach out online to schedule your consultation and discover what life could look like with clearer vision.