Pune Surgeon Develops New Techniques to Correct Myopia; Revolutionizing Laser and Cataract Surgery

Redefining the way of laser vision correction procedures, a Pune-based ophthalmologist Dr. Jeevan Ladi, has developed innovative techniques known as Variable Optic Zone (VOZ) and Shearing Applied Force Extraction (SAFE), which offer more effective and safer treatment for myopia, requiring minimally invasive solutions. 

During a conference in Pune on Feb 11th, Dr. Ladi shared the experience of a 30-year-old Sudanese man who had high myopia, with a power of -7 in the right eye and -6 in the left, along with a thin cornea. Due to this, he was advised not to undergo laser vision correction. However, under Dr. Ladi, the patient successfully underwent VOZ  and SAFE procedures and recovered quickly regaining his natural vision. 

The VOZ Technique: Revolutionizing Laser Vision Correction

One of the main drawback of LASIK (Laser in situ keratomileusis) was the risk of corneal ectasia, attributed to creating a corneal flap, thereby reducing the biomechanical strength of the cornea. ^[1]

To overcome this, VOZ a next-generational advancement in Refractive Lenticule Extraction (ReLEx) and Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) is introduced.

This new approach may be best for eyes with higher refractive error lowering the risk of glare and halos. ^[1]

How does it work? 

According to Dr. Ladi, VOZ,

• Preserves 30% of corneal tissue compared to traditional methods, by using customized laser light which accurately measures individual pupil sizes under different lighting conditions.

• It uses software, to calculate the amount of corneal tissue to be treated by laser

• Suitable for individuals aged 18-60years with a thin cornea

• Reduces photic phenomena like glare and halos

The SAFE Technique: Method of Lenticule Dissection Using Reverse Pull

This unique game-changer method ensures 360 degrees complete removal of the lenticule with minimal postoperative inflammation. [2]

In traditional methods, the random separation of lenticule may leave a part of it attached to the periphery leading to inflammation and incomplete lenticule removal. ^[2]

Steps:

1. The lenticule is created by the Femtosecond laser 

2. Dissection is performed under high magnification (1.6X) for better tissue plane identification and separation of lenticule. ^[2]

Dr. Ladi ensured that, SAFE addresses the challenges caused by the traditional method and promotes faster healing and improves postoperative outcomes. 

Eye surgeon Dr. Manasi Godbole-Gharpure also underwent the same procedures for her own vision correction. 

References:

1. Shen, John, and Emily Carter. 2025. “Tissue Saving by Reducing and Using Variable Optic Zone (VOZ) to Correct Myopia by Refractive Lenticule Extraction.” Online Scientific Research. https://onlinescientificresearch.com/articles/tissue-saving-by-reducing-and-using-variable-optic-zone-voz--to-correct-myopia-by-refractive-lenticule-extraction.pdf.

2. Shen, John, and Emily Carter. 2025. “Para-Incisional Quadrant Saving Dissection in Refractive Lenticule Extraction for Myopia by Reverse Pull Using Shearing Applied Force.” Online Scientific Research. https://www.onlinescientificresearch.com/articles/para-incisional-quadrant-saving-dissection-in-refractive-lenticule-extraction-for-myopia-by-reverse-pull-using-shearing-applied-fo.html.

3. Dadala’s Eye Institute. 2025. “VOZ: Safe to Get Rid of Glasses?” Dadala’s Eye Institute Blog. Accessed February 12, 2025. https://dadalasereyeinstitute.com/blog/voz-safe-to-get-rid-of-glasses/.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Dr. Disha Merlyn Mathias/MSM)