Abstract: An method for providing an objective manifest refraction of a patient's eye includes obtaining at least fourth-order Zernike wavefront aberration information, fitting a second-order only polynomial to the at least fourth-order data, and using this information to predict the patient's manifest refraction with an accuracy approaching the patient's subjective manifest refraction. A method is also described for prescribing an accurate vision correction based upon the objective manifest refraction. A display according to the invention includes higher-order wavefront aberrations, lower order wavefront aberrations, numerical indicia of predicted manifest refraction, and images of qualitative assessments of a patient's vision quality. A device for obtaining an objective manifest refraction is described.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for improving vision incorporate the effects of biodynamical and biomechanical (biological) responses of the eye. The eye produces a biological response to trauma, such as a LASIK keratectomy or other necessary traumatic procedure in preparation for refractive surgery. By observing the biological response, a prospective treatment to correct higher order aberrations is adjusted to compensate for the biological effects. An improved photorefractive surgery system incorporates one or more suitable diagnostic devices that provide biological response information in such a manner that the patient need not change position from that assumed for the surgical procedure.