The Laser Technology Behind Clearer Vision
If you’re considering laser eye surgery Hunter Street Eye Specialists (Parramatta) is built around the SCHWIND ecosystem: the ATOS femtosecond laser and the AMARIS excimer platform. Together they enable a complete range of evidence-based treatments – SmartSurfACE (TransPRK), FemtoLASIK, and SmartSight – so we can match the method to your eyes and lifestyle.
Snapshot:
- ATOS = femtosecond laser for FemtoLASIK flap creation and SmartSight lenticule extraction, with pupil recognition and cyclotorsion compensation to support centration.
- AMARIS 1050RS = high-speed excimer with unique 7D eye tracking designed to monitor position and rotation in real time.
What is laser vision correction?
Laser vision correction gently reshapes the front surface of the eye (cornea) so light focuses more clearly on the retina – reducing dependence on glasses or contacts. Different techniques vary in how the laser energy is applied and whether a corneal flap or tiny keyhole access is used.
Why SCHWIND?
Precision hardware + intelligent tracking
AMARIS 1050RS runs at 1050 Hz with 7D eye tracking, designed to compensate for tiny movements and rotation to help keep treatment aligned.
Versatility in one theatre
ATOS performs both minimally-invasive SmartSight (lenticule) and FemtoLASIK flaps, giving us flexibility to tailor care.
No-touch surface option
SmartSurfACE (TransPRK) removes the epithelium touch-free – no suction, flap or incision and pairs with SmartPulse Technology for a smoother surface and faster early visual clarity in surface treatments.
Pathways for different life stages
Planning modules such as PresbyMAX (for presbyopia on the AMARIS platform) broaden options where clinically appropriate.
Your options with SCHWIND (how they differ)
- SmartSurfACE (TransPRK) – the “no-touch” surface laser
A single-step, touch-free treatment on the AMARIS: the laser removes the surface layer and reshapes the cornea without suction, flap or incision. Often considered when preserving upper corneal tissue is a priority (e.g., certain corneal shapes or dusty environments). SmartPulse aims to create a smoother surface for clearer early vision.
- FemtoLASIK – flap-based
With ATOS, a precise thin flap is created, then the AMARIS reshapes the cornea beneath. Still a widely used pathway for selected prescriptions and occupations.
- SmartSight – flap-free lenticule technique
ATOS creates a tiny lens-shaped lenticule inside the cornea that’s removed through a small keyhole opening (no flap). The platform’s pupil recognition and cyclotorsion compensation support alignment—especially relevant in astigmatism. Typically offered to suitable patients with myopia and astigmatism.
There’s no single “best” procedure. Each has trade-offs. After detailed testing, we’ll recommend the option that fits your eyes and goals.
Who might be suitable?
Suitability varies from person to person and depends on factors such as your prescription, corneal shape and thickness, overall eye health, and your daily visual demands. That’s why a comprehensive assessment is essential. During your consultation, advanced scans will map your cornea and ocular surface, and we’ll carefully discuss the pros and cons of each procedure to recommend the option best tailored to your eyes and lifestyle.
FAQs
What is SmartSurfACE?
SCHWIND’s transepithelial PRK performed touch-free on the AMARIS in a single step; combined with SmartPulse for a smoother surface and faster early visual recovery in surface treatments.
What does “7D eye tracking” mean?
On AMARIS, tracking covers position and rotation (x-y-z movements plus torsion) to help maintain alignment throughout treatment.
How is SmartSight different from LASIK?
SmartSight (ATOS) is flap-free: a lenticule is created and removed through a small opening. LASIK uses a flap (created by ATOS) then reshapes with AMARIS.
Do you treat astigmatism?
Yes – across SmartSurfACE, FemtoLASIK and SmartSight. ATOS adds pupil recognition and cyclotorsion compensation to support axis alignment where needed.
What about reading vision (presbyopia)?
In suitable cases, the PresbyMAX planning module on AMARIS supports presbyopic laser profiles; your surgeon will advise whether laser, lens-based options or a combination fits you best.
Ready to explore your options?
Book a personalised laser vision suitability assessment in Parramatta with the team at Hunter Street Eye Specialists. We’ll measure your eyes, discuss your day-to-day visual tasks, and recommend the procedure most aligned to your goals.
