Laser Eye Surgery Options in Brisbane: CLEAR, LASIK and PRK Explained

Laser eye surgery is one of the most effective ways to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. But with so many techniques—CLEAR, LASIK, PRK—and emerging technologies like ray tracing lasers, it’s normal to feel unsure about which option is right for you.

Dr David Gunn offers all modern refractive surgery techniques. That means your treatment is tailored to your eye shape, prescription, lifestyle, and future needs—not limited to a single method.

In this article, we’ll walk through the three main types of laser eye surgery we offer in Brisbane—CLEAR (lenticule extraction), LASIK and PRK—and help you understand how they compare. We’ll also introduce the latest innovation in surgical precision: WaveLight ray tracing technology, available exclusively at select centres in Australia.

What Is CLEAR Lenticule Extraction?

CLEAR (Corneal Lenticule Extraction for Advanced Refractive correction) is a flapless laser procedure used to correct short-sightedness and astigmatism. CLEAR is the newest evolution in lenticule extraction, a technique that reshapes the cornea by removing a precise disc (or lenticule) of tissue from within the eye, through a tiny keyhole incision.

How it works:

• A femtosecond laser creates a thin lenticule inside the cornea

• The lenticule is removed through a 2–3mm incision

• The cornea reshapes itself to match the new curvature

CLEAR is:

• Flapless (no flap like in LASIK)

• Minimally invasive (keyhole entry)

• Comfortable and fast-healing

• Excellent for contact lens–intolerant patients

It is particularly suitable for younger patients with stable prescriptions and healthy corneal anatomy. Because it preserves more biomechanical strength than LASIK, it is often preferred in borderline corneas and athletes.

Not every patient is suited to lenticule extraction—corneal mapping and screening are essential. Dr Gunn will advise whether CLEAR is an appropriate option after your assessment.

What Is LASIK?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) has been the gold standard in laser eye surgery for over two decades. It’s a highly precise, two-step procedure:

• First, a femtosecond laser creates a thin flap on the surface of the cornea

• Then, an excimer laser reshapes the underlying corneal tissue to correct your vision

• The flap is repositioned, acting as a natural bandage

LASIK is known for:

• Quick recovery (functional vision within 24–48 hours)

• Minimal discomfort

• Excellent accuracy with low complication rates

• High satisfaction in patients with myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism

Dr Gunn uses the WaveLight ray tracing laser system, which offers greater precision than conventional excimer lasers. By incorporating wavefront-guided and topography-based corrections, this technology accounts for subtle irregularities in your eye’s optics to create an exceptionally personalised result.

LASIK is generally preferred in patients with thicker corneas, stable refractions, and no signs of dry eye or ocular surface disease.

What Is PRK?

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is the original laser vision correction technique and remains an excellent option in specific clinical situations.

Unlike LASIK, no flap is created. Instead:

• The surface layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently removed

• An excimer laser reshapes the corneal surface

• A bandage contact lens is placed for 3–5 days to aid healing

PRK is ideal for:

• Patients with thinner or irregular corneas

• Those with a high risk of trauma (e.g. boxers, soldiers)

• People prone to dry eye after LASIK

• Certain cases of previous refractive surgery

While visual recovery is slower than LASIK or CLEAR (expect 5–7 days for functional vision), PRK offers equivalent long-term outcomes and excellent safety. Some patients choose PRK for its stability and simplicity—particularly if they’re not suited to flap-based procedures.

What About WaveLight Ray Tracing Technology?

At Dr Gunn’s clinic, we use the WaveLight EX500 laser system, one of the few ray tracing–based refractive platforms available in Australia. Unlike older laser platforms that rely solely on glasses prescriptions, WaveLight integrates:

• Topographic maps of your corneal surface

• Wavefront scans to detect subtle optical imperfections

• Ray tracing algorithms to simulate how light travels through your eye

The result is a customised ablation profile for every patient, designed to optimise clarity, contrast sensitivity, and low-light vision.

Ray tracing laser treatments are especially useful for:

• Higher prescriptions

• Irregular corneas

• Night driving performance concerns

• Patients who previously had LASIK or PRK elsewhere

This level of precision is unmatched in conventional laser systems, and it’s available right here in Brisbane under the care of Dr David Gunn.

Which Option Is Right for You?

The best laser eye surgery technique for you depends on:

• Your corneal thickness and curvature

• The stability and magnitude of your prescription

• Your age, occupation, and visual priorities

• Your eye health and tear film status

During your comprehensive consultation, Dr Gunn will perform a series of diagnostic scans to determine which technique—CLEAR, LASIK or PRK—will give you the safest and most effective results.

It’s important to note: not every clinic offers all three options. Many offer only LASIK or PRK. At our Brisbane practice, you’ll receive advice on the full range of options, with no commercial bias toward one method.

Ready to Find Out If You’re a Candidate?

Laser vision correction is life-changing—and choosing the right surgeon and the right technique is just as important as the surgery itself. Dr David Gunn is a corneal and refractive subspecialist in Brisbane who performs all modern forms of laser eye surgery and uses the latest in WaveLight ray tracing technology. With years of experience in both complex and routine refractive surgery, he can offer honest advice about what’s best for your unique eyes.

Visit our Laser Vision Correction page to learn more, or book your consultation now and take the first step toward clear, glasses-free vision.

DR DAVID GUNN - OPHTHALMOLOGIST

MBBS (Hons I), BSc, CertLRS, FRANZCO, FWCRS

Dr. David Gunn, a respected ophthalmologist based in Brisbane, specialises in managing corneal diseases, cataract surgery, and advanced laser and refractive eye procedures at the Queensland Eye Institute. He graduated with First Class Honours from the University of Queensland and was awarded the prestigious K.G. Howsam gold medal during his ophthalmology training.

As an innovator in his field, Dr. Gunn has a special interest in topographic laser eye surgery procedures. His introduction of the Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segment surgery to Australia in May 2021 stands as testament to his drive for innovation, putting him among a select few surgeons worldwide performing this technique.

Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Gunn contributes to future developments in ophthalmology as a senior lecturer at the University of Queensland and through his active engagement in eye disease research.

However, what truly defines Dr. Gunn's work is his unwavering dedication to patient care. His pursuit of innovation and commitment to education all aim towards one goal: to enhance the lives of his patients through exceptional eye care. For Dr. Gunn, improving vision means improving life, a philosophy that continues to guide his practice in Brisbane.