You can freely build on How Lasers Correct Vision by Reshaping the Eye's Front Surface

What this patent covers

The patent details a method for changing the optical properties of an eye by operating solely on the cornea's anterior surface. It uses selective ultraviolet (UV) laser radiation to remove corneal tissue through a process called ablative photodecomposition (Claim 1). This process sculpts the cornea to a predetermined curvature profile, correcting vision defects. For example, to fix astigmatism, the laser beam is focused to a tiny spot and scanned over the cornea in a specific pattern, removing tissue to a precise depth (Claim 3). This scanning action changes the cornea's shape, allowing it to focus light correctly.

What is now free to use

All 0 claims of US 4665913 are in the public domain. Specifically:

The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.

What is NOT covered

Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.

• Does not cover vision correction methods that operate on parts of the eye other than the anterior surface of the cornea.

• Does not cover laser eye surgery using non-ultraviolet light, as it specifically claims "ultraviolet irradiation" (Claim 1).

• Does not cover methods that reshape the cornea without removing tissue through "ablative photodecomposition" (Claim 1).

• Does not cover techniques that do not aim for a "predetermined curvature profile" to correct specific vision errors (Claim 1).

• Does not cover procedures where the laser ablation does not penetrate into the stroma layer of the cornea (Claim 1).

Who is building on this today

Companies like Alcon, Johnson & Johnson Vision, Carl Zeiss Meditec, and Bausch + Lomb are major players in the ophthalmic industry, developing and manufacturing advanced laser systems and diagnostic tools for vision correction. These companies continue to innovate on the principles of corneal reshaping established by this foundational work, improving precision and expanding treatable conditions.

Products built on expired version of this technology

How to cite this patent in your documentation

LRI LP. US Patent 4665913. Method for ophthalmological surgery. Granted 1987, expired 2005. Now in the public domain.

Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.

PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.