In all of medicine, laser technology has been the most beneficial to patients with ophthalmic problems such as diabetic retinopathy. Lasers produce a light unique in nature. The light is of specific wavelengths and the light waves vibrate together without interference. This light can be microscopically focused, allowing for precise control in treatment.

Patients who need laser surgery are seated at a slit-lamp, just as during an examination. Before the laser is used, the patient is given drops or local anesthesia to "numb" the eye. Then, the beam of laser light is focused through a special contact lens held on the patient's eye by the treating ophthalmologist.

After thorough dilation, the entire treatment process usually takes 20 minutes or less.