In this episode of Full Tech Ahead, host Amanda Razani speaks with Dr. Jeff Dello Russo, a pioneering ophthalmologist and Chief Medical Director of multiple laser vision centers across the New York tri-state area. With more than two decades of experience, Dr. Dello Russo discusses how artificial intelligence is transforming refractive surgery—making vision correction more precise, efficient, and capable of delivering results beyond what was once thought possible.

Summary

Dr. Dello Russo shares how his practice has integrated a groundbreaking AI-powered LASIK system that combines laser precision with intelligent computation. Using ray tracing and virtual eye modeling, the system captures tens of thousands of light measurements to create a digital clone of each patient’s eye. It then runs thousands of simulated treatments on this digital twin to determine the optimal correction—resulting in 100% of patients in clinical trials achieving 20/20 vision or better, with many reaching 20/15 or even 20/10 visual acuity. This innovation eliminates much of the guesswork and patient subjectivity found in traditional eye exams, allowing for consistent, reproducible, and highly customized results.

Looking ahead, Dr. Dello Russo foresees AI expanding beyond LASIK into cataract surgery and other ocular procedures, benefiting patients of all ages. He explains that AI-driven diagnostics and predictive modeling will soon help surgeons identify the perfect intraocular lenses and refine post-surgery outcomes. As computing power increases, he envisions an era where AI supports lifelong eye health—from youthful vision correction to age-related treatments—helping people see better and longer than ever before.

Key Quotes:

• “It’s kind of like creating a virtual clone of the eye—and testing thousands of treatments to find the perfect one.”
• “In clinical trials, 100% of patients reached 20/20 vision, and many went beyond—to 20/15 or even 20/10.”
• “AI removes the guesswork. It’s not about replacing doctors—it’s about enhancing precision and confidence.”

Takeaways

• AI-powered LASIK creates a digital twin of the eye to personalize and perfect vision correction.
• Every patient in the latest study achieved 20/20 vision or better.
• The technology minimizes subjectivity from traditional “better one, better two” testing.
• AI integration in cataract surgery is expanding precision care for older patients.
• Enhanced diagnostic modeling may extend the longevity of results.

Timestamps

• [00:00] Introduction — Amanda Razani welcomes Dr. Jeff Dello Russo
• [00:25] Jeff’s background and decades of innovation in refractive surgery
• [01:48] How AI and ray tracing create a virtual model of the eye
• [03:30] Achieving 100% 20/20 vision and beyond through AI-driven optimization
• [06:30] Comparing pre-AI LASIK to today’s precision and consistency
• [08:39] Reducing subjectivity and enhancing efficiency in diagnostics
• [10:01] Availability and rollout of AI-powered LASIK systems
• [11:30] How AI is transforming cataract surgery and the broader field of ophthalmology
• [14:37] Can AI improve long-term results and visual permanence?
• [16:00] Final takeaway: AI as a partner in lifelong eye health

Links/Resource

Website: Dello Russo Laser Vision - https://www.dellorusso.com/ 

LinkedIn:  Jeffrey D. - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-d-379b3394/ 

Podcast: Full Tech Ahead — Hosted by Amanda Razani

Find Amanda Razani on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-razani-990a7233/