a method for performing intrastromal ophthalmic laser surgery requires laser induced optical breakdown of stromal tissue without compromising bowman &# 39 ; s capsule . in detail , the method creates cuts in the stroma over all , or portions of , a plurality of concentric cylindrical surfaces . importantly , these cuts are all centered on the visual axis of the patient &# 39 ; s eye . in accordance with the present invention , cuts can be made either alone or in conjunction with the removal of predetermined volumes of stromal tissue . the actual location of cuts in the surgery will depend on whether the treatment is for presbyopia , myopia , hyperopia or astigmatism .