Laser Vision Correction for Off-Grid Expeditions
In 2022, Dr. Jordan Boersma, an ornithologist and postdoc researcher at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, made a historic discovery.
Working alongside hunters on Fergusson Island in Papua New Guinea, he recorded the first sighting of the Black-naped Pheasant-pigeon (Otidiphaps insularis) since the 1800s. This critically endangered species – previously known only from a single museum specimen! – had eluded researchers for over a century. But thanks to Boersma’s work and his close collaboration with local communities, the elusive bird was finally documented. You can watch the full story on YouTube or below!
For nearly a decade, Dr. Boersma has dedicated his life to conservation research, often venturing deep into remote rainforests and mountain terrain where running water, electricity, and modern conveniences are nonexistent. These off-grid expeditions present significant logistical challenges… including the burden of relying on glasses and contact lenses in environments where replacing or cleaning them is nearly impossible.
Why Jordan Chose Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA)
Recognizing the limitations of glasses and contacts in the field, Dr. Boersma decided to undergo Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA) in early 2025 with Dr. Moskowitz. His goal? To safely gain freedom from corrective lenses while improving his visual acuity – an essential asset for spotting and identifying bird species, whether in the dense jungle of Papua New Guinea or in our own local urban landscapes like Central Park and Prospect Park.
Unlike LASIK, ASA requires a longer recovery period, but it is a safer alternative for those with active lifestyles.
With no flap or corneal cutting involved, ASA eliminates the risk of inopportune flap complications (i.e. flap dislodgment) that might require immediate correction by an ophthalmologist, making it a preferred option for individuals like Dr. Boersma and other active patients who can’t afford to take that chance. Even more significantly, ASA dramatically reduces the likelihood of long-term dry eye issues – a crucial consideration for someone like Jordan who spends weeks at a time in remote locations without easy access to medical supplies like eye drops.
The Assurance of Seeing The World Clearly (Without Assistance)
For Dr. Boersma, the decision to undergo laser vision correction was more than just about convenience; it was about enhancing his ability to conduct groundbreaking conservation research.
Jordan’s story also resonates with anyone wanting to remove unnecessary dependencies from their life – whether it's the hassle of packing extra contacts for a weekend trip, the frustration of losing glasses at the worst moment, or the need to be prepared for any situation life throws your way.
So for those who value self-reliance (such as world travelers, outdoor adventurers, or individuals who believe in always being ready), being able to see clearly without aid is more than just an upgrade. It's a form of preparedness!
When vision is a critical part of your everyday carry, eliminating the need for fragile, high-maintenance corrective lenses is a logical step toward resilience. In the same way some people build go-bags or keep emergency kits on hand, making sure your eyesight is sharp and reliable (no matter the circumstances) is a choice that speaks to the same mindset.
Whether you’re tracking wildlife deep in the rainforest, navigating an unfamiliar city, or simply preparing for the unexpected, laser vision correction can be a game-changer.
To learn more about ASA and watch more patient testimonials, click the button below!