A system for delivering a laser beam to a lens of an eye in a plurality of vertical patterns while avoiding a posterior capsule of the lens comprises a laser (202)； an optical path for directing a laser beam (203) from the laser (202) to the lens of the eye； a means for obtaining observed data of the lens (206)； and a control system (204) for at least directing the laser beam in a plurality of vertical patterns (2303). The control system (204) is capable of determining a position for the lens of the eye based upon a numerical model for the shape of the lens and the observed data. The plurality of vertical patterns (2303) extend at least 1.5 mm above and at least 1 mm below the equatorial axis of the lens, and avoid the posterior side of the lens capsule (2301).
