Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) and associated methods of manufacturing are provided. An example VCSEL includes a first reflector, a second reflector, and an active region disposed between the first reflector and the second reflector. The VCSEL further includes an electrical aperture defining a current confinement region configured to direct current to the active region and an optical aperture defining a medium through which light produced by the active region is emitted from the VCSEL. At least one dimension of the optical aperture of the VCSEL is formed independent of the electrical aperture of the VCSEL. In some instances, the dimension of the optical aperture is a first diameter such that the first diameter of the optical aperture is formed independent of a second diameter defined by the electrical aperture.