: Photoablation is a new type of laser-tissue interaction that allows the removal of corneal tissue with submicron precision. To date, three potential applications have been developed: (1) peripheral keratectomies; (2) reprofiling of the central cornea; (3) corneal smoothing. Mimicking conventional incision techniques, excimer laser keratectomies indirectly influence the central cornea by mechanically relaxing the peripheral part. The most important clinical application is the correction of astigmatism. By irradiating the central cornea directly, small lenticules of tissue can be removed by making the curvature of the cornea flatter. Complications can arise from repair mechanisms leading to glare or reduction in the initial amount of optical correction. Corneal smoothing using an immersion fluid can be used after lamellar keratoplasty or to remove superficial pathological structures such as band keratopathy and superficial scars.