Abstract: A system for denaturing corneal tissue. The system includes a ground element and an electrode coupled to a power unit. The electrode is inserted into a cornea. The power unit provides power to the electrode to denature corneal tissue. The power may be at a level so that the temperature of the corneal tissue adjacent to the electrode is such that it minimizes tissue overheating. The power may be applied for a time duration up to 30 seconds at a level that does not exceed 500 mW. The surgeon may dial in an input parameter that correlates with a diopter correction in a cornea.