Abstract: An applicator is disclosed for use in anesthetizing the eye prior to surgery, such as anterior segment surgery. The applicator includes an annular wall which defines an opening sufficiently large to expose the cornea of an eye. The applicator is made from a porous, absorbent material capable of absorbing a topical anesthetic. A method for using such an applicator is also provided. The method includes the steps of positioning the applicator upon the eye such that the wall substantially conforms to the surface configuration of the eye while substantially entirely exposing the cornea portion of the eye through the opening.