An apparatus and method are provided for use in removing liquid from under
a corneal flap generated during LASIK surgery. The apparatus comprises a
handle, a sickle-shaped end coupled to the handle, the sickle-shaped end
having a concave and a convex portion, and a sponge coupled with the
concave portion of the sickle-shaped end, extending along the convex
portion thereof, and being shaped substantially similarly to the
sickle-shaped end. The sickle-shaped end extends from approximately
180.degree. to 270.degree., or any other desired part of a circle and may
have sponge on one or both sides thereof. The radius of the sickle-shaped
end is the same or slightly larger than the diameter of a corneal flap
generated during LASIK surgery so that when the apparatus is placed
adjacent the cornea of a patient about the corneal flap, liquid is wicked
from thereunder without requiring any contact with the corneal flap.