The present invention provides applicators for performing
thermokeratoplasty. One embodiment of such applicators includes a pair of
electrical conducting elements electrically separated by a selected
distance and extending from a proximal end to a distal end. The
electrical conducting elements define, at the distal end, a contact
surface that is positionable at a cornea. At least one of the electrical
conducting elements is divided into a plurality of discrete sections
extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The discrete sections
are selectively and separately actuated by a controller according to one
or more variable characteristics to deliver energy to the cornea.