With a general working knowledge of ophthalmic lasers, optometrists can better evaluate patients to determine when laser surgery may be most beneficial. The optometrist is involved in the post-operative care of the patient, with the ophthalmologist performing the actual surgery. Looking to the future when optometrists will be permitted to perform laser surgery themselves, this is an excellent guide for optometrists and optometry students on when and how to use the various ophthalmic lasers.