Summary: Femtosecond laser-assisted correction of refractive errors is governed by infrared lasers. However, ultraviolet lasers create a smaller focus and cut with less energy. This enhances surgical precision and reduces collateral damage. The preclinical testing phase of a new refractive UV femtosecond laser was passed with promising results. Postoperative wound healing in rabbit corneas was without incident. UV light and stray blue light posed no threat to lens and retina. The UV laser was superior to competing infrared platforms in terms of interface quality and gas production. To date, clinical testing has been uneventful, but initial attempts on human donor eyes failed. Postmortal time-dependent changes in the corneal epithelium are responsible for the laser failure. Since this effect might be relevant for patients with certain ocular conditions, its cause is currently under investigation