OBJECTIVE Previous studies have shown that Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) underestimates intraocular pressure (IOP) following photorefractive keratometry (PRK) and myopic laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability of intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements by Goldmann applanation tonometry and pneumotonometry (PT) after hyperopic LASIK. METHODS The IOPs of 20 eyes of 15 patients who underwent hyperopia LASIK were prospectively evaluated. Central and peripheral IOP were measured with GAT and PT, and central and peripheral corneal thicknesses were measured with ultrasonographic pachymetry. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and at 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS Postoperative GAT measurements of IOP made from the central (13.1+/-2.7 mm Hg) and peripheral (13.9+/-3.3 mm Hg) corneal areas were significantly lower (P <0.001) than central IOP measured preoperatively (17.0+/-2.5 mm Hg). Postoperative PT measurements from the central (17.4+/-3.2 mm Hg) and peripheral (17.6+/-2.9 mm Hg) corneal areas were slightly lower than preoperative central IOP (18.4+/-2.4 mm Hg), but not statistically significant. There were no significant differences between central and peripheral IOP measurements using either method. CONCLUSIONS The data demonstrate that GAT may underestimate IOP measurement, following hyperopic LASIK.