Corneal epithelial pocket formation systems include a cutting head and a blade coupled to the cutting head. The blade is coupled to the cutting head at an orientation that is effective in maintaining a viable separated pocket defining portion of corneal epithelium of an eye of a patient during formation of a corneal epithelial pocket of the eye. The blade includes a cutting edge surface at its distal end. The cutting edge surface is effective in separating the corneal epithelium from the underlying Bowman's membrane of the eye without leaving residual corneal epithelial cells in contact with Bowman's membrane that may result in corneal epithelial cell growth between a corneal implant located in the corneal epithelial pocket and the underlying Bowman's membrane. Versions of the present systems include spring loaded blade holders, which may be removable from the cutting head. Versions also can include applanators. Packages containing spring loaded blade holders and blades, and disposable blades useful with the present systems are also described. The components, including disposable components, can be used to produce the present systems, and the present systems and components can be used in methods of enhancing or correcting a patient's vision.