Hybrid ophthalmic interface apparatus

A patient interface for coupling a patient's eye to an ophthalmic surgical laser system, the patient interface comprising:

• an attachment ring configured to overlay an anterior surface of the eye;
• a rigid annular housing defining an opening, and further defining an annular channel configured to receive a portion of the attachment ring;
• and
• an applanation lens is fixed across the opening of the rigid annular housing, the applanation lens having a lower surface defined by an outer ring portion and an inner concave portion shaped to receive the apex of the cornea of the patient's eye when the attachment ring is lowered toward the eye,
• wherein the annular housing includes a downwardly projecting annular wall which protrudes below and surrounds the outer ring portion of the applanation lens, wherein the outer ring portion of the applanation lens, the downwardly protruding annular wall, and the attachment ring form an annular compartment with the anterior surface of the eye when the attachment ring contacts the anterior surface of the eye, wherein the annular housing further includes a liquid filling port located at an upper end of the annular compartment and configured for injecting a liquid into the annular compartment, and wherein the annular compartment is sealed except for the liquid filling port.