An ocular device applicator that is a combined delaminating and inserting device configured to partially delaminate the corneal epithelium and to place a corrective ocular device onto the delaminated cornea under the partially delaminated epithelium. The ocular device applicator leaves at least a portion of the delaminated corneal epithelium attached to the cornea. The ocular device applicator comprises an edge and an ocular device holder. In some versions an ocular device may be secured in and/or released from the device by force applied in the holder, or by a releasable adhesive. The ocular device applicator may be oscillated to facilitate delamination of the corneal epithelium and placement of an ocular device.