An analytical model is developed to predict the relation between the opening force and operating conditions in a mechanical seal with laser textured microsurface structure in the form of micropores. The model is valid for any desired shape of the micropores. An optimization is performed for spherical shape micropores evenly distributed on one of the mating rings face to maximize the opening force and fluid film stiffness. Results of a parametric study are presented showing the effect of the main design parameters on the seal performance. Some results of an experimental investigation with water-lubricated seal rings are also shown and compared with the theoretical model.Presented as a Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers paper at the ASME/STLE Tribology Conference in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, October 26–28, 1998