An actuation system for an ophthalmic cutting tool is disclosed. The system comprises a chamber (44) separated by a diaphragm (46) into a first compartment (48) a second compartment (50). A first port (49) is provided in fluid communication with the first compartment (48) and a first conduit (38) connected to the ophthalmic cutting tool and a second port (51) is provided in fluid communication with the second compartment (50) and a second conduit (40) connected to the ophthalmic cutting tool. The diaphragm (46) is movably mounted within the chamber (44) and is configured for alternate movement between a first position and a second position to alternately increase and decrease the volume of the first and second compartments. A drive system (54) is provided to drive oscillation of a diaphragm actuator (52) for moving the diaphragm between the first and second positions.
