A capsularhexis device includes a loop-shaped cutting portion formed fromflexible, superelastic metal stripssepa-rated by an insulating layer, and configured so that the cutting portionmay be retracted into a tubular insertion cartridge forinser-tion into and removal from the eye, and extended from the insertioncartridge for the capsularhexis procedure. In its extendedcon-figuration, the cutting portion forms a cutting loop such that a free endof the cutting loop is proximate a connecting end of thecutting loop, with the connecting end joined to a shaft portion. The shaftportion extends into the insertion capsule, and is used tomove the cutting portion in and out of the insertion cartridge.
