Systems and methods are provided for fingertip control of an ophthalmic surgical instrument during ophthalmic surgery. A hand control unit worn by the ophthalmic surgeon comprises at least one fingertip cover, with at least one sensor in the fingertip cover. The sensor may detect the surgeon's selection of the ophthalmic surgical instrument, the amount of finger pressure applied by the surgeon, and other parameters, allowing the surgeon to use fingertip action to control a function of the ophthalmic surgical instrument.
