Abstract: An ophthamalic instrument suitable for the removal of unwanted tissue and for polishing the posterior capsula of an eye comprises a hollow outer component and a hollow inner component. The hollow outer component has a first and second end, the first end of which is open. The hollow inner component is adapted to be slidingly received within the outer component. The inner component also has a first and second end, the first end being closed and rounded. The inner component has an aperture near the first end through which an associated irrigating medium and dislodged tissue may be aspirated. The first end of the outer component is made of a synthetic resin polymer and is useful for polishing the posterior capsula. The first end of the inner component is made of metal and is selectively extendable beyond the first end of the outer component.