Abstract: An apparatus for aspirating the lens cortex which comprises an aspirator and a negative pressure generator. The aspirator comprises a handpiece having an aspirating nozzle and an irrigating nozzle adjacent to the nozzle, an aspirating tube being connected to the aspirating nozzle to provide an aspirating channel extending from the aspirating nozzle through the tube, the aspirating channel having a shutoff member for opening or closing the channel. The negative pressure generator comprises a barrel attached to a mount frame and fitted with a plunger, the barrel having an open connecting end for holding the barrel in communication with the aspirating nozzle, the plunger having a weight engaging portion.