Abstract: A flexible and transparent corneal endothelium protective device includes a relatively thin protective barrier portion, and a relatively thicker form-providing rim around the barrier portion. An access opening is provided through at least one of the rim and the barrier portion. The protective device is foldable for insertion through a surgical incision, is resilient such that it springs into shape once positioned in the eye, and is sufficiently flexible such that it may easily be removed through the incision in the eye near the completion of the surgical procedure. Various shapes are provided for the device. The protective device is inserted through the small incision and maneuvered into the space between the iris and the cornea and permitted to unfold. During surgery, instruments and other devices may be passed through the surgical incision and extend through an access opening of the protective device to operate on the lens.