[3] Envelope capsulotomy is done by making a linear incision in upper one-third of anterior capsule, after which the nucleus is extracted and cortical matter arpirated.

After cataract removal cuts are started at the ends of the incision and the opening for implantation is formed by tearing as in CCC.

The laser produces a precisely spaced row of adjacent perforations through the capsule, and can produce uniformly circular, accurately centred cuts compared with manual CCC, but the edges are relatively rough and this can reduce tear strength due to stress concentrations, though statistically the incidence of tears is low.

The energy destroys the molecular structure, and caused transient microscopic plasma and cavitation bubbles in the tissue.

The Nitinol tip can be collapsed sufficiently to pass through an incision of about 2.2 mm, after which it springs back into circular shape inside the anterior chamber.

The device is moved into contact with the anterior capsule, held in position by suction, and uses 4 millisecond electrical pulses to make a circular incision of exact size and shape, without overheating the chamber.

[2] Months or years after the cataract operation, the remaining posterior lens capsule can become opaque and vision will be reduced in about 20–25% of eyes.