An apparatus and method for removing a cataract lens from an eye, the apparatus comprising a surgical handpiece capable of phacoemulsification, irrigation and aspiration, for insertion into the eye, an infusion reservoir containing infusion fluid, the infusion reservoir being connected to the surgical handpiece by an infusion line, an evacuation line having a first end connected to the surgical handpiece and a second end which lead to a collection container, and a free flow valve, located along the evacuation line, for controlling the flow of fluid through the evacuation line, wherein the infusion reservoir is placed above the level of the eye and the level of the evacuation line so that, when the free flow valve is in the open position, infusion fluid is permitted to flow from the infusion reservoir into the eye, through the evacuation line and into the collection container.