The invention relates to a visco-elastic composition for use in ocular surgery and to a method of using said composition. Specifically, the present visco-elastic composition comprises a visco-elastic substance and at least one vital dye. The invention enables a visual distinction of the visco-elastic composition from the surrounding aqueous or intraocular structures during ocular surgery, so that the amount present within the eye, the location and the effects of the visco-elastic material can be better monitored.