The latest from across eye care — curated by B-Seen
LOS ANGELES—With the goal of providing its customer base with “the full experience,” DIFF Eyewear transitioned into physical retail with the launch of its initial storefront in Charleston, S.C. on October 10, 2026, marking a key milestone in its growth. Having established itself as a top U.S. women's eyewear brand over the last decade, DIFF is now expanding beyond its wholesale network and e-commerce platform with plans to open 30 new retail stores over the next three years to support its omnichannel strategy, one which has been top of mind for a while, Bob Ross, the company’s CEO told VMAIL in an exclusive interview.
ALISO VIEJO, Calif.—RxSight, Inc. (NASDAQ: RXST), an ophthalmic medical device company focused on improving vision after cataract surgery, yesterday announced two new leadership appointments, naming Taryn Conway as chief commercial officer and Frank Shields as executive vice president of sales and commercial strategy. The company described the moves as part of its broader commercial transformation and noted the appointments will strengthen RxSight’s commercial leadership team and support the company’s efforts to enhance commercial execution and accelerate adoption of RxSight’s light adjustable lens (LAL) technology.
BASEL, Switzerland—Pharmaceutical giant Roche (SIX: RO, ROP; OTCQX: RHHBY) has announced that Enspryng (satralizumab), an at-home subcutaneous treatment for adults with thyroid eye disease (TED), has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. The nod was based on phase 3 studies that demonstrated what the company said was a significant reduction in eye bulging and improvement in diplopia, with a favorable safety profile. A rare autoimmune disease, TED is said to affect 155 out of every 100,000 people in the U.S. and can lead to vision-threatening complications if left untreated.
Biomarkers visible on OCT angiography could help detect progression through the stages of diabetic retinopathy, according to data published in Frontiers in Ophthalmology. “Several studies have demonstrated the utility of OCT-A in characterizing the severity of DR using microvascular parameters,” Rachel Liu, a medical student at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, and colleagues wrote. “Despite these promising findings, there are limitations in the current body of literature. Most studies on OCT-A and DR have been cross-sectional, providing only a snapshot of
NEWARK, N.J.—A federal judge has certified a class action lawsuit against Hubble Contacts, a direct-to-consumer company that offers online contact lens subscription services, allowing California consumers to pursue claims that the online contact lens subscription company allegedly sold them lenses different from those prescribed by their eye doctors. U.S. District Judge George H. Wu of the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California granted class certification in Africa v. Vision Path Inc., a lawsuit against the New York-based company that operates Hubble’s subscription service and sells Hubble-brand contact lenses. Court records identify more than 95,500 California customers who purchased the company’s lenses.
Click here to read the Healio Exclusive, “Practice good ergonomics early in career to avoid work-related injuries.” Now that I am in the middle of my career and approaching 51 years old, I feel like my body does not bounce back as well as it used to. I feel more tension in my back and sometimes in my shoulders. I used to be able to see patients all week, operate and feel great. I would not say I feel terrible at the end of the week, but I also know there has been a change over the last couple of years. As I have gotten more established in my career, I have gotten busier. I am doing longer
Lumenis has introduced a new perioperative ocular surface care field guide designed to help cataract and refractive surgeons identify and manage ocular surface disease that may contribute to the “unhappy 20/20 patient.” The resource is titled “Preventing 20/Unhappy: A Field Guide for Cataract and Refractive Surgeons.”
For ophthalmologists, occupational pain can start early. For Cynthia Matossian, MD, FACS, discomfort arose fewer than 5 years into her career. She said surgeons often find themselves in similar positions over the course of their routine work, and repeated motions can wear people down. “There were two areas that I noticed were bothering me after being hunched over the slit lamp day in, day out, week in, week out, and after being in the OR for long days of surgery,” she said. “Those two areas were my neck and upper back area around my shoulder blades.” The discomfort got so bad that she knew if
NEW YORK—EYECON has announced its return to New York City with its 2027 edition, scheduled for March 5-7, 2027, at The Glasshouse. The experience will be centered around the theme “Reframing Eyewear’s Place in Fashion & Tech,” show organizers said, and will build upon the success of its first two editions. A curated eyewear platform, EYECON aims to challenge the traditional trade show model, creating a discovery-first experience that positions eyewear at the intersection of fashion, design, technology and culture, show organizers noted.
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.—Opus Genetics, Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing gene therapies to restore vision and prevent blindness in patients with inherited retinal diseases (IRDs), announced that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for phentolamine ophthalmic solution 0.75% for the treatment of age-related presbyopia in adults. This approval expands the indication for the product, which has been marketed in the U.S. as RYZUMVI for the treatment of pharmacologically induced mydriasis.
NEWARK, N.J.—Although World Sight Day 2026 has officially concluded, its enduring impact on advancing accessible and affordable vision care on a global basis remains ongoing. Led by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), this year’s initiative again called on the eye health community to rally behind the global #LoveYourEyes campaign. The initiative, which was originally launched as part of World Sight Day in 2021, is now a year-round program to raise the profile of eye health across the globe.
VANCOUVER, B.C.—Kits Eyecare Ltd. (TSX: KITS), a leading vertically integrated eyecare provider, announced that co-founder Joseph Thompson has transitioned from chief operating officer to an advisory role with the company. "When Joe and I first sat down over coffee at Kits Beach to talk about building a business together, it was just the two of us as co-founders and an idea,” said Roger Hardy, co-founder, chairman and CEO. “Over the past eight years, we've grown to more than 200 teammates. That team has delivered more than 5 million orders, now serves more than 1.1 million active customers and has surpassed a $250 million annualized revenue run rate."
ST. LOUIS—The AOA Foundation/Optometry Cares and PERC Alliance have announced that applications are now open for the 2027 Golden Opportunity Award, which will provide $50,000 each to up to three doctors of optometry pursuing independent practice ownership.
A 23-year-old man presented with redness in the right eye for 2 days after a bee sting. On examination, his visual acuity was 20/20. Anterior segment examination showed conjunctival congestion with corneal stromal infiltrate at the limbus from 2 to 3 o'clock, with intact epithelium. Anterior chamber was deep, with partial heterochromia of iris nasally, pharmacologically dilated pupil, and clear lens (A). Intraocular pressure was 14 mmHg. Gonioscopy revealed a bee stinger in the nasal angle (B). Posterior segment examination was normal.
The traditional priorities in retinoblastoma treatment are guided by a simple trinity: first, save the life; second, preserve the eye while not placing the child at undue risk; and third, preserve useful vision. Because globe-preserving therapy has become more effective, particularly with intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC), we have appropriately moved toward attempting to save ever more advanced eyes.
The FDA approved a supplemental new drug application for Ryzumvi, a preservative-free eye drop, for the treatment of presbyopia. “Presbyopia affects approximately 90% of Americans over age 45, making everyday activities like reading, using smartphones and working on computers increasingly difficult. Many patients rely on reading glasses or other corrective lenses, creating a significant need for convenient, noninvasive treatment options,” George Magrath, MD, MBA, MS, CEO of Opus Genetics, told Healio. “Phentolamine ophthalmic solution 0.75% offers a pharmacological alternative designed to
Editor’s note: This is a developing news story. Please check back soon for updates. The FDA approved Brytly, a nonprescription eye drop for the relief of eye redness from minor irritations, according to a press release. Brytly (apraclonidine ophthalmic solution, 0.125%, Alcon) is approved for people aged 12 and older and is meant to be used no more than two times per day. Contact lenses should be removed prior to use, and users should wait at least 10 minutes after applying the drops before reinserting their contacts. Users should also wait 5 minutes before applying other eye drops. The
Anti-VEGF injections before cataract surgery may protect eyes with retinal vein occlusion from developing postoperative macular edema, according to data published in BMC Ophthalmology. “Patients with [retinal vein occlusion] and concurrent cataract have been shown to benefit from cataract extraction to significantly improve visual outcomes,” Kevin Dahlan, MD, of the department of ophthalmology at Stony Brook University Hospital, and colleagues wrote. “However, [cataract extraction] poses challenges, as it significantly increases the risk of postoperative macular edema in
The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has published Issue 92 of Contact Lens Update, focusing on the role of contact lens handling in successful wear and its influence on patient dropout. The bimonthly publication is available free of charge at ContactLensUpdate.com.
Editor’s note: This is a developing story. Please check back soon for comments. The FDA approved Enspryng, an interleukin-6 inhibitor, for at-home subcutaneous treatment of thyroid eye disease, according to a press release from Genentech. The approval was supported by findings from the phase 3 SatraGO program in thyroid eye disease (TED). In patients with active and chronic moderate to severe TED, the SatraGO-2 trial demonstrated a “significant and clinically meaningful difference” of 52.9% in proptosis response and 60.7% in diplopia reduction with Enspryng vs. 23.4% and 25.8%, respectively, in
Counterfeit versions of over-the-counter eye drops have been found in Florida and Georgia in stores serving primarily Spanish-speaking customers. These products also may be in Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina and potentially other states.
CDER Statement: FDA Approves New Nonprescription Eye Drop for Relief of Eye Redness
As America’s population ages, dementia is becoming an increasingly urgent public health concern. More than 6 million people in the U.S. are living with the condition, and researchers estimate that 42 percent of Americans over age 55 will eventually develop dementia, according to the National Institutes of Health. But dementia affects more than memory and cognition, with experts noting that it can also impact vision, and that, in some cases, vision impairment may even contribute to the risk of developing dementia. Karen Michaelson, ABOC, founder of Kare Consulting LLC and Eyes on Dementia is working to help ECPs better understand the dementia-vision loss connection.
MIAMI—Sunglass Hut and the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation, in collaboration with Chapman Partnership, an emergency housing provider, announced that they held a five-day community vision clinic on Oct. 5-9 in Miami-Dade County, Fla. During the clinic, the organizations said 667 children and adults experiencing homelessness and housing instability received free comprehensive eye exams from licensed optometrists, as well as prescription glasses. Supported by volunteers, the clinic brought essential vision care directly to individuals and families who may otherwise have limited access to eye exams and prescription eyewear, the announcement stated.
NEWARK, N.J.—The national average for gross revenue at ECP locations decreased last month, September 2026, when compared with the previous month, at a rate of -8 index points. That places gross revenue at a level -2 index points below where it was at this point in time when compared with last year (September 2025), 12 points above the same period in 2024, 17 points above 2023, 20 points above 2022, 25 points above 2021, 30 points above 2020 and 50 points above 2019, according to Jobson’s most recent Practice Performance Tracker.
MONTREAL and OCCITANIE, France—French eyewear manufacturer Octika has entered an exclusive partnership with WestGroupe to introduce Osmose, its premium eyewear brand, to the North American eyewear market beginning in January 2027. Osmose was developed in Octika’s product hub in Occitanie, France, and is built around a signature 3-in-1 concept that transforms a single frame through interchangeable magnetic clips, the companies said in an announcement. Each Osmose style is paired with two magnetic clips designed to enhance both performance and aesthetics.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala.—Kelly K. Nichols, OD, Ph.D., dean of the School of Optometry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), has been named Alabama Educator of the Year by the Alabama Optometric Association. The award is presented annually to a qualified Alabama doctor of optometry in recognition of their performance of outstanding services on behalf of the profession, optometric education, and the visual welfare of the public. “It is truly an honor to be named the ALOA Educator of the Year. I am deeply grateful for this recognition and for the opportunity to contribute to the education and growth of future optometrists in Alabama and beyond,” Dr. Nichols said in an announcement from the school.
NEW ORLEANS — Oku Digital Health, which was recently launched from Topcon Healthcare, will use a network of more than 10,000 healthcare locations for early disease detection through routine eye exams, according to a press release. Oculomics is the use of ocular biomarkers to monitor for development of diseases. {{VIDEO}} At the American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting, Ali Tafreshi, CEO of Oku, told Healio that the company’s primary goal is to use this emerging field to address the healthcare cost crisis in the U.S. and globally. “We’ve been planting the seeds for what we call ‘healthcare from
Faricimab showed a positive treatment effect for up to 6 months in patients with macular edema due to retinal vein occlusion, according to data published in Ophthalmology and Therapy. “Due to the very recent approval of faricimab for [macular edema] secondary to [retinal vein occlusion], and consequent restrictions on cost reimbursement by health systems, real-world data have been limited so far, and the first reports have only recently begun to emerge,” Katharina Heck, FMH, FEBO, of the Vista Augenklinik Binningen in Switzerland, and colleagues wrote. For a real-world look at
NEW ORLEANS — Verily Health has partnered with Bausch + Lomb to expand Verily Me, its consumer health app, into eye health for the first time. The launch adds personalized risk and symptom education, an AI-guided symptom conversation with AI agent “Vi,” and an overview of treatment options for dry eye disease. An estimated 150 million U.S. adults experience occasional or frequent dry eye symptoms, and about 38 million live with diagnosed dry eye disease. {{VIDEO}} “This is a disease that affects tens of millions of people, and there's a disconnect sometimes between what people are diagnosed with
As luxury shoppers become more selective, De Rigo is betting on consistency over the latest craze. 20/20 Europe speaks with chief marketing officer Barbara De Rigo on what keeps consumers investing, balancing heritage with innovation and why chasing trends is rarely a recipe for staying power.
NEWARK, N.J—The latest digital issue of Vision Monday, which is live now here, spotlights the efforts made across the optical industry in sustainability. From independent practices to frame brands and suppliers, the cover topic explores how sustainability is increasingly being viewed as a smart investment that can strengthen operations, enhance consumer confidence and create meaningful local impact, rather than being driven solely by lofty ideals or marketing buzz. As the story noted, “…the question in 2026 isn’t whether to engage with sustainability—it’s how to do it in a way that holds up to scrutiny from customers, investors and the company’s own finance team.”
What’s New: Blackfin presents the Fall/Winter 2026 collection from Blackfin Atlantic, an evolution of the brand’s premium offerings.
What’s New: Maui Jim, from Kering Eyewear, introduces Miona, a high-performance toric shield designed for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.
NEW YORK, N.Y.—Amazon Web Services (AWS) bestowed its 2026 Children’s Health Innovation Award on the global eyecare nonprofit Orbis International, supporting Orbis’ initiative to screen premature neonates in India and Vietnam for retinopathy of prematurity. Orbis will receive AWS Imagine Grant funding, as well as AWS computing credits and project implementation technical support, according to an announcement from the nonprofit. Orbis was named a recipient in the Children's Health Innovation Award category, which recognizes highly innovative, mission-critical projects accelerating children's health innovation using advanced cloud services.
WATERLOO, Ontario—The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has launched Issue 92 of Contact Lens Update focused on contact lens handling and its potential impact on successful lens wear and dropout rates. “Contact lens handling is an essential part of the patient experience and can significantly influence confidence, satisfaction and long-term wear,” said Daddi Fadel, adjunct assistant professor at the University of Waterloo and a consultant for CORE. “Difficulties with application, removal, or lens care may contribute to frustration and ultimately discontinuation. Effective handling education should be considered an integral component of contact lens care.”
An 8-year-old boy was found to have a right macular abnormality during routine screening. Best-corrected visual acuity was 20/20. Fundus photography showed 2 foveal reflexes (A). OCT angiography revealed an additional area of reduced capillary density temporal to the foveal avascular zone (B). Three-dimensional OCT reconstruction and the corresponding B-scan (C, bottom) showed an accessory depression adjacent to the primary fovea. Microperimetry showed fixation at the primary fovea, with measurable sensitivity near the temporal accessory depression (D).
A 35-year-old woman was referred by her optometrist for a neuro-ophthalmology evaluation for left optic disc edema and transient visual symptoms in the left eye. Her medical and ocular histories were notable for elevated BMI but were otherwise unremarkable. She was not taking any prescribed or over-the-counter medications at that time. Approximately 1 year before presentation, she began experiencing severe left retro-orbital pain that gradually decreased in severity over several months but otherwise remained. At the same time, she began experiencing intermittent, transient episodes of blurred
OCT angiography may help detect glaucoma progression earlier than standard OCT or visual field exams, although its specificity was lower than that of structural OCT, according to data published in JAMA Ophthalmology. “Glaucoma progression is commonly monitored with structural OCT and visual field testing, but these tests do not always show progression at the same time,” Takashi Nishida, MD, PhD, associate project scientist at the Shiley Eye Institute, told Healio. “We conducted this study to compare when progression is detected by OCT-A, structural OCT and visual field
Marcolin and TBL Licensing LLC have extended their licensing agreement for Timberland eyewear until 2031. The five-year renewal, announced on October 12, covers the design, production and worldwide distribution of Timberland optical frames and sunglasses. The partnership began in 2003. According to the two companies, the renewal reflects mutual trust and a shared long-term commitment.
NEW YORK—HOUSE of MODO has expanded its leadership team in America to support its continued growth across the region, the company announced. Tara Martins Montoneri has been appointed chief operating officer (COO), and Brian Dombrowski was named director of business development, both effective immediately. Dombrowski previously served as HOUSE of MODO’s director of ECP sales and marketing. Martins Montoneri retains her position as CEO of HOUSE of MODO’s M Factory USA alongside this new role of COO, the company said.
ROCHESTER, N.Y.—CooperVision, a division of CooperCompanies (Nasdaq:COO), and a leading manufacturers of contact lenses, has strengthened its U.S. professional affairs team with three new team members and two leadership promotions, expanding the company’s expertise across professional education, academic affairs, scientific affairs, core portfolio and cornea care, and operational support. The updated leadership structure is designed to better align specialized expertise and resources with overall business priorities, enhancing ongoing support for ECPs, academic partners, and the broader optometric industry, the company noted.
HARRISBURG, Pa.—Nearly 200 children and adults will receive free eye exams on October 16-17, 2026, thanks to a partnership between The Salvation Army Harrisburg Capital City Region, the Pennsylvania Optometric Association (POA), and VSP Eyes of Hope. Most patients served will be school-aged children and optometrists will conduct on-site eye exams as volunteers at the Salvation Army, according to an announcement from VSP. Participants whose exams show a need for vision correction will be provided with free prescription glasses through this initiative.
At the Alliance for Healthcare from the Eye Meeting, AOA leaders emphasized why doctors of optometry are central to turning advances in AI, retinal imaging and connected care into better patient outcomes.
To determine long-term visual and ocular outcomes in a large cohort of patients with choroidal melanoma treated using palladium-103 (103Pd) plaque brachytherapy.
Home tonometry devices were linked to decreased patient anxiety and increased doctor confidence, although financial cost and skepticism about reliability remain major barriers, according to data published in Journal of Glaucoma. “While the potential of [home tonometry] is evident, this technology has not been broadly integrated into clinical practices, despite its conception dating back over half a century,” Jeffrey Liu, MD, of the department of ophthalmology at Duke University Medical Center, and colleagues wrote. “The limited adoption of [home tonometry] suggests that
NEW ORLEANS — In the high-stakes environment of ocular surgery, stress management is a trainable skill that can be improved with strategic planning and practice, according to a speaker. At the American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting, Erin S. Seefeldt, MD, an ophthalmologist and founder of Physician Performance Lab, highlighted the scope of burnout among physicians. A survey of 592 participants found that 37% of U.S. ophthalmologists reported burnout symptoms, which can serve as a career-ending factor for a number of clinicians. However, Seefeldt said that combatting it is practical. “This
Optometry Giving Sight (OGS) announces the recipients of its 2026 grant cycle, awarding nearly $1 million to 20 organizations working to bring sustainable primary eyecare to communities around the world, from optometry schools in Somaliland and Cambodia to school eye health programs in Uganda and Jordan.
Click here to read the Healio Exclusive, “Expert panel examines myopia control spectacle lenses, pediatric imaging.” Pediatric progressive myopia is now treatable. Every eye doctor who sees children in their practice needs to be knowledgeable in this area as treatment options are expanding and improving. This is a field of special personal interest, and I disclose that I am active on the boards of directors and/or medical advisory boards for companies that target this treatment vertical. The incidence of pediatric progressive myopia (PPM) is growing worldwide. In the U.S. in 1980, when I started
Click here to read the Healio Exclusive, “Expert panel examines myopia control spectacle lenses, pediatric imaging.” Pediatric progressive myopia is now treatable. Every eye doctor who sees children in their practice needs to be knowledgeable in this area as treatment options are expanding and improving. This is a field of special personal interest, and I disclose that I am active on the boards of directors and/or medical advisory boards for companies that target this treatment vertical. The incidence of pediatric progressive myopia (PPM) is growing worldwide. In the U.S. in 1980, when I started
LOS ANGELES—With the goal of providing its customer base with “the full experience,” DIFF Eyewear transitioned into physical retail with the launch of its initial storefront in Charleston, S.C. on October 10, 2026, marking a key milestone in its growth. Having established itself as a top U.S. women's eyewear brand over the last decade, DIFF is now expanding beyond its wholesale network and e-commerce platform with plans to open 30 new retail stores over the next three years to support its omnichannel strategy, one which has been top of mind for a while, Bob Ross, the company’s CEO told VMAIL in an exclusive interview.
ALISO VIEJO, Calif.—RxSight, Inc. (NASDAQ: RXST), an ophthalmic medical device company focused on improving vision after cataract surgery, yesterday announced two new leadership appointments, naming Taryn Conway as chief commercial officer and Frank Shields as executive vice president of sales and commercial strategy. The company described the moves as part of its broader commercial transformation and noted the appointments will strengthen RxSight’s commercial leadership team and support the company’s efforts to enhance commercial execution and accelerate adoption of RxSight’s light adjustable lens (LAL) technology.
BASEL, Switzerland—Pharmaceutical giant Roche (SIX: RO, ROP; OTCQX: RHHBY) has announced that Enspryng (satralizumab), an at-home subcutaneous treatment for adults with thyroid eye disease (TED), has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. The nod was based on phase 3 studies that demonstrated what the company said was a significant reduction in eye bulging and improvement in diplopia, with a favorable safety profile. A rare autoimmune disease, TED is said to affect 155 out of every 100,000 people in the U.S. and can lead to vision-threatening complications if left untreated.
Biomarkers visible on OCT angiography could help detect progression through the stages of diabetic retinopathy, according to data published in Frontiers in Ophthalmology. “Several studies have demonstrated the utility of OCT-A in characterizing the severity of DR using microvascular parameters,” Rachel Liu, a medical student at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, and colleagues wrote. “Despite these promising findings, there are limitations in the current body of literature. Most studies on OCT-A and DR have been cross-sectional, providing only a snapshot of
NEWARK, N.J.—A federal judge has certified a class action lawsuit against Hubble Contacts, a direct-to-consumer company that offers online contact lens subscription services, allowing California consumers to pursue claims that the online contact lens subscription company allegedly sold them lenses different from those prescribed by their eye doctors. U.S. District Judge George H. Wu of the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California granted class certification in Africa v. Vision Path Inc., a lawsuit against the New York-based company that operates Hubble’s subscription service and sells Hubble-brand contact lenses. Court records identify more than 95,500 California customers who purchased the company’s lenses.
Click here to read the Healio Exclusive, “Practice good ergonomics early in career to avoid work-related injuries.” Now that I am in the middle of my career and approaching 51 years old, I feel like my body does not bounce back as well as it used to. I feel more tension in my back and sometimes in my shoulders. I used to be able to see patients all week, operate and feel great. I would not say I feel terrible at the end of the week, but I also know there has been a change over the last couple of years. As I have gotten more established in my career, I have gotten busier. I am doing longer
Lumenis has introduced a new perioperative ocular surface care field guide designed to help cataract and refractive surgeons identify and manage ocular surface disease that may contribute to the “unhappy 20/20 patient.” The resource is titled “Preventing 20/Unhappy: A Field Guide for Cataract and Refractive Surgeons.”
For ophthalmologists, occupational pain can start early. For Cynthia Matossian, MD, FACS, discomfort arose fewer than 5 years into her career. She said surgeons often find themselves in similar positions over the course of their routine work, and repeated motions can wear people down. “There were two areas that I noticed were bothering me after being hunched over the slit lamp day in, day out, week in, week out, and after being in the OR for long days of surgery,” she said. “Those two areas were my neck and upper back area around my shoulder blades.” The discomfort got so bad that she knew if
NEW YORK—EYECON has announced its return to New York City with its 2027 edition, scheduled for March 5-7, 2027, at The Glasshouse. The experience will be centered around the theme “Reframing Eyewear’s Place in Fashion & Tech,” show organizers said, and will build upon the success of its first two editions. A curated eyewear platform, EYECON aims to challenge the traditional trade show model, creating a discovery-first experience that positions eyewear at the intersection of fashion, design, technology and culture, show organizers noted.
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.—Opus Genetics, Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing gene therapies to restore vision and prevent blindness in patients with inherited retinal diseases (IRDs), announced that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for phentolamine ophthalmic solution 0.75% for the treatment of age-related presbyopia in adults. This approval expands the indication for the product, which has been marketed in the U.S. as RYZUMVI for the treatment of pharmacologically induced mydriasis.
NEWARK, N.J.—Although World Sight Day 2026 has officially concluded, its enduring impact on advancing accessible and affordable vision care on a global basis remains ongoing. Led by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), this year’s initiative again called on the eye health community to rally behind the global #LoveYourEyes campaign. The initiative, which was originally launched as part of World Sight Day in 2021, is now a year-round program to raise the profile of eye health across the globe.
VANCOUVER, B.C.—Kits Eyecare Ltd. (TSX: KITS), a leading vertically integrated eyecare provider, announced that co-founder Joseph Thompson has transitioned from chief operating officer to an advisory role with the company. "When Joe and I first sat down over coffee at Kits Beach to talk about building a business together, it was just the two of us as co-founders and an idea,” said Roger Hardy, co-founder, chairman and CEO. “Over the past eight years, we've grown to more than 200 teammates. That team has delivered more than 5 million orders, now serves more than 1.1 million active customers and has surpassed a $250 million annualized revenue run rate."
ST. LOUIS—The AOA Foundation/Optometry Cares and PERC Alliance have announced that applications are now open for the 2027 Golden Opportunity Award, which will provide $50,000 each to up to three doctors of optometry pursuing independent practice ownership.
A 23-year-old man presented with redness in the right eye for 2 days after a bee sting. On examination, his visual acuity was 20/20. Anterior segment examination showed conjunctival congestion with corneal stromal infiltrate at the limbus from 2 to 3 o'clock, with intact epithelium. Anterior chamber was deep, with partial heterochromia of iris nasally, pharmacologically dilated pupil, and clear lens (A). Intraocular pressure was 14 mmHg. Gonioscopy revealed a bee stinger in the nasal angle (B). Posterior segment examination was normal.
The traditional priorities in retinoblastoma treatment are guided by a simple trinity: first, save the life; second, preserve the eye while not placing the child at undue risk; and third, preserve useful vision. Because globe-preserving therapy has become more effective, particularly with intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC), we have appropriately moved toward attempting to save ever more advanced eyes.
The FDA approved a supplemental new drug application for Ryzumvi, a preservative-free eye drop, for the treatment of presbyopia. “Presbyopia affects approximately 90% of Americans over age 45, making everyday activities like reading, using smartphones and working on computers increasingly difficult. Many patients rely on reading glasses or other corrective lenses, creating a significant need for convenient, noninvasive treatment options,” George Magrath, MD, MBA, MS, CEO of Opus Genetics, told Healio. “Phentolamine ophthalmic solution 0.75% offers a pharmacological alternative designed to
Editor’s note: This is a developing news story. Please check back soon for updates. The FDA approved Brytly, a nonprescription eye drop for the relief of eye redness from minor irritations, according to a press release. Brytly (apraclonidine ophthalmic solution, 0.125%, Alcon) is approved for people aged 12 and older and is meant to be used no more than two times per day. Contact lenses should be removed prior to use, and users should wait at least 10 minutes after applying the drops before reinserting their contacts. Users should also wait 5 minutes before applying other eye drops. The
Anti-VEGF injections before cataract surgery may protect eyes with retinal vein occlusion from developing postoperative macular edema, according to data published in BMC Ophthalmology. “Patients with [retinal vein occlusion] and concurrent cataract have been shown to benefit from cataract extraction to significantly improve visual outcomes,” Kevin Dahlan, MD, of the department of ophthalmology at Stony Brook University Hospital, and colleagues wrote. “However, [cataract extraction] poses challenges, as it significantly increases the risk of postoperative macular edema in
The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has published Issue 92 of Contact Lens Update, focusing on the role of contact lens handling in successful wear and its influence on patient dropout. The bimonthly publication is available free of charge at ContactLensUpdate.com.
Editor’s note: This is a developing story. Please check back soon for comments. The FDA approved Enspryng, an interleukin-6 inhibitor, for at-home subcutaneous treatment of thyroid eye disease, according to a press release from Genentech. The approval was supported by findings from the phase 3 SatraGO program in thyroid eye disease (TED). In patients with active and chronic moderate to severe TED, the SatraGO-2 trial demonstrated a “significant and clinically meaningful difference” of 52.9% in proptosis response and 60.7% in diplopia reduction with Enspryng vs. 23.4% and 25.8%, respectively, in
Counterfeit versions of over-the-counter eye drops have been found in Florida and Georgia in stores serving primarily Spanish-speaking customers. These products also may be in Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina and potentially other states.
CDER Statement: FDA Approves New Nonprescription Eye Drop for Relief of Eye Redness
As America’s population ages, dementia is becoming an increasingly urgent public health concern. More than 6 million people in the U.S. are living with the condition, and researchers estimate that 42 percent of Americans over age 55 will eventually develop dementia, according to the National Institutes of Health. But dementia affects more than memory and cognition, with experts noting that it can also impact vision, and that, in some cases, vision impairment may even contribute to the risk of developing dementia. Karen Michaelson, ABOC, founder of Kare Consulting LLC and Eyes on Dementia is working to help ECPs better understand the dementia-vision loss connection.
MIAMI—Sunglass Hut and the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation, in collaboration with Chapman Partnership, an emergency housing provider, announced that they held a five-day community vision clinic on Oct. 5-9 in Miami-Dade County, Fla. During the clinic, the organizations said 667 children and adults experiencing homelessness and housing instability received free comprehensive eye exams from licensed optometrists, as well as prescription glasses. Supported by volunteers, the clinic brought essential vision care directly to individuals and families who may otherwise have limited access to eye exams and prescription eyewear, the announcement stated.
NEWARK, N.J.—The national average for gross revenue at ECP locations decreased last month, September 2026, when compared with the previous month, at a rate of -8 index points. That places gross revenue at a level -2 index points below where it was at this point in time when compared with last year (September 2025), 12 points above the same period in 2024, 17 points above 2023, 20 points above 2022, 25 points above 2021, 30 points above 2020 and 50 points above 2019, according to Jobson’s most recent Practice Performance Tracker.
MONTREAL and OCCITANIE, France—French eyewear manufacturer Octika has entered an exclusive partnership with WestGroupe to introduce Osmose, its premium eyewear brand, to the North American eyewear market beginning in January 2027. Osmose was developed in Octika’s product hub in Occitanie, France, and is built around a signature 3-in-1 concept that transforms a single frame through interchangeable magnetic clips, the companies said in an announcement. Each Osmose style is paired with two magnetic clips designed to enhance both performance and aesthetics.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala.—Kelly K. Nichols, OD, Ph.D., dean of the School of Optometry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), has been named Alabama Educator of the Year by the Alabama Optometric Association. The award is presented annually to a qualified Alabama doctor of optometry in recognition of their performance of outstanding services on behalf of the profession, optometric education, and the visual welfare of the public. “It is truly an honor to be named the ALOA Educator of the Year. I am deeply grateful for this recognition and for the opportunity to contribute to the education and growth of future optometrists in Alabama and beyond,” Dr. Nichols said in an announcement from the school.
NEW ORLEANS — Oku Digital Health, which was recently launched from Topcon Healthcare, will use a network of more than 10,000 healthcare locations for early disease detection through routine eye exams, according to a press release. Oculomics is the use of ocular biomarkers to monitor for development of diseases. {{VIDEO}} At the American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting, Ali Tafreshi, CEO of Oku, told Healio that the company’s primary goal is to use this emerging field to address the healthcare cost crisis in the U.S. and globally. “We’ve been planting the seeds for what we call ‘healthcare from
Faricimab showed a positive treatment effect for up to 6 months in patients with macular edema due to retinal vein occlusion, according to data published in Ophthalmology and Therapy. “Due to the very recent approval of faricimab for [macular edema] secondary to [retinal vein occlusion], and consequent restrictions on cost reimbursement by health systems, real-world data have been limited so far, and the first reports have only recently begun to emerge,” Katharina Heck, FMH, FEBO, of the Vista Augenklinik Binningen in Switzerland, and colleagues wrote. For a real-world look at
NEW ORLEANS — Verily Health has partnered with Bausch + Lomb to expand Verily Me, its consumer health app, into eye health for the first time. The launch adds personalized risk and symptom education, an AI-guided symptom conversation with AI agent “Vi,” and an overview of treatment options for dry eye disease. An estimated 150 million U.S. adults experience occasional or frequent dry eye symptoms, and about 38 million live with diagnosed dry eye disease. {{VIDEO}} “This is a disease that affects tens of millions of people, and there's a disconnect sometimes between what people are diagnosed with
As luxury shoppers become more selective, De Rigo is betting on consistency over the latest craze. 20/20 Europe speaks with chief marketing officer Barbara De Rigo on what keeps consumers investing, balancing heritage with innovation and why chasing trends is rarely a recipe for staying power.
NEWARK, N.J—The latest digital issue of Vision Monday, which is live now here, spotlights the efforts made across the optical industry in sustainability. From independent practices to frame brands and suppliers, the cover topic explores how sustainability is increasingly being viewed as a smart investment that can strengthen operations, enhance consumer confidence and create meaningful local impact, rather than being driven solely by lofty ideals or marketing buzz. As the story noted, “…the question in 2026 isn’t whether to engage with sustainability—it’s how to do it in a way that holds up to scrutiny from customers, investors and the company’s own finance team.”
What’s New: Blackfin presents the Fall/Winter 2026 collection from Blackfin Atlantic, an evolution of the brand’s premium offerings.
What’s New: Maui Jim, from Kering Eyewear, introduces Miona, a high-performance toric shield designed for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.
NEW YORK, N.Y.—Amazon Web Services (AWS) bestowed its 2026 Children’s Health Innovation Award on the global eyecare nonprofit Orbis International, supporting Orbis’ initiative to screen premature neonates in India and Vietnam for retinopathy of prematurity. Orbis will receive AWS Imagine Grant funding, as well as AWS computing credits and project implementation technical support, according to an announcement from the nonprofit. Orbis was named a recipient in the Children's Health Innovation Award category, which recognizes highly innovative, mission-critical projects accelerating children's health innovation using advanced cloud services.
WATERLOO, Ontario—The Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) has launched Issue 92 of Contact Lens Update focused on contact lens handling and its potential impact on successful lens wear and dropout rates. “Contact lens handling is an essential part of the patient experience and can significantly influence confidence, satisfaction and long-term wear,” said Daddi Fadel, adjunct assistant professor at the University of Waterloo and a consultant for CORE. “Difficulties with application, removal, or lens care may contribute to frustration and ultimately discontinuation. Effective handling education should be considered an integral component of contact lens care.”
An 8-year-old boy was found to have a right macular abnormality during routine screening. Best-corrected visual acuity was 20/20. Fundus photography showed 2 foveal reflexes (A). OCT angiography revealed an additional area of reduced capillary density temporal to the foveal avascular zone (B). Three-dimensional OCT reconstruction and the corresponding B-scan (C, bottom) showed an accessory depression adjacent to the primary fovea. Microperimetry showed fixation at the primary fovea, with measurable sensitivity near the temporal accessory depression (D).
A 35-year-old woman was referred by her optometrist for a neuro-ophthalmology evaluation for left optic disc edema and transient visual symptoms in the left eye. Her medical and ocular histories were notable for elevated BMI but were otherwise unremarkable. She was not taking any prescribed or over-the-counter medications at that time. Approximately 1 year before presentation, she began experiencing severe left retro-orbital pain that gradually decreased in severity over several months but otherwise remained. At the same time, she began experiencing intermittent, transient episodes of blurred
OCT angiography may help detect glaucoma progression earlier than standard OCT or visual field exams, although its specificity was lower than that of structural OCT, according to data published in JAMA Ophthalmology. “Glaucoma progression is commonly monitored with structural OCT and visual field testing, but these tests do not always show progression at the same time,” Takashi Nishida, MD, PhD, associate project scientist at the Shiley Eye Institute, told Healio. “We conducted this study to compare when progression is detected by OCT-A, structural OCT and visual field
Marcolin and TBL Licensing LLC have extended their licensing agreement for Timberland eyewear until 2031. The five-year renewal, announced on October 12, covers the design, production and worldwide distribution of Timberland optical frames and sunglasses. The partnership began in 2003. According to the two companies, the renewal reflects mutual trust and a shared long-term commitment.
NEW YORK—HOUSE of MODO has expanded its leadership team in America to support its continued growth across the region, the company announced. Tara Martins Montoneri has been appointed chief operating officer (COO), and Brian Dombrowski was named director of business development, both effective immediately. Dombrowski previously served as HOUSE of MODO’s director of ECP sales and marketing. Martins Montoneri retains her position as CEO of HOUSE of MODO’s M Factory USA alongside this new role of COO, the company said.
ROCHESTER, N.Y.—CooperVision, a division of CooperCompanies (Nasdaq:COO), and a leading manufacturers of contact lenses, has strengthened its U.S. professional affairs team with three new team members and two leadership promotions, expanding the company’s expertise across professional education, academic affairs, scientific affairs, core portfolio and cornea care, and operational support. The updated leadership structure is designed to better align specialized expertise and resources with overall business priorities, enhancing ongoing support for ECPs, academic partners, and the broader optometric industry, the company noted.
HARRISBURG, Pa.—Nearly 200 children and adults will receive free eye exams on October 16-17, 2026, thanks to a partnership between The Salvation Army Harrisburg Capital City Region, the Pennsylvania Optometric Association (POA), and VSP Eyes of Hope. Most patients served will be school-aged children and optometrists will conduct on-site eye exams as volunteers at the Salvation Army, according to an announcement from VSP. Participants whose exams show a need for vision correction will be provided with free prescription glasses through this initiative.
At the Alliance for Healthcare from the Eye Meeting, AOA leaders emphasized why doctors of optometry are central to turning advances in AI, retinal imaging and connected care into better patient outcomes.
To determine long-term visual and ocular outcomes in a large cohort of patients with choroidal melanoma treated using palladium-103 (103Pd) plaque brachytherapy.
Home tonometry devices were linked to decreased patient anxiety and increased doctor confidence, although financial cost and skepticism about reliability remain major barriers, according to data published in Journal of Glaucoma. “While the potential of [home tonometry] is evident, this technology has not been broadly integrated into clinical practices, despite its conception dating back over half a century,” Jeffrey Liu, MD, of the department of ophthalmology at Duke University Medical Center, and colleagues wrote. “The limited adoption of [home tonometry] suggests that
NEW ORLEANS — In the high-stakes environment of ocular surgery, stress management is a trainable skill that can be improved with strategic planning and practice, according to a speaker. At the American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting, Erin S. Seefeldt, MD, an ophthalmologist and founder of Physician Performance Lab, highlighted the scope of burnout among physicians. A survey of 592 participants found that 37% of U.S. ophthalmologists reported burnout symptoms, which can serve as a career-ending factor for a number of clinicians. However, Seefeldt said that combatting it is practical. “This
Optometry Giving Sight (OGS) announces the recipients of its 2026 grant cycle, awarding nearly $1 million to 20 organizations working to bring sustainable primary eyecare to communities around the world, from optometry schools in Somaliland and Cambodia to school eye health programs in Uganda and Jordan.
Click here to read the Healio Exclusive, “Expert panel examines myopia control spectacle lenses, pediatric imaging.” Pediatric progressive myopia is now treatable. Every eye doctor who sees children in their practice needs to be knowledgeable in this area as treatment options are expanding and improving. This is a field of special personal interest, and I disclose that I am active on the boards of directors and/or medical advisory boards for companies that target this treatment vertical. The incidence of pediatric progressive myopia (PPM) is growing worldwide. In the U.S. in 1980, when I started
Click here to read the Healio Exclusive, “Expert panel examines myopia control spectacle lenses, pediatric imaging.” Pediatric progressive myopia is now treatable. Every eye doctor who sees children in their practice needs to be knowledgeable in this area as treatment options are expanding and improving. This is a field of special personal interest, and I disclose that I am active on the boards of directors and/or medical advisory boards for companies that target this treatment vertical. The incidence of pediatric progressive myopia (PPM) is growing worldwide. In the U.S. in 1980, when I started
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