Staar Opens New Experience Center to Meet Growing Surgeon Demand

Staar Surgical announced the expansion of its Staar Surgical Experience Center near John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Lake Forest, California.

The new center aims to provide comprehensive, hands-on training and education in lens-based vision correction. Staar says the expansion comes in response to the rising global demand for EVO ICL, driven by the escalating prevalence of myopia, which now affects 42% of Americans, having doubled over the past three decades. Staar said it expects to sell more ICLs between 2024 and 2026 than in the first 25 years of ICL sales combined.

“We are thrilled to open our expanded Experience Center, offering cutting-edge resources and training for ophthalmic professionals,” Tom Frinzi, President and CEO of Staar Surgical, said in a company news release. “The center reflects our commitment to supporting the growing demand for EVO ICL and advancing its global adoption.”

The new Staar Surgical Experience Center will serve as a hub for ophthalmologists, optometrists, and support staff, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to enhance patient outcomes with EVO ICL. The center features advanced technology to provide both in-person and virtual training. Highlights of the facility include:

• Immersive Wet Lab Training: Equipped to host up to 24 practitioners at once, the wet lab provides hands-on experience in EVO ICL procedures, supplemented by seating for 59 attendees during lectures.
• Stella: STAAR’s latest innovation in the ICL planning and ordering process, streamlining the workflow for practitioners.
• Diagnostic Technology Demonstrations: Cutting-edge devices like the Oculus Pentacam AXL Wave, IOLMaster 700, and Cirrus 6000 will be available for advanced diagnostic training.
• 4K Video Array: A 120-inch video array for video conferencing and live remote surgery streaming, enhancing the immersive learning experience.

The Experience Center will officially open its doors on September 26 with a grand opening event. Attendees will include local ophthalmic surgeons, EVO ICL patients, and Staar's senior leadership team, including President and CEO Tom Frinzi, COO Warren Foust, and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Scott Barnes.