East Grinstead became the UK hotspot for groundbreaking vision care as some of the biggest names in global ophthalmology gathered to mark the 30th anniversary of Centre for Sight.
The internationally recognised eye hospital, founded in 1996 by consultant ophthalmic surgeon Sheraz M Daya, hosted a specialist conference bringing together leading surgeons, clinicians, innovators and entrepreneurs to examine the future of sight saving and vision correcting treatment.
The one day event, “30 Years of Vision: Crafting the Next Decade”, took place at the weekend at Alexander House Hotel in West Sussex and explored how eyecare has been transformed over the past three decades and what patients can expect next from advances such as artificial intelligence, laser technology, advanced diagnostics and new models of care.
Centre for Sight has been at the forefront of refractive and cataract surgery in the UK for 30 years, building an international reputation for innovation, complex eyecare and patient first treatment.
The anniversary event brought global expertise to Sussex, putting East Grinstead firmly on the map as a centre for pioneering vision care. In the evening there will be a glamorous black-tie dinner with speech from Katie Piper, the TV presenter, author, campaigner and burns survivor who founded the Katie Piper Foundation and was successfully treated at Centre for Sight.
Sheraz M. Daya, medical director and founder of Centre for Sight, said: “Over the past 30 years ophthalmology has seen remarkable transformation driven by technology, research and the dedication of clinicians committed to improving vision and quality of life. This conference is an opportunity to reflect on that journey, share insights with colleagues and look ahead to the innovations that will define the next decade of patient care.”
The event created meaningful dialogue among ophthalmologists, surgeons and sector leaders with key highlights including:
Programme highlights include:
Technologies That Influence Change
This extended panel including global key opinion leaders such as Arthur Cummings, Erik Mertens, Andrew Webb and Aylin Kiliç, will examine the technologies that have transformed refractive and cataract surgery over the past three decades. Speakers will reflect on the evolution of diagnostics, femtosecond lasers and surgical planning tools, while also looking ahead to the growing role of artificial intelligence and advanced imaging in improving clinical decision making and surgical outcomes.
Ophthalpreneurs Session – What’s Missing?
Led by Amanda Carones and Francesco Carones, this discussion will focus on the entrepreneurial side of ophthalmology. Panellists will explore where innovation is still needed across patient experience, technology development and practice management, and how clinicians can help drive meaningful change both inside and outside the operating theatre.
Influences Over the Next 10 Years
This forward-looking session will examine the trends expected to shape ophthalmology over the next decade. Hear from leading international experts such as Milind Pande, Michael Mrochen, Pei-Fen Lin and Andrea Russo, with topics including the impact of AI, private equity investment in healthcare, evolving patient expectations and the implications of longer life expectancy on demand for vision correction and cataract care.
Founded in 1996 by Sheraz Daya, who has performed over 35,000 cataract procedures and similar number of laser eye procedures, Centre for Sight combines world-class clinical expertise with a patient-first approach. Rated 97% five stars on Trustpilot, the centre is known for its individualised care, safety-first protocols, and around-the-clock patient support.
For more information, visit: https://www.centreforsight.com/
