R ARIVANANTHAM
CHENNAI, MAY 3
The 16th edition of Reticon 2026, the flagship retina conference organised by Dr Agarwals Retina Foundation, brought together over 1,000 delegates and around 50 global experts in Chennai, reinforcing its stature as a premier platform for advancing vitreoretinal science and innovation.
The conference was inaugurated by C Sridhar, Vice Chancellor of Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research, in the presence of Amar Agarwal, Ashvin Agarwal and Manoj Khatri.
- Global Retina Experts Converge in Chennai to Shape Next-Gen Eye Care
- Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital Showcases Breakthrough Pinhole Pupilloplasty Technique
- 1000+ Delegates, 50 Speakers Drive Scientific Exchange in Vitreoretinal Advances
- Wet Labs, Debates and Premier League Format Elevate Hands-On Learning
- Expansion Vision: 1000 Centres Targeted as Innovation Meets Accessibility
A Platform Driving Clinical Excellence
Reticon 2026 delivered a comprehensive scientific programme spanning medical and surgical retina, with focused sessions on retinal vascular diseases, cutting-edge surgical techniques, and evolving clinical practices. Hands-on wet lab sessions in Glued IOL, SFT and intravitreal injections, along with panel discussions and debates, enriched the learning experience.
“We take great pride in organizing Reticon year after year and witnessing its evolution into a distinguished platform for retina specialists, educators, and researchers worldwide. Reticon embodies this vision by uniting top minds to share knowledge and foster innovation. With a distinguished lineup of speakers and thousands of participants, this conference provides a unique opportunity for vitreoretinal specialists, fellows, postgraduates, and general ophthalmologists to explore the latest advancements in techniques, technologies, and treatment strategies. Our goal is to empower clinicians to improve patient outcomes through ongoing education and global collaboration,” said Prof Amar Agarwal.
Innovation that Redefines Possibilities
Addressing the media on the sidelines, Prof Amar Agarwal highlighted a pioneering advancement:
“The Agarwals Eye Hospital, front-runner in innovation will introduce Pinhole Pupilloplasty (PPP) developed by Dr. Amar Agarwal, the technique involves creating a small (approx. 1.5 mm) pupil, usually with a Single-Pass Four-Throw (SFT) suture technique. It works by blocking stray, light-scattering light and allowing only direct, central rays to reach the retina.” He added, “This procedure will help eradication of blindness without cornea transplantation.”
Vision Expansion: From Chennai to the World
Sharing expansion plans, he noted that a new landmark facility on Radhakrishnan Salai in Chennai will be ready within six months. The hospital chain, currently with 294 branches including Africa, plans to add 75 more within a year.
“We aim to reach the dream figure of 800 to 1000 branches in another five years,” he said.
Strengthening Retina Care Ecosystem
Dr Manoj Khatri, Organising Secretary, Reticon 2026, emphasised the urgency of advancing retina care.
“Diseases affecting the retina and vitreous are among the most significant causes of vision loss, making timely diagnosis, advanced treatment, and continuous clinical upskilling extremely important. Reticon 2026 has been designed to disseminate the latest knowledge and practical advancements in this rapidly evolving super specialty, enabling ophthalmologists to deliver better outcomes for patients,” he said.
He added, “The conference highlights include focused sessions on medical retina, surgical retina, wet labs, debates, panel discussions, and the Reticon Premier League, creating a dynamic platform for learning and interaction. By equipping healthcare professionals with current techniques, emerging technologies, and evidence-based approaches, we hope to strengthen retina care across India and beyond.”
