Advertisement

PentaVision

Ophthalmology Management

Article | 2025 American Academy of Ophthalmology Annual Meeting

FDA Approvals in Lasers Pick Up After Decade-Long Slump

From crickets to cacophony: AAO 2025 Refractive Surgery Subspecialty Day opens with an update from George Waring IV, MD, on platform performance and suggestions for surgeons.

Sarah Fackler, managing editor, Optometric Management
Ophthalmology Management October 17, 2025 Vol 29, Issue October 2025
5 Key Takeaways

  • 1

    FDA approvals for lasers have increased after a decade-long slump, with significant updates presented at the AAO 2025.

  • 2

    The last FDA approval for an excimer laser occurred in 2011, with the Alcon EX500 being the most recent.

  • 3

    Current lasers in the U.S. include B+L Teneo, Zeiss MEL 90, and Alcon EX500, all featuring high-speed repetition rates.

  • 4

    The Teneo laser offers a small footprint, high repetition rate, and does not require a nomogram adjustment for surgeons.

  • 5

    The Zeiss VisuMax 800 can cut a full lenticule in under 10 seconds, enhancing treatment efficiency and precision.