The 44th Congress of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) will take place 11–15 September 2026 at Excel London, positioned along the River Thames. It is described as the “Queen of Hearts” of ophthalmology congresses, celebrating London as the birthplace of the first intraocular lens implantation.

The congress brings together global leaders in cataract and refractive surgery to showcase the latest advances in clinical practice, surgical innovation, and ophthalmic technology. Attendees can expect Main and Research Symposia, Arena Debates, the Global Refractive Symposium, 3D Surgical Microscope and AI Summit, ESCRS/EURETINA Symposium, Near‑Live Surgery, Instructional Courses, Wetlabs, Video Sessions, Posters, and Oral Presentations.

A major highlight is ESCRS iNovation® Day, now a high‑demand platform for emerging technologies and industry engagement. The 2026 meeting continues ESCRS’s commitment to excellence in research, education, sustainability, and social responsibility, building on recent leadership under Filomena Ribeiro. Organizers anticipate attendance and scientific output surpassing the successful 2025 Copenhagen congress