At the 56th Polish Ophthalmologists Congress held in Krakow, Prof. Farhad Hafezi, MD, PhD, FARVO, ELZA’s Medical Director, and a global leader in corneal cross-linking and refractive surgery, took part in the 56th Congress of Polish Ophthalmologists held in Krakow from June 5 to 7, 2025. Representing ELZA, but also the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS), of which he is a board member, Prof. Hafezi delivered an important presentation on cutting-edge advances in keratoconus diagnosis and treatment during the congress’s international session.

During the Polish Ophthalmologists Congress, Prof. Hafezi highlighted the latest personalized approaches to corneal cross-linking, focusing on two innovative protocols: ELZA-PACE and ECO-CAIRS. ELZA-PACE is a second-generation customized cross-linking technique that uses topography-guided selective epithelial removal to enhance riboflavin penetration and optimize oxygen dynamics in the cornea. This targeted approach improves biomechanical stabilization while preserving epithelial zones, increasing treatment safety and effectiveness.

ECO-CAIRS modifies the Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments procedure by applying ultra-high-fluence extracorporeal cross-linking to donor ring segments before implantation. This biological reinforcement of the cornea offers new possibilities for keratoconus rehabilitation, enhancing structural integration and visual results.

Prof. Hafezi’s presentation emphasized the significance of tailoring treatment to the individual corneal profile, advancing personalized medicine in managing ectatic corneal diseases. His work at the ELZA Institute in Zurich continues to shape global standards by bridging rigorous research and clinical application.

Beyond his scientific contributions, Prof. Hafezi engaged deeply with Krakow’s cultural heritage. He visited the historic Wieliczka Salt Mines, where his grandfather worked as a salt miner over a century ago, and enjoyed traditional Polish dishes such as strawberry pierogi. He encouraged fellow attendees to explore Krakow’s unique cultural landmarks, including a rare female portrait by Leonardo da Vinci housed locally.

Prof. Farhad Hafezi’s participation in Krakow 2025 exemplifies a successful fusion of ophthalmic innovation and cultural connection, strengthening collaboration within Central and Eastern Europe’s ophthalmology community.