LONDON, September 8, 2026 — Alcon (SIX/NYSE: ALC), the global leader in eye care dedicated to helping people see brilliantly, will present its latest surgical innovations at the 44th Congress of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) in London, United Kingdom, from 11–15 September 2026. Alcon will showcase a portfolio of surgical innovations designed to meet the evolving needs of a growing cataract patient population, including Clareon^® PanOptix^® Pro, the European launch of Clareon^® TruPlus, and the UNITY^® Cataract System (CS). Together, these innovations advance IOL performance and drive greater efficiency across the cataract surgery workflow.

Alcon will also feature innovations across cataract, refractive, and glaucoma care, including UNITY^® M microscope, WaveLight^® Plus, Voyager^™ Direct Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (DSLT) and Hydrus^® Microstent. Nearly 40 studies and abstracts will also be featured throughout the congress.

“Surgeons today are being asked to deliver outstanding outcomes for more patients, with greater efficiency and consistency than ever before,” said Seba Leoni, President Surgical at Alcon International. “That is why our innovation strategy is focused not only on breakthrough technologies, but on how they work together in real clinical settings. At ESCRS 2026, Clareon PanOptix Pro and UNITY Cataract System (CS) showcase Alcon’s commitment to advancing the next generation of cataract surgery—from optical performance and visual quality to operating room (OR) workflow and superior procedural efficiency.”

Clareon PanOptix Pro: advancing optical performance across the full visual range

Building on the Clareon platform and the established Clareon PanOptix clinical profile, including its superior axial stability^{10,15-18, ‡, ‡‡, ¶} and low visual disturbances^{7, 8, ##} , Clareon PanOptix Pro is designed to provide more uninterrupted light distribution across the full visual range^{7, §§, #} . It delivers an unprecedented 94% light utilization for reduced light scatter^{††, ¶¶} — the highest reported of any trifocal IOL^{††, ¶¶, 7-14} and is designed for better image contrast^{△ 7-9}

New data presented at ESCRS 2026 will further characterize Clareon PanOptix Pro’s visual performance, patient-reported outcomes and optical quality:

• Dr. David Gunn will present the first prospective real-world evaluation of binocular visual performance and patient-reported outcomes following bilateral implantation of Clareon PanOptix Pro. E-Poster, On Demand
• A study by Dr. William Xu, presented by Dr. Kamal Das, will showcase bench data and virtual implantation (JenVis) comparing Clareon PanOptix Pro and TECNIS Odyssey^® , with findings supporting the optical performance of Clareon PanOptix Pro in the intermediate-to-near range, including image contrast and tolerance of halo and starburst. Poster, Podium 3
• Dr. Andrzej Dmitriew will present bench data evaluating the optical performance of Clareon PanOptix Pro, including findings supporting improved light utilization and enhanced optical quality in the distance-to-intermediate range while preserving performance at established focal points compared to Clareon PanOptix. E-Poster, On Demand

In an exclusive ESCRS 2026 symposium session, Clareon PanOptix Pro will be featured within the theme “Pushing Boundaries in Every Category,” including the session “Raising the Bar in FRoF IOLs: Clareon PanOptix Pro.” Details on the schedule are available at MyAlcon.com.

Clareon PanOptix Pro is commercially available in Europe and most Asian markets, with further rollout subject to local regulatory approvals.

At ESCRS, Alcon will also launch Clareon TruPlus in European markets, a novel enhanced monofocal IOL designed to deliver enhanced intermediate vision, without compromising distance vision. TruPlus is the latest addition to the Clareon Collection, featuring proprietary Opti-Balance^™ Technology which optimizes the curvature of the central optic to direct light to distance vision.

Together, Clareon PanOptix Pro and Clareon TruPlus reflect Alcon’s commitment to pushing boundaries across the IOL portfolio, with next-generation innovations designed to elevate visual outcomes and expand patient choice.

Advancing superior efficiency with UNITY Cataract System

Alcon will also spotlight UNITY Cataract System (CS) at ESCRS 2026 as a commercially available offering within its next-generation UNITY surgical equipment portfolio. Designed to deliver superior efficiency in cataract surgery^{22, ▲}, UNITY CS supports faster nucleus removal^▲▲ and improved OR efficiency.^{1-5,19,20, 22, ▲}

With cataract procedure volumes increasing and surgical teams facing continued workflow pressures, UNITY CS reflects Alcon’s focus on workflow-driven innovation. The system streamlines operating room turnover time^{***, 29} and expedites console set-up^{###, 1, 29}, designed for rapid vacuum rise with Intelligent IOP¹ that precisely controls and maintains the desired IOP setpoint^{†††, ‡‡‡, 1, 30} .

• UNITY^® 4D Phaco is a breakthrough ultrasound modality that delivers nucleus removal twice as fast as OZil^®¶ with 41% less energy delivered to the eye.^{3, 4, †} 
• Intelligent Sentry provides efficient active anterior chamber surge mitigation without losing followability using a proprietary sensor and dual-vent valve technology.² 
• UNITY^® Thermal Sentry is a first-of-its-kind handpiece that estimates the temperature at the incision site and regulates ultrasound power.¹

New data at ESCRS 2026 will further characterize UNITY VCS|CS performance across phaco efficiency, ultrasound energy delivery, anterior chamber stability and cataract surgery workflow. ^19,21 

• Dr. Ivo Ferreira will present bench data evaluating the novel 4D Phaco ultrasound modality of UNITY VCS|CS compared with traditional torsional ultrasound, with results showing improvements in lens removal efficiency alongside reductions in ultrasound energy delivered to the eye. Free Paper, Podium 1 
• Dr. Hisaharu Suzuki will present bench data supporting enhanced anterior chamber stability with UNITY VCS during simulated occlusion break events, particularly at lower intraocular pressure (IOP) settings. Free Paper, Podium 1 
• Research by Dr. Lawrence Woodard, presented by Li-Chen Pan, will showcase real-world data evaluating sterile-technician console interactions during cataract surgery setup, supporting the streamlined system design of UNITY. e-Poster, On Demand

Alongside UNITY CS, Alcon will highlight UNITY M, Alcon’s next-generation microscope, designed to deliver precise control to surgeons throughout the surgical procedure.^{24, 25} Alcon is also introducing UNITY GPS, a new, comprehensive image-guidance technology that seamlessly connects every step of the clinic-to-OR workflow^{26, ○} . In combination with SMARTCataract DX for cataract planning, UNITY GPS supports execution of the surgical plan in the operating room, helping surgeons optimize placement of IOLs^{26, 27} . The technology will be available in Japan and Italy later this month. Alcon rounds out its innovations with SMARTCataract DX, the easier solution for smarter planning^{¶¶¶, 23, 28} and Intelligent Service Solution (ISS) designed to maximize productivity with remote support.

Advancing scientific exchange and surgical education at ESCRS 2026

As part of its Medical Affairs program, Alcon will host peer-to-peer scientific exchange across IOLs, cataract and vitreoretinal surgery and glaucoma care. The program will include the European launch of the Alcon Science Expert Network, a new global initiative driving high-quality scientific engagement among healthcare professionals: 

• “Ray-Tracing-Guided LASIK: Principles and Clinical Outcomes,” led by David Allamby, MBChB, and Dr. med. Ben Asani, FEBO

In addition, Alcon will offer a range of expert-led educational sessions focused on IOL innovation, surgical technologies, and workflow efficiency, designed to help healthcare professionals translate innovation into clinical practice, including:

• “Alcon Eye to Eye – Changing the Game in IOLs: Ready to Go Pro”
• “UNITY Surgical Platform – From Vision to Impact in Clinical Practice”
• “Achieving Superior Efficiency in Cataract Surgery” ^§
• “UNITY CS case-based education: Management of a complex cataract case with 4D Phaco and Intelligent Fluidics”

For more information, healthcare professionals are encouraged to visit the Alcon booth at ESCRS (ExCel London C231 & C221), review the complete schedule of Alcon congress activities on MyAlcon.com and follow Alcon, MyAlcon and Alcon Science on LinkedIn for approved congress updates.

About Alcon

Alcon helps people see brilliantly. As the global leader in eye care with a heritage spanning over 75 years, we offer the broadest portfolio of products to enhance sight and improve people’s lives. Our Surgical and Vision Care products touch the lives of more than 260 million people in over 140 countries and territories each year living with conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, retinal diseases and refractive errors. Our more than 25,000 associates are enhancing the quality of life through innovative products, partnerships with Eye Care Professionals and programs that advance access to quality eye care. Learn more at www.alcon.com.

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§Compared to CENTURION and CONSTELLATION Vision Systems. Based on bench testing.

†Based on bench data.

*Trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

**Based on N=10 HPs, Artificial cataract lens IOP 55mmhg vacuum of 450 mmHg.

*** With a turnover time savings of 52.8 seconds per procedure, and 30 cataract surgeries performed daily by a single surgeon, a total of 26.5 minutes can be saved each day. Given that each surgery is allocated a 15-minute OR time block, this time savings—combined with the use of two ORs—allows for one additional surgery to be scheduled per day.

§§ Simulated photopic through-focus point spread function (light intensity [energy])—polychromatic. 

# Compared to Clareon PanOptix.

## Compared to Clareon PanOptix based on bench and vision simulator studies.

### Based on an adjusted multivariable regression analysis which resulted in a mean difference of - 229.4 seconds for console set-up with the UNITY VCS/CS^® console compared to CENTURION^™ Vision System with AS.

††Based on manufacturer reported values and respective methodology for trifocal IOLs including Clareon^® PanOptix^®, Envista Envy^, AT Elana^, Gemetric^ and Rayner^‡ In vitro comparison with enVista‡ MX60, TECNIS‡ 1-Piece, and Vivinex‡ XY-1 for axial displacement (n=5 IOLs per group, +20.0 D). Axial displacement was measured in vitro in deionized water at 35°C and was measured at multiple compression diameters (11.0, 10.5, 10.0, 9.5, and 9.0 mm). Games-Howell pairwise comparison (10 per IOL) (p≤0.005 for Clareon CNA0T0 versus enVista‡ MX60, TECNIS‡ ZCB00, or Vivinex‡ iSert XY-1 at all compressions).

†††Mean fluctuation at flow vs. setpoint of 2.36 ± 2.13, 4.19 ± 1.97, 1.84 ± 2.82, and 2.13 ± 2.86 mmHg during phacoemulsification, irrigation/aspiration (IA), vitrectomy, and extrusion/fragmentation, respectively.

‡‡‡IOP setpoint as low as 16 mmHg (posterior) and 20 mmHg (anterior) without exceeding a mean fluctuation of 4.19 ± 1.97 mmHg.

‡‡ In vitro measurement of axial displacement at compression diameters 11.0, 10.5, 10.0, 9.5, and 9.0mm for Clareon SY60WF, AcrySof SN60WF, enVista‡ MX60, and TECNIS‡ ZCB00; n=10 per group; p<0.005.

¶ Trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

¶¶ Compared to Clareon PanOptix. PanOptix has 88% light utilization (12% scatter light)/PanOptix Pro 94% light utilization (6% scatter light).

¶¶¶Compared to Alcon Vision Planner.

△ Compared to Clareon PanOptix.

▲ Based on the time and motion study conducted in the US (n=92 with UNITY VCS and n=87 with Constellation), on average 5.1 minutes efficiency gain was observed with UNITY VCS in overall OR workflow per vitreoretinal surgery over Constellation (P<0.05). UNITY VCS required on average 27.3 minutes per surgery while Constellation Vision System required on average 32.4minutes per surgery.

○ Based on ZEISS Callisto sw 3.7 - 09/2023.

▲▲Compared to OZil^®.

References

1. UNITY™ VCS and CS User Manual.
2. Alcon Data on File, 2024. REF-24644.
3. Alcon Data on File, 2024. REF-24379.
4. Alcon Data on File, 2024. REF-24615.
5. Alcon Data on File, 2024. REF-24576.
6. Alcon Data on file, 2026. ESCRS 2026 Alcon Supported Share of Voice Summary. REF-
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7. Alcon Data on file, 2025. REF-25218.
8. Alcon Data on file, 2024. REF-25221.
9. Alcon Data on file, 2015. REF-08546.
10. Lane S, Collins S, Das KK, et al. Evaluation of intraocular lens mechanical stability. J
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11. Rayner Professional Website. https://rayner.com/en/ioi/trifocal/rayone-trifocal/.
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14. Zeiss Cataract Insights: Laying the Myth or Reality; Digitalization enhances cataract
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15. Nuijts RMMA, Bhatt U, Nanavaty MA, Roberts TV, Peterson R, Teus MA. Three-year
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16. Walters TR, Lehmann R, Moyes A, French JW, Sreenivasan V, Modi SS. Rotational
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18. Alcon Data on File 2024. REF-25904.
19. Ferreira Rios I, Jia G, Yalamanchili S, Makari S. A Novel Ultrasound Modality versus
    Torsional Ultrasound: Comparison of Total Energy and Efficiency. ESCRS 2026 accepted
    abstract. London, 11-13 Sep 2026. Abstract ID in Program: FP21.10.
20. Suzuki H, Ong M, Yalamanchili S, Do S, Kurose M, Makari S. Anterior Chamber Stability
    of a Novel Phacoemulsification Machine via Intraoperative OCT and Surgical
    Microscope Videos. ESCRS 2026 accepted abstract. London, 11-13 Sep 2026. Abstract
    ID in Program: FP29.07.
21. Woodard L, Pan L-C. Real-World Assessment of Sterile Technician Console Interactions
    During Cataract Surgery Set-up: Impact of the Next Generation of Phacoemulsification
    System. ESCRS 2026 accepted abstract. London, 11-13 Sep 2026. Abstract ID in
    Program: POCAT283.
22. Alcon Data on File, 2025. REF-28170.
23. ARGOS^® Biometer User Manual.
24. UNITY M User Manual.
25. Alcon Data on File, 2026. REF-30087.
26. UNITY GPS User Manual 2025. REF-26480.
27. Haeussler-Sinangin Y, Dahlhoff D, Schultz T, Dick HB. Clinical performance in
    continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis creation supported by a digital image guidance
    system. J Cataract Refract Surg. 2017;43(3):348-352.
28. VERION^® Reference Unit User Manual Part I.
29. Alcon data on file, 2025. REF-28152.
30. Alcon data on file 2024. REF-24899.

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