Retina and Vitreous Clinic as well as a well-equipped operating room for refractive surgeries opened in Torfeh Medical Center on 10 November 2014. In the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Hashemi, Iranian Minister of Health and Dr. Peivandi, Chancellor of Shahid Beheshti Medical University and President of Tehran Medical Council, made a speech.

Dr. Hashemi who is an ophthalmologist and pioneered in laser application in eye surgeries in Iran hailed the national medical breakthroughs specifically in the field of ophthalmology and said:"Laser assisted refractive & cataract treatment in Iran is in accordance with International Medical Standards."

He praised Shahid Beheshti Ophthalmologic Department and nominated it as one of the national glories in the field of medicine.

Speaking next, Dr. Peivandi said:"Regarding the diabetes prevalence in Iran and diabetic retinopathy, installation of such sub-specialized clinic in Torfeh Medical Center was strongly crucial."

He added:"it is my honor to announce that for the first time the EX500 excimer laser has been  installed in a public hospital and the first operation will be done by the Minister of Health."

Later, Dr. Hashemi made a laser assisted surgery to correct refractive error of a 25 years old nurse.

A laser is a device that emits light through a process of optical amplification based on the stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation.

The term "laser" is an acronym for "light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation." In recent years laser surgery, or laser refractive surgery, has become more popular as a way to correct eyesight.  The surgery usually involves reshaping the cornea – the transparent layer covering the front of the eye. This is done using a type of laser known as an excimer laser. Different techniques are used to correct short sight (myopia), long sight (hypermetropia), and astigmatism. 

Dr. Shima Naghavi, Director of International Affairs