Amita Eye Care: From Pioneering Lens Implants to Advanced Vitreoretinal Excellence
Kerala, [India], September 25, 2025: When Dr. Amita Verghese and Dr. Verghese Joseph started their small eye clinic in 1990, Central Travancore had very few advanced eye-care facilities that later developed into Amita Eye Care. At the time, cataract surgery usually left patients dependent on thick glasses after lens removal. The couple were among the first in Kerala to introduce intraocular lens implantation, allowing patients to regain clear vision immediately after surgery.
Over the years, the clinic steadily grew. Retinal laser treatment was added in 1993, vitreoretinal surgery in 2000 with a DORC vitrectomy system, and neonatal ROP screening in 2006. In 2018, a modern 6,500-square-foot surgical complex with four laminar flow theatres was opened, bringing NABH pre-accreditation in addition to ISO 9001:2015 certification.
A New Era of Retina Care
In 2022, the practice entered a new phase with the launch of the C. V. Joseph Memorial Vitreoretinal Department at the International Tourist Complex, Thiruvalla. Two new consultants joined that year: Dr. Shishir Verghese, Vitreoretinal Surgeon, and Dr. Priya Basaiawmoit, Anterior Segment Specialist. The same year, the center achieved full NABH certification.
Today, under Dr. Shishir’s leadership, the Vitreoretinal Department is one of the most advanced in Central Kerala. The surgical suite is equipped with the Alcon Constellation vitrectomy platform and a full range of lasers, including Iridex green and yellow micro-pulse systems, diode laser, and laser indirect ophthalmoscopy. On the diagnostic side, the center has the Nidek Mirante multimodal imaging system and the Optopol Revo OCT-A platform, providing detailed imaging of retinal and choroidal conditions.
Leadership, Awards, and Innovation
Dr. Shishir Verghese, MS, FVRS, FICO (Retina), FAICO (Retina), has performed more than 2,000 complex vitreoretinal surgeries, covering diabetic vitrectomies, retinal detachments, and macular procedures. His surgical innovation, the “Glowport” illuminated trocar cannula, has been recognized internationally.
He has published over 45 papers in PubMed-indexed journals and regularly presents at conferences such as APVRS, EVRS, and EURETINA. His work has earned several national and international awards, including the Gotzaridis Trophy at the Bridge Retina Congress (2024, Alexandria), Best Surgical Video at APVRS (2024, Singapore), and the International Heroes in Ophthalmology Award at AIOC (2025, New Delhi).
Training and Community Impact
Amita Eye Care is also a center for training. Its phacoemulsification fellowship has trained more than 40 ophthalmologists, while diploma programs in optometry and ophthalmic technology support the region’s healthcare workforce.
In September 2025, the hospital introduced Central Travancore’s first LASIK and refractive surgery center. “We have always expanded as technology became available and affordable,” says Dr. Amita Verghese. “Our mission has never changed – to bring comprehensive eye care closer to home.
For more information, visit: www.amitaeyecare.com
