2025 has been a transformative period for ophthalmic care, with office-based surgery (OBS) moving to the forefront of the industry. Increased adoption, rigorous safety outcomes, and growing patient demand have all accelerated the shift toward OBS. In this year-end review, we reflect on the milestones achieved, the challenges faced, and the solutions shaping the future of eye care.
Office-Based Surgery Growth
The continued expansion of ophthalmic OBS is driven by technological advancements, proven safety profiles, economic pressures, and evolving patient expectations. According to the 2025 ASCRS Clinical Survey, 6% of surgeons perform surgery in an OBS suite – a notable increase from 2% the previous year.
iOR Suites have expanded to nearly 40 states and territories plus Europe and the Grand Cayman Islands. In addition, our existing practice partners continue to grow their OBS case volume year-over-year.
OBS Safety Outcomes
As part of our accreditation program, iOR Partners gathers comprehensive data on procedures performed in iOR surgical Suites®. Quarterly occurrence data from surgeries conducted across multiple centers and utilizing various techniques consistently demonstrates that our safety outcomes meet or surpass those of other outpatient settings.
| iOR Data 109,694 procedures updated September 2025 |
|
| Endophthalmitis | 0.017% |
| Unplanned Vitrectomy | 0.224% |
| Return to the OR |
0.047% |
| TASS or Significant Iritis | 0.040% |
| Referred to Hospital |
0.003% |
Industry Challenges in 2025
The eyecare landscape is facing disruptive challenges. From access to care and declining reimbursements to the rise of corporate consolidation, these issues are causing us to rethink how care is delivered and accessed. For eye care professionals, these challenges demand innovative solutions and proactive strategies to ensure both practice sustainability and patient experience remain at the forefront.
Financial Stability and Growth for OBS Practices
iOR Partners pioneered the OBS movement creating a path to physician-led care that is safe, efficient, and more accessible. While that vision remains, the challenges mentioned above have required a reimagined approach. This has led to a groundbreaking collaboration model that brings together ophthalmologists (MDs) and optometrists (ODs) – a first-of-its-kind partnership that benefits both patients and providers.
Earlier this year, Legacy Eyecare and Kugler Vision in Omaha, NE were the first to embark in this MD/OD OBS model which breaks down traditional barriers, offering:
Following this success, a second collaborative suite has opened in the Kansas City area with Ridgeview Eye Care and Durrie Vision and several others are in the works for 2026.
OBS Top News Stories
The industry is taking notice. Here are the top headlines featuring OBS this year:
Final Wrap Up
2025 has been a year of remarkable progress for OBS, marked by expanded adoption, proven safety outcomes, and innovative partnerships that are redefining the delivery of ophthalmic care. Despite industry challenges, the resilience and ingenuity of the eyecare community have paved the way for sustainable growth and improved patient experiences. As we look ahead to 2026, the momentum behind OBS continues to build, promising even greater advancements and opportunities. Together, we’re not just adapting to change—we’re leading it. Here’s to another year of innovation and success!